Whether you’re hitting the beach, paddling in the pool, or taking a dip in a lake, water shoes are a necessity to protect your feet from hot sand, sharp shells, and slippery surfaces.
But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which pair is right for you. Here are our 9 top tips for buying water shoes that will keep your feet happy and help you make the most of your time in the water.
Consider the Activity
The first thing to think about when choosing water shoes is what type of activities you’ll be using them for. If you’re mostly going to be in the pool, you can get away with a simpler design and thinner material. But if you’re planning on doing any hiking or scrambling over rocks, you’ll need something more robust.
Check the Drainage
All water shoes should have some form of drainage to help get rid of water and prevent your feet from getting too sweaty. But the type and amount of drainage will vary depending on the shoe.
Some have small holes in the sole, while others have large mesh panels. If you’re planning on doing any activities in deep water, make sure to choose a shoe with good drainage, so you don’t end up with soggy feet.
Think About the Fit
Just like regular shoes, it’s important to choose a pair of water shoes that fit well. But there are a few extra things to keep in mind when it comes to fit. First, make sure the shoe is snug but not too tight. You don’t want it to be so loose that it falls off in the water, but you also don’t want it to be so tight that it cuts off circulation to your feet.
Second, consider the material. Some water shoes are made with neoprene, which can stretch a bit and mold to your feet. Others are made with mesh, which is more breathable but might not be as comfortable if you have wide feet.
Finally, think about the closure. Some water shoes have laces, while others have Velcro straps. If you’re planning on doing any activities in the water, make sure to choose a shoe with a secure closure that won’t come undone.
Look for Comfort Features
When you’re spending all day in the water, comfort is key. So look for water shoes with features that will help keep your feet comfortable. Things like padding in the sole, a soft lining, and an adjustable strap can all make a big difference.
If you’re planning on doing any activities that require a lot of standing or walking, make sure to choose a shoe with good arch support to avoid foot pain.
Consider the Materials
The material of your water shoes is important for both comfort and durability. Most shoes are made from either neoprene or mesh. Neoprene is a thicker material that offers more protection from things like rocks and shells. But it can also be less breathable, which means your feet may get sweaty.
Mesh is much lighter and more breathable, but it doesn’t offer as much protection. If you’re not sure which to choose, consider the activity, you’ll be doing. If you’re mostly going to be in the water, mesh is a good option. But if you’re doing any hiking or scrambling, neoprene is a better choice.
Choose the Right Sole
The sole of your water shoes is important for both traction and protection. A thicker sole will offer more protection from things like rocks and shells, but it can also make the shoe heavier and less comfortable to walk in.
A thinner sole won’t offer as much protection, but it will be lighter and more flexible. Consider the activity you’ll be performing if you’re unsure which to select. If you’ll be mostly in the water, a thinner sole might be preferable. But if you’re doing any hiking or scrambling, a thicker sole is a better choice.
Consider the Style
The style of your water shoes is actually quite important. After all, you’ll be wearing them in public, so you’ll want to make sure they’re presentable. For example, if you’re planning on doing any activities in a resort area, you’ll probably want to choose something that looks more like a regular shoe.
On the other hand, if you’re planning on doing any activities in a more natural setting, you might want to choose a shoe with a more rugged look. Just make sure to choose something that you feel good about wearing in public.
Think About the Color
When buying water shoes, it’s important to think about the color. You want a shoe that will stand out in the water so that you can easily spot it if you drop it. A bright color will also help you to keep track of your feet while swimming.
In addition, a light-colored shoe will reflect heat better than a dark-colored shoe, keeping your feet cooler on hot days. The color of your shoes is really a matter of personal preference, so choose something that you like.
Price is Important, But Don’t Overspend
Finally, when buying water shoes, it’s important to consider the price. You don’t want to overspend on a pair of shoes that you’re only going to wear a few times. But at the same time, you don’t want to choose the cheapest option and end up with a pair of shoes that falls apart after a few uses.
The best way to find the right balance is to set a budget before you start shopping. That way, you can easily compare options and find the perfect pair of shoes without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Water shoes are a wonderful way to keep your feet safe while you swim or participate in other water-related activities. But with so many alternatives, it might be difficult to determine which option is the best for you.
By following the tips above, you can be sure to choose a pair of water shoes that will offer both comfort and protection. And most importantly, you’ll be able to find a pair that fits both your needs and your budget.