As a child of the ‘70s and ‘80s, I grew up running around barefoot. Fast forward 30 years, and not much has changed; however, when I absolutely have to wear shoes, I reach for an option from my extensive selection of hiking sandals and water shoes. Being on or near water is in my DNA, and as a former rafting and sea kayak guide, I have worn both types of shoes while venturing across six continents (including Antarctica, although I admit I only wore them on the ship).
With decades of experience across a broad range of activities under my belt, I know for a fact that adventure doesn’t end where the trail meets water—it only gets more exciting. Whether you’re navigating rocky riverbeds, chasing waterfalls, or exploring tidal pools off the beaten path, the right footwear can make or break your journey. Water shoes and hiking sandals are built for these moments, as they’re designed to grip slippery surfaces, dry quickly, and keep your feet protected through every splash, scramble, and stride.
But with so many options out there, finding the perfect pair can feel like navigating rapids without a paddle. No matter where the water takes you, I’ve got you—and your feet—covered with 9 of my favorite water shoes, below. You’ll find my favorite styles from brands like Hoka, The North Face, Teva, and more.
Best Water Shoes Overall
Keen Newport H2 Water Sandal
Amazon
Keen Newport H2 Water Sandal
Amazon
Not that anyone is counting, but I have approximately a dozen pairs of Keen shoes and sandals in my closet right now. Of all of the Keen models I own, my Keen Newport H2 Sandals might just be my favorite from the brand. I slip them on for a quick casual bike ride, wear them to the beach, and keep them in my car as a go-to pair for just about any impromptu adventure. They are easily recognizable thanks to their iconic closed‑toe design, which shields your toes from stubbing. They have a quick‑dry webbing and hydrophobic lining that both help the sandal shed water quickly, while also resisting odor from repeated wear. With so many color options to choose from, you can find a pair that best suits your personal style.
Hoka Hopara 2 Hiking Sandal
Zappos
Hoka Hopara 2 Hiking Sandal
Hoka
Hoka sneakers are the shoes that you didn’t know that you needed—that is, until you wear them for the first time. You can walk into any restaurant, business, or doctor’s office, and you will likely spot someone wearing a pair of the brand’s running shoes. While I was skeptical of them at first, they truly are comfortable. It’s no wonder that podiatrists, nurses, and folks who are on their feet all day swear by them.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Hoka Hopara 2 is the perfect adventure sandal for days that call for a mix of trail hiking, river crossings, and casual touring. They’re designed for travelers who want to combine the brand’s plush cushioning with rugged utility. The adjustable heel strap is a game-changer, while the single-pull toggle lace ensures a snug, secure fit. If you’re after a shoe that transitions seamlessly from trail to water and back again, this is a strong contender.
Chaco Z/2 Rapid Pro Adjustable Strap Sandal
Amazon
Chaco Z/2 Rapid Pro Adjustable Strap Sandal
REI
Not to sound biased, but I have been wearing Chaco sandals religiously since the late 1990s. For over two decades, I’ve been sporting a perpetual Z-shaped tan line on my feet. I have worn these sandals on five continents for travel, hiking, watersports, and more. Once, I even backpacked for four days through a riparian ecosystem (we spent ninety percent of our time walking in water) in Arizona—all while wearing Chacos.
In the early days of the brand, there were only two options to choose from: with or without the toe loop. Now, the brand sports a wider array of footwear, while the strappy Z models remain the flagship design. The Chaco Rapid Pro Sandal features a grippy Vibram outsole that is ideal for extreme water adventures but also transitions well from river to trail. These hiking sandals, including various other Chaco iterations over the years, have provided a reliable platform for my adventures. While my Chacos might be my go-to, I also wear a wide array of water shoes from other brands, as no two adventures are exactly the same.
The North Face Platte Canyon Water Shoes
The North Face
The North Face Platte Canyon Water Shoes
The North Face
“Never Stop Exploring” has been a tagline for The North Face for some time, and that inspiring mantra is mirrored in its gear, apparel, and footwear. These Platte Canyon Water Shoes are built for versatility and adventure, whether you’re navigating rocky streams, paddleboarding, or exploring wet trails. Designed with outdoor performance in mind, these shoes feature quick-drying closed-uppers to shield against debris and integrated drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. With a grippy outsole and supportive fit, they seamlessly transition from land to water, offering all-day comfort and protection no matter where your journey takes you.
