Top 12 Best Shoes for Kayaking in 2022
Kayaking is a fun and adventurous watersport that you can try. It allows you to explore the waterscape around you as you paddle the canoe-like boat called a kayak.
On the other hand, you have to equip yourself with the right gear for kayaking. This includes the best shoes for kayaking.
The kayak shoes will provide you stability, versatility, and protection from hazards in the water. They will offer benefits rather than going barefoot.
If you are always kayaking, then it is good to invest in a breathable pair of kayaking shoes. They can make your feet comfortable, dry, and weatherproof.
In line with our goal to provide you with insights into outdoor activities, we would like to present the top 12 best shoes for kayaking that can make your kayaking more enjoyable. You may take a look at their features and opt for the best ones that are suitable for your needs.
Table of Contents
3 Reasons Why You Should Wear Kayak Shoes
Some people kayak barefoot. However, we recommend that a paddler should wear kayak shoes because of the following reasons:
1. Better grip
Wet surfaces are slippery. You might hurt if you slip. To prevent this from happening, you must wear kayak shoes that have a better grip on slippery surfaces.
Also, you will have a reliable grip as you place your legs and feet in front. They will keep you balanced sitting on the kayak.
2. Protect your feet
The right kayak shoes will protect your feet from foot injuries caused by any hazards in the water. Also, they will give support to your ankles and feet.
In one instance, you fall in the water, you do not know what is in there. It might be metals that can injure your feet or some sharp objects.Â
Also, when you portage your kayak, you need shoes to protect your feet from rocks and other harmful elements.
3. Warm your feet
Normally, your feet might get wet and make your feet cold. You will not be comfortable paddling. The kayak shoes will keep your feet warm resulting in pleasant and cozy kayaking.
Types of Shoes You Should Wear in Kayaking
The following are types of shoes that are great options for the best shoes for kayaking. They can make you safe and comfortable. Also, they have their own best use and limitations too.
- Water Shoes
Water shoes are often used for kayaking. They are constructed from mesh. Also, they have a hard sole for preventing cuts and abrasions when you walk in rocky and wet places.
They also have small holes at the sides or bottom of the sole for easy water drainage. It makes your feet dry quickly. Often, kayakers do not wear socks when they use water shoes.
2. Athletic Shoes
Athletic shoes such as tennis shoes, and running shoes are also good for kayaking. The running shoes are made from nylon mesh or polyester, which are breathable materials.
Also, they can warm and dry your feet while kayaking because of their quick-drying materials. With this, you will be comfy while paddling the kayak.
3. Water Sandals
Water sandals are different from flip-flops. These sandals are designed for wet and slick surfaces. They have the traction that allows a kayaker to pass through the water.
Also, they are not closed-toe like the water shoes. They are not also easily worn out as you dive in and out of the water. Besides, they protect the soles of your feet while you are paddling or swimming.
4. Crocs
Crocs are also ideal for kayaking and other water activities. They have good water drainage because they have holes that make the water drain.
They are also made from materials that make them float. They help in controlling and retrieving in and out of the water.
Things to Consider in Choosing Kayak Shoes
Here are some things you need to take into account when choosing the best shoes for kayaking:
- Traction & Support
How good are the traction and support of the kayak shoes? The traction of the kayak shoes must be optimal and efficient on slippery surfaces like decks, boat docks, and water equipment.
Also, consider how good is the grip of the rubber soles on wet surfaces. Choose kayak shoes with good traction and support to avoid slip and fall.
2. Materials
Choose materials that are breathable, light, flexible, and quick-drying. Neoprene is one of these materials. It can also keep your feet warm while kayaking.
Other good materials are synthetic mesh, polyester, nylon, and Lycra. These are breathable materials and can keep the water out fast of the kayak shoes.
Do not opt for shoes that retain the water for a long period. Choose kayak shoes that have high breathability and good air circulation that can dry your feet faster.
3. Size
Having the right size of kayak shoes that fit your feet will make you comfortable while kayaking. If they are too big, they might slip off your feet.
Meanwhile, you cannot move freely with small size. Also, you might acquire blisters. To have the right fit, you must know your size and check it on the manufacturer’s size.
4. Weight
The kayak shoes you choose must be lightweight. This is to avoid a heavy load when you soak your shoes in water. The water adds load already to your shoes.
If you are heavy, you cannot have a good paddle. It will also exhaust you much resulting in spoiled kayaking.
