9 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.
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.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST SNEAKER STYLE BEACH SHOES
Women’s Literide 360 Pacer, $91.99 (down from $114.99) at Crocs
What You Should Know:
While not explicitly designed for water, these 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.
Five-star reviewers rave about their multipurpose uses and call them the “best shoes ever”.
“I wore these on a vacation in Europe that included waking, hiking, biking, swimming and wet rock/cave exploration. Normal water shoes wouldn’t have provided enough protection against the jagged rocks. These were perfect!” wrote one five-star review.
Astral Men’s Brewer 2.0, $217 at Amazon Australia
What You Should 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
What You Should 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, $25 at Decathlon
What You Should 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
What You Should 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.
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BCF Unisex Aqua Shoes 2.0 Black, $24.99 at BCF
What You Should 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, $79.99 at THE ICONIC
What You Should 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.
REEF Water Vista Slide, $79.99 at THE ICONIC
What You Should Know:
Unlike other shoes on this list, these ones might not be the best for a hike but they are a great option for waterproof beach shoes. If you love to walk along the water’s edge, do a gentle climb over some rocks to get to a secluded spot or simply after a more comfortable upgrade from your old pair of rubber thongs, this is the way to go.
Merrell Hydro Moc, $79.99 at THE ICONIC
What You Should Know:
This easy slip-on and off shoe are designed for trail hikes that take 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”.
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