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Not sure where to buy water shoes for your next kayaking trip or beach vacation? Check out our top picks for the best places to buy water shoes for men, women, and kids.
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Introduction
There are a lot of different places to buy water shoes, and it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few tips on how to find the perfect pair of water shoes for your next adventure.
First, consider what type of activity you’ll be doing. Are you looking for something light and breathable for a day hike, or something more heavy-duty for whitewater rafting? Once you’ve determined the type of shoe you need, you can start narrowing down your options.
If you’re looking for a lightweight option, REI is a great place to start. They carry a range of water shoes from different brands, including Keen and North Face. For something more heavy-duty, try Cabela’s or Bass Pro Shops. They carry durable water shoes from brands like Columbia and Salomon.
Once you’ve decided on the type of shoe you need and the store you want to buy from, it’s time to start trying on different pairs. Pay attention to the fit, as well as the level of support and traction each pair offers. Make sure you walk around in the shoes before making your final decision – you want to be sure they’re comfortable enough to wear all day.
Why You Need Water Shoes
Whether you’re hitting the beach, going for a swim, or exploring a new trail, water shoes are a necessary piece of gear. Water shoes protect your feet from hot sand, sharp rocks, and rough terrain. They also help you move more easily through water.
There are many different types of water shoes on the market, so it’s important to choose the right pair for your needs. If you’re an avid fisherman, for example, you’ll want to invest in a pair of wading boots that will keep your feet dry and comfortable while you’re standing in the river.
If you’re planning to spend most of your time in the water, however, you might want to opt for a lighter pair of shoes with drainage holes that will help keep your feet cool and comfortable. No matter what type of water shoe you choose, be sure to buy a pair that fits well and provides adequate support for your ankles and arch.
The Benefits of Water Shoes
Water shoes are a great investment for anyone who loves spending time outdoors, especially if you enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, or swimming. They protect your feet from hot pavement, sharp rocks, and slippery surfaces, and they can even help prevent blisters and other injuries.
Some water shoes even have special features like drainage holes to help keep your feet dry, and built-in arch support to improve comfort. Best of all, they’re usually very affordable — so there’s no excuse not to pick up a pair before your next outdoor adventure!
How to Choose the Right Water Shoes
Choosing the right water shoes is important for a comfortable and enjoyable experience while participating in water activities. There are many factors to consider when choosing water shoes, including the type of activity, the length of time you will be in the water, the temperature of the water, and your own personal style preferences.
Type of activity: The type of activity you plan to do in your water shoes will be the biggest factor in determining which shoes are right for you. Some activities, such as kayaking or canoeing, require more protection than others, such as swimming or stand-up paddleboarding. If you plan to do multiple activities, it may be best to choose a versatile shoe that can work for all of them.
Length of time: If you only plan to be in the water for a short period of time, such as during a quick dip at the beach, you won’t need as much protection as someone who plans to spend hours in the water. In general, the longer you plan to be in the water, the more protection you will need from your shoes.
Temperature of water: The temperature of the water you will be in will also affect your choice of water shoes. If you plan to be in warmer waters, such as during a tropical vacation, you won’t need as much protection as someone who plans to be swimming in colder waters. Colder temperatures require more insulation to keep your feet warm.
Your own personal style preferences: Water shoes come in a wide variety of styles, so it’s important to choose a pair that fits your own personal style preferences. Do you want something that is sporty and functional? Or something that is stylish and fashionable? There are many different options available so take some time to find a pair that you really love.
The Different Types of Water Shoes
One of the most important things you need to consider when going on any outdoor adventure is what type of footwear to bring. Hiking boots are great for long walks on uneven terrain, but they’re not going to do you much good if you find yourself wading through a stream. That’s where water shoes come in.
Water shoes are a type of footwear specifically designed for use in or around water. They’re usually made from quick-drying materials like mesh or neoprene, and they often have a drainage system built into the soles to help get rid of any water that does manage to seep in. Some water shoes even have built-in toes and heels caps for added protection against sharp rocks or shells.
There are three main types of water shoes: aqua socks, sandals, and booties. Aqua socks are the simplest type of water shoe, and they’re really just glorified swim socks. They slip on like regular socks, but they’re usually made from some kind of quick-drying fabric like neoprene. Aqua socks don’t offer much in the way of protection, but they’re extremely lightweight and easy to pack, which makes them a good choice for activities like kayaking or SUPing.