Top 12 Best Shoes for Kayaking in 2022
We have listed the following best shoes for kayaking in 2022 that we believe acquired the characteristics of good kayak shoes:
The efficient thermal protection of the Neo-Sport Premium water boots makes it just right on top of our list. Many kayakers and divers like these water boots because they can keep their feet warm.
These water shoes are made from neoprene, which is a material known for its good water-resistant. They can also endure harsh weather conditions and snow, sunlight, sand, oxidation, and dust.
What we also like with these neoprene boots is that they have this water-entry barrier that prevents water from flowing easily into the boot.
They also have durable soles with a durometer of 40, which is hard. You can wear them on the docks or boardwalks. They will not tear easily.
Also, they are equipped with high traction soles perfect in boat decks, wet surfaces, and sandy beaches. You will definitely feel comfortable in and out of the water with neoprene water shoes.
Product Specs:
- Product Weight: 1.45 pounds
- Material: Synthetic/ Neoprene
- Size: Men 10/ Women 11
- Thickness: 3mm for warm water; 5mm for moderate water; 7mm for cold water
Pros:
- Protects your feet in the water
- Made from hard, and durable Neoprene
- Provides thermal protection
- Keeps your warm feet
- With high traction
- Features water-entry-barrier
Cons:
- The zipper is not that strong and heavy
This Neo-Sport Premium water boot is of good construction and of the best material that is perfect for kayaking. You can also use it in diving, swimming, and other water sports activities.
2. Mares Ankle Water Boots
The Mares Ankle Water Boots are one of the finest water shoes for kayaking. This is because they have high traction. They work well on boat docks and on the uneven rocky entry.
These ankle water boots can protect your feet from unfriendly and rough entry on beaches or lakes. Besides, the soles are thick and of high quality.
Another good thing about these water shoes is that they are made from neoprene. This material has outstanding physical toughness. So, you can tell how durable these water shoes are.
They will not wear easily. And you can use them for a longer period.
What makes these shoe ideal for kayaking is that their material is water-resistant. It is also flexible to various temperatures.
Product Specs:
Material: Neoprene
Type: Ankle Water Boot
Thickness: 2 millimeter
User: Unisex
Pros:
- High traction
- Durable and has a good water-resistant
- The rubber soles are thick
- Can be used for a longer period
- Non-slip rubber sole
Cons:
- The sizes are quite large, so you have to size down one size for a better fit
The Mares Ankle Water Shoes are of good quality. They are also comfy to wear because of their lightweight Neoprene material.
3. Cressi Water Boots
Cressi, an Italian manufacturer of water sports footwear since 1939, comes up with another quality water boots. The Cressi water boots have the components that can stand the conditions while having water sports activities like kayaking, scuba diving, and swimming, among others.
These water boots are made from lightweight neoprene, which is also known as the best material for water shoes. What we like about these water shoes is that they can keep your feet warm.
They are well-constructed and have a good grippy sole. They also have two holes on each water boot for drainage.
There is a strong zipper from the sole to the ankle for easy wearing. However, the zipper is placed on the inside of the shoes, which we think is the downside of these water boots.
Meanwhile, the sole is constructed from rubber, which is anti-slip and suitable for wet surfaces. Also, the rubber sole can endure a rocky environment.
Product Specs:
- Material: Neoprene and Rubber for the sole
- Thickness: 5 mm and 7 mm
- Weight: 1.59 pounds
- Dimensions: 11.4 x 13.5 x 3.6 inches
- User: Unisex/Adult
Pros
- Comfy to wear because of Neoprene material
- Durable and can be used for many years
- Have a good grippy and anti-slip sole
- Well-constructed and sewn well
Cons
- The zipper is inside of the water boots
Generally, the Cressi water boots provide comfort while kayaking as they can keep your feet warm. Also, they offer protection as you portage in sandy or rocky environments because of their thickness and strong rubber soles.
4. Mishansha Water Shoes
These fashionable Mishansha water shoes are not only visually appealing but serve their purpose well. These are ideal for kayaking, boating, sailing, swimming, and windsurfing, among others.
They are constructed from lightweight Lycra material, which is breathable, wear-resistance, salt-resistance, stretchable, and flexible.
It has an anti-slip camo rubber sole with several holes at the bottom. The sole padding and rubber sole help the water flow out quickly and dry the shoes fast.
Also, it has a pull tap at the heel for easy on and off. Meanwhile, the elastic straps make the water shoes fit on your feet.
