8 best beach & water shoes of 2024, chosen by experts
Say goodbye to slips and falls with a brand new pair of water shoes that will keep your feet protected in all terrains.
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When it comes to the beach, most of us simply throw on a pair of thongs and away we go. But there is a whole world of water shoes out there that will definitely change the way you beach.
Designed for aquatic activities, beach (or water) shoes allow you to walk through wet environments while keeping your feet safe from any potential harm such as sharp rocks or shells. They’re also simply great for protecting your feet from hot sand. A pain many of us know all too well.
There are plenty of options on the market depending on your needs. From jogger like shoes to traditional styles and to sandal options, there is something for everyone including the Classic Croc loved by 11 billion on TikTok.
Prices are correct and products are in stock at time of publishing.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST SNEAKER STYLE BEACH SHOES
Echo Storm, $159.99 (down from $199.99) at Crocs
Crocs Echo Storm
What You Need To Know
While not explicitly designed for water, the Crocs Echo Storm shoes will keep your comfy no matter the activity. Featuring a plush foam footbed for ultimate support as well as a rubber outsole for added traction and durability, you will be kept stable in and out of the water. It also features ventilation holes for breathable functionality.
Five-star reviewers rave about their multipurpose uses and call them their “favourite everyday shoes”.
“I love my Echo Storm I literally wear them majority of the time because they are so cute and comfortable. I'm thinking of getting them in another color but I love walking in them honestly,” wrote one five-star reviewer.
Astral Men’s Brewer 2.0, $216.72-$289.95 at Amazon Australia
Astral Men's Brewer 2.0
What You Need To Know
If you’re after a shoe with a lot of grip, this is the way to go. Made from high performance G. 15 rubber outsole, these shoes are extra grippy and sticky so that when you’re climbing around slippery rocks you won’t have to worry.
Plus, they also feature a built-in Polygiene treated sockliner to eliminate odour as well as holes to drain water and quick drying canvas.
“It’s good looking, comfortable, durable, quick drying, lightweight yet substantial, and gives my feet the grip and protection I need when I get out of the boat,” wrote one five-star review.
TARRAMARRA Women Honeycomb Insole Water Shoes, $45 (down from $85) at UGG Express
TARRAMARRA Women's Honeycomb Insole Water Shoes
What You Need To Know
Made for comfort and durability in wet environments, these shoes have been ergonomically designed to mould around your feet for a better grip. Other features include a toe guard for protection against sharp rocks as well as a honeycomb-shaped insole for greater breathability and quicker drying.
“Non-slip, breathable, comfortable, and beautiful,” wrote one five-star review.
BEST TRADITIONAL BEACH SHOES
Subea Adult Elasticated Aquashoes 120, $20 at Decathlon
Subea Adult Elasticated Aquashoes 120
What You Need To Know
When you think of water shoes, something like this will probably spring to mind. But for good reason. These easy to slip on shoes features 5mm studded soles to prevent slipping as well as water drainage features to improve drying.
One five-star review wrote, “This is the first time I’ve worn sea shoes and they made such a difference! No painful hobbling over pebbles, just straight in (after a bit of getting use to the temperature!) and easy to swim in as well. Wish I’d bought some years ago.”
Body Glove Women’s Shore Aqua Sock Pink & Black, $29.99 at Anaconda
Body Glove Women’s Shore Aqua Sock
What You Need To Know
Another classic style water shoe, this pick is similarly extremely affordable and will last you years. From climbing over rocks to snorkelling and kayaking, whatever sort of water activity, these shoes have you covered.
“I bought these specifically for kayaking and they are perfect. They fit comfortably and allow me to carry the kayak up and down the bank without fear of slipping in wet sandals. They are also super comfortable to paddle and even swim in. 10/10,” wrote one five-star review.
BCF Unisex Aqua Shoes 2.0 Black, $24.99 at BCF
BCF Unisex Aqua Shoes 2.0 Black
What You Need To Know
This pair of versatile shoes work well on both water and land so that you can stay comfortable no matter the terrain. Made from lightweight, quick drying polyester and featuring a non-slip outsole, you’re sure to keep your footing on everything from rocks to sand and reefs to pebbles.
Five-star reviewers say these shoes “saved my feet” and that they are “very comfortable”.
BEST SANDAL STYLE BEACH SHOES
Crocs Classic Clogs – Unisex, $55.99 (down from $79.99) at THE ICONIC
Crocs Classic Clogs
What You Need To Know
We couldn’t not make a list of beach shoes and not include the iconic Crocs. The once ugly shoes have had a resurgence in popularity lately – the #crocs hashtag has over 11.7 billion views on TikTok.
Made from their unique Croslite construction with soft cushioning, Crocs are known for their insane comfort levels. The small holes are not only great for accessorising with Jibbitz but also help to shed excess water and adds breathability.
Merrell Hydro Moc, $79.99 at THE ICONIC
Hydro Moc
What You Need To Know
This easy slip-on and off shoe is designed for trail hikes that takes you in and out of the water. Made from a single-density injected EVA material with a contoured arch and strap for advanced support, these are like your classic sandals but better.
Reviewers rave about how comfortable these shoes are and say they are much “softer compared to other popular brands”. Some even compared the comfort level of the shoes to wearing Crocs.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING BEACH SHOES
When choosing beach shoes to include in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Grip: A pair of good beach and water shoes must have slip-proof soles as slipping can lead to injury.
Comfort: They must be able to protect feet, while being comfortable at the same time.
Design: It's best to find shoes with drainage holes or channels that allow water to escape as fast as possible, preventing the shoes from getting soaked. They should also be made of quick-drying materials such as breathable mesh, synthetic fabrics or neoprene.
Protection: A protective barrier between your feet and dangerous or surfaces is keep safe when stepping on rocks, shells and sea urchins, for example.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT ARE WATER SHOES?
Water - or beach- shoes are specially designed footwear to protect your feet during water-based activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, sailing and beach visits. They allow you to walk through wet environments while keeping your feet safe from any potential harm such as sharp rocks, reefs or shells.
They also protect feet from hot surfaces and add extra grip to prevent slips.
Water shoes usually feature quick-drying materials and are designed to let water flow out with ease so that your shoes don't sit sodden for long period of time.
HOW SHOULD I CLEAN AND MAINTAIN WATER SHOES?
It's important to look after your water shoes in order for them to last. First, make sure to take them straight out of your bag once home and give them a rinse in order to remove any salt, sand, or dirt.
Many water shoes are machine washable if they get particularly filthy, and then need to be air dried. Ensure you check the label on the shoes before putting them in the washing machine.
Looking for the best beach gear? Check out our guide to the best sand-free towels, our top picks of the best beach tents for sun protection and a beach umbrella that’s gotten more than 1500 5-star reviews.
Make sure you get the best deal on every purchase by visiting news.com.au Coupons, where you’ll find great offers on brands from ASOS to General Pants.
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