Sandals are the next step up from aqua socks in terms of both protection and support. Most sandals have some kind of strap that goes around your ankle or mid-foot to keep them securely in place, and some even have toe straps as well. The straps on sandals can be made from anything from nylon webbing to leather, and they can be adjustable or non-adjustable. Sandals also tend to have more robust soles than aqua socks, which makes them ideal for activities like hiking through stream beds or paddling around rocky shores.
Booties are basically sandals with a little bit more material extending up over the ankle. Like regular sandals, booties usually have some kind of strap that goes around your ankle or mid-foot for added support, but the additional material makes them a better choice for activities where you might encounter sharp objects or debris in the water. Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding are all good examples of activities where booties would be a good choice.
The Best Water Shoes for Different Activities
Water shoes are an essential piece of gear for any water-based activity, whether you’re swimming, hiking, or just playing in the waves. But with so many different types and styles of water shoes on the market, it can be tough to know which pair is right for you.
Here’s a quick guide to the different types of water shoes available, and what activities they’re best suited for:
-Aquatic shoes: These are the most basic type of water shoe, and they’re typically made from quick-drying materials like neoprene or mesh. They’re ideal for activities like swimming, boating, or stand-up paddleboarding where you don’t need a lot of ankle support.
-Hiking shoes: Hiking shoes are designed to provide support and stability on rugged terrain, and they often have features like reinforced toes and lugs on the soles for traction. They can be used for light hiking in wet conditions, but they’re not ideal for swimming or other activities where you’ll be submerged.
-Trail running shoes: Trail running shoes are similar to hiking shoes, but they’re usually lighter weight and have more padding to protect your feet from roots and rocks. They can be used for light hiking or trail running in wet conditions, but they may not provide enough support if you’re carrying a heavy backpack.
-Cross training shoes: Cross training shoes are designed for activities like gym workouts, aerobics, or dance class. They usually have a lot of cushioning to protect your feet and ankles from impact, and they may have extra support features like a sturdy heel counter. While some cross training shoes can be used for light workouts in the water, they’re not ideal for swimming or other activities where your feet will be submerged.
How to Care for Your Water Shoes
Assuming you’ve already chosen the perfect pair of water shoes for your next adventure, it’s important to know how to properly care for them. With a little bit of effort, your water shoes can last for many seasons of use.
Here are a few tips on how to care for your water shoes:
-Rinse them off with fresh water after each use.
-Allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
-If they start to smell, sprinkle some baking soda inside and let them sit overnight. In the morning, just shake out the baking soda and they should smell fresher.
-Store them in a cool, dry place when they’re not being used.
following these simple tips, your water shoes will stay in great condition and be ready for your next adventure!
FAQs About Water Shoes
Q: Do I need water shoes?
A: That depends on your activity. If you’re planning on doing any swimming, wading, or snorkeling, water shoes will protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral. They also provide traction on slippery surfaces and can help prevent blisters and other types of foot injuries.
Q: Can I use my regular sneakers as water shoes?
A: No. Sneakers are not designed to get wet and will quickly start to fall apart if they’re constantly exposed to water. Water shoes are made from quick-drying materials that won’t hold onto moisture, which helps keep your feet comfortable and helps prevent blisters.
Q: What are the different types of water shoes?
A: There are three main types of water shoes: barefoot shoes, aqua socks, and sandals. Barefoot shoes have no heel or arch support and resemble a glove for your foot. Aqua socks are like a cross between a sock and a shoe, with a thin sole that provides some protection against sharp objects. Sandals have an open design with a straps that go over the top of your foot or around your ankle.
Q: How do I know what size water shoe to buy?
A: Water shoes should fit snugly but not be too tight. You want them to be tight enough that they won’t fall off but not so tight that they’re cutting off circulation or causing discomfort. Most brands offer size charts on their websites to help you find the right fit.
Conclusion
Shopping for water shoes doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little research and the tips in this guide, you can find the perfect pair of shoes for your next aquatic adventure, whether you’re exploring a tide pool or taking a dip in the pool. With so many options on the market, there’s sure to be a pair of water shoes that fit your needs.
Further Reading
If you’re interested in reading more about water shoes, check out our other articles:
-The 8 Best Water Shoes of 2020
-The 7 Best Men’s Water Shoes of 2020
-The 7 Best Women’s Water Shoes of 2020