Another plus factor of these water shoes is that they have cross ventilation for better breathability. On the other hand, we think they are not suitable for wider feet because of the shape and contour of these water shoes.
Product Specs:
- Material: Ultra-light Lycra material
- Package Weight: 9.59 ounces
- User: Unisex- Adult
- Package Dimensions: 10 x 4.2 x 2.4 inches
Pros
- Salt-resistance, wear-resistance, flexible, breathable
- With thick and anti slip camo rubber sole with holes for fast drainage
- Equip with pull tap and elastic straps for easy on and off
- With cross ventilation for better breathability
Cons
- Not suitable for wider feet
Overall, Mishansha water shoes are cool and trendy water shoes that are suitable for watersports activities such as kayaking. They have satisfactory materials that help the kayaker comfortable in kayaking.
5. DLGJPA Water Shoes
The breathability of the DLGJPA water shoes is what makes it on our list. They are constructed from lightweight mesh with a midfoot webbing system that makes them more breathable.
They provide comfort for any watersports activities including kayaking. These water shoes are also athletic shoes that are ideal for other sports activities.
The soles are made from flexible rubber and provide stability and comfort too. They also have good drainage and dry quickly when expose to water.
Product Specs:
Materials: Ultra-lightweight fabric and mesh
Sole: Flexible and heavy rubber
Closure Type: Slip-on
Weight: 7.05 ounces
Dimensions: 12.01 x 8.15 x 2.83 inches
User: Adult men
Pros:
- With breathable and lightweight material
- Good drainage and quick-drying
- Comfy to wear
- With a strong rubber sole
Cons:
- Not for people with wide feet
If you are looking for super comfy water shoes, the DLGJPA is the right one for you. They have a lightweight, soft, and durable fabric and mesh material that can make your kayaking enjoyable and comfortable.
6. Crocs Water Sandals
When it comes to quality and unique material for water shoes, the Crocs water sandals have it. The Crocs water sandals are made from Croslite, which is a closed-cell resin and made from polymer.
They are extremely comfortable to wear because the material is ultra-lightweight. Also, they have odor-resistant and non-marking qualities that most Crocs lovers like.
They have ventilation ports that help remove water and make them more breathable too. Besides, they have high traction because of the flex grooves on the outsoles. However, small rocks or debris might enter the holes, which can make you uneasy.
Product Specs:
- Material: Croslite material
- Weight: 6 ounces
- User: Adult men
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight and comfortable Croslite material
- With good drainage
- Equipped with ventilation ports
- High traction because of the flex grooves on the outsoles
Cons
- Small debris might enter the holes on Crocs water sandals
In general, the Crocs water sandals are one of the most comfortable water shoes for kayaking. This is because of their Croslite material, which is made from polymer that derives from crude oil.
7. VIFUUR Water Sports Shoes
If you are a kayaker looking for super comfy shoes, then the VIFUUR water shoes are the ones you need. These water shoes have cool materials derived from smooth, soft, and breathable fabric.
Even though they are lightweight and quite thin, they can protect you as you walk from the rocky beachfront or other unfriendly surfaces. This is because they have high-quality rubber soles that protect your feet from rocky, debris, or sharp things.
These water shoes’ downside is that they might not provide enough protection when you walk with large stones or obstacles. On the other hand, they are pretty comfortable in watersports such as kayaking.
Product Specs:
- Material: Breathable fabrics and strong rubber for sole
- Weight: 7.05 ounces
- Dimensions: 12.17 x 5.39 x 1.93 inches
- User: Unisex/Adult
Pros
- Smooth and breathable fabric material
- Quality rubber soles
- Protect feet from unfriendly surfaces
- Comes in different sizes for men and women
Cons
- Do not have much protection when walking on surfaces with bigger stones and debris
Overall, the VIFUUR water shoes are like socks with a strong sole that can make your kayaking super comfy. Besides, you can also use them for running, surfing, yoga, and other outdoor activities.
8. Crocs Classic Clog
Crocs Classic Clog is one of the favorites and best sellers for any watersports activities like kayaking. These shoes are good for kayaking because the material they are constructed is water-resistant.
This material is known as Croslite, which is soft yet durable. They also dry fast when water penetrates the Crocs.
Another good thing about Crocs is that you can use them on surfaces with large or small rocks and other debris. They can protect your feet from any injuries from stones.
They are also slip-on so you can take them on and off easily. Besides you can clean them fast by using soap and water.