Teva Hydratrek Closed-toe Water Sandal
Zappos
Teva Hydratrek Closed-toe Water Sandal
Teva
I procured my very first pair of adventure sandals—originally called “utility sandals”—in the late 1980s. After releasing their first line of utility sandals that decade, Teva (Hebrew for “nature”), became the de facto brand for the style. Since those humble beginnings more than 40 years ago, Teva has expanded its sandal offerings immensely.
The Teva Hydratek Closed-toe Water Sandal is your go-to companion for rugged water adventures where protection and comfort matter most. Let’s face it: Some activities are easier to enjoy when your toes have a little bit of extra protection. Built with a durable, quick-drying upper and a closed-toe design, this water sandal shields your feet from rocks, roots, and unexpected terrain while still allowing water to drain freely. And if you are looking for an open-toed version, consider the Teva Hydratrek Water Sandal, which boasts the same basic design with less coverage.
Xero Aqua X Sport Water Shoes
Amazon
Xero Aqua X Sport Water Shoes
Amazon
When I got my first pair of the Xero Aqua X Sport shoes, I was immediately transported back to 1984, lacing up a pair of low-top racing shoes as a high school track participant. But unlike those antiquated low-profile shoes, these shoes blend barefoot freedom with water‑ready performance.
As I have previously mentioned, I have been a sea kayak guide for over two decades. Bulky footwear can impede mobility when your heel is on the bottom of the kayak, and can force a tight fit when placing your feet on the underside of the deck. These light and flexible adventure shoes, however, are ideal for kayaking—and paddling, beach walks, or any other impromptu trek involving water. They are designed with an ultra‑breathable, drainable mesh upper and non‑absorbent lining, plus toe‑guard drain holes.
Astral Loyak Water Shoes
REI
Astral Loyak Water Shoes
REI
On hot summer days along the South Carolina coast, I often prefer to stand up paddleboard (SUP) while barefoot. I prefer the feel of my feet in close contact with the deck of my SUP; but given the presence of visible (and sometimes invisible) oyster beds, this isn’t an ideal choice. In order to protect my feet, I often compromise with a sleek, high‑performance water shoe that doubles as a stylish everyday slip‑on—and the Astral Loyak is just the shoe for the job.
Crafted from hydrophobic canvas and stretchy mesh, this shoe dispels water fast through drainage holes at the toe and heel, keeping your feet light and dry, even after submerging them in water. The rubber outsole features razor siping that grips slick rocks and slippery boat decks with confidence. The zero‑drop footbed and wide toe box deliver a barefoot-like ground feel and natural comfort, and the versatile style makes them suited for a wide variety of activities. I have worn these shoes on extended SUP trips in Germany and Newfoundland, and have walked straight to dinner in them in small German towns along the Mosel River.
Merrell Maipo Explorer Aerosport Hiking Shoe
Zappos
Merrell Maipo Explorer Aerosport Hiking Shoe
Merrell
Hands down, Merrell has the widest range of outdoor shoe offerings than any other brand in this roundup. They produce everything from sturdy hiking boots to walking shoes for casual urban endeavors, and the Merrell Maipo Explorer Aerosport hiking shoe falls somewhere in the middle of those two. It’s a lightweight, water-ready trail runner suited for warm, wet days when breathability, drainage, and grip matter. It features a quick‑dry mesh and synthetic upper with a bellows tongue to keep out debris, plus a rugged lug pattern that helps water escape, so you stay stable while traversing wet trails and river crossings. As someone who’s living and thriving in the Deep South, where heat and humidity ruthlessly rule the days, these shoes are perfect for a trail run. Sometimes, I’ll wear socks with mine, but usually I go sockless, in order to take advantage of the extra breathability and drainage potential.
OluKai ‘Ahi
I first discovered Hawaii-based footwear brand OluKai about 15 years ago when I was looking for a dressier sandal solution to complement my Hawaiian shirt phase (which, truth be told, has become a consistent look of mine). Fast forward a few years, and I discovered that they had more styles to offer outside of beach flip-flops. Case in point? The OluKai ‘Ahi, a water shoe that blends coastal elegance with practical performance. This water-friendly sneaker has a drop heel that transforms it into a slide, and was built for anglers, boaters, and coastal adventurers who demand both function and comfort. Its lightweight mesh upper sheds droplets effortlessly, while cleverly-placed drainage windows move water out just as quickly—so you can stay dry and light on your feet no matter how much water Mother Nature throws your way.
Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.