Product Specs:
Materials: Croslite material and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate sole
Shaft Dimension: 8 inches from arch
Heel Dimension: 0.68 inches
User: Unisex/Adult
Weight: 3.8 ounces
Dimension: 9.2 x 7.5 x 3.2 inches
Pros:
- Durable and water-resistant Croslite material
- High traction
- Protect your feet from debris
- With ventilation ports for better breathability and good drainage
Cons
- Tiny debris might enter the holes of Crocs and you may feel uneasy
Crocs Classic Clog is a durable shoe for watersports activities like kayaking. Besides, you can use them for a longer period because of their quality materials.
9. Yalox Water Shoes
The drain holes at the bottom of Yalox water shoes make these shoes on top of our best water shoes for kayaking. They have good water drainage and induce a cooler and healthy environment for your feet.
Besides, the rubber sole has added friction to avoid slipping on some wet surfaces or even in wild. What we like about these water shoes is that it is also sweat-absorption and can dry fast.
These water shoes are made from fabric that is breathable, lightweight, and flexible. With these, they are fast draining and with good cross ventilation.
The only downside of these water shoes is that the sizing is quite large. You have to reduce 1 from your shoe size to have the right fit.
Product Specs:
- Material: Ultra-lightweight fabric and anti-slip rubber sole
- Weight: 8.01 ounces
- Dimensions: 10.8 x 4.4 x 2.2 inches
- User: Unisex/ Adult
Pros:
- Super comfy because of its ultra-weight fabric material
- Good drainage with holes at the bottom
- With good cross ventilation that is healthy for your feet
- Sweat-absorption
Cons
- The sizing is quite large, so less 1 from your shoe size
Overall, Yalox water shoes are perfect for kayaking because of good water drainage. Besides, they have anti-slip rubber soles and comfortable fabric material.
10. WateLves Water Shoes
WateLves water shoes are great for kayaking because they have a good grip at the bottom of the boat. Besides, they have thick rubber soles with a unique pattern.
They can protect your feet from sharp objects too. These water shoes have also good breathability because they are made from lightweight fabric. They are comfortable and flexible.
Also, they have seven holes at the bottom for good water drainage and a cool healthy shoe environment. These shoes are also sweat-absorption and easy to carry. However, the elastic laces are super long.
Product Specs:
Material: Lightweight fabric and thick rubber sole
Weight: 10.41 ounces
Dimensions: 9.9 x 5 x 2.3 inches
User: Unisex/Adult
Pros:
- Super comfy and lightweight fabric material
- Thick anti-slip rubber soles
- Good drainage with 7 holes at the bottom of each shoe
- Sweat-absorption
Cons:
- The elastic laces are so long
The WaveLves water shoes are perfect for kayaking because of their good grip and high traction. Besides, these water shoes are also visually appealing, super comfy to wear, and trendy.
11. Simari Water Shoes
Simari water shoes are constructed from 92% polyester that is water-resistant. However, it is not 100% waterproof. You can splash them with water but not soaked the shoes in water for a longer period.
Meanwhile, the upper is made from a mesh material that makes them breathable and quick-drying. The soles are of rubber material with bump texture to make them anti-slip.
These rubber soles can also protect your feet from hot sandy beaches or rocky surfaces. Each sole also has 8 holes for easy drainage.
These water shoes are suitable for kayaking, swimming, sailing, surfing, and other watersports activities.
Product Specs:
Material: 92% polyester, upper made from mesh material, and anti-slip rubber soles
Weight: 10.41 ounces
Dimensions: 10.1 x 4.3 x 2.3 inches
User: Unisex/Adult
Pros:
- Water-resistant polyester material
- Breathable mesh material on the upper part of the shoes
- With 8 holes for easy drainage
- Anti-slip rubber soles
Cons:
- The size is quite smaller so you add 1 to your shoe size to have a better fit
12. Megnya Water Sandals
Megnya water sandals are super comfy to wear while kayaking. The upper section of these water sandals is made from a hand-woven nylon cord, which is durable.
Meanwhile, the soles are constructed from a quality synthetic material. What is unique about these sandals is that they are braided and handcrafted well.
The midsoles are EVA cushions, which make them comfortable to feet. The straps can be adjusted into your right fit.
Overall, the Megnya water sandals have good support, and they look appealing when worn. Also, they are comfortable and easy to carry.
Product Specs:
- Material: Upper section if of nylon cord and rubber soles
- Weight: 8.82 ounces
- Dimension: 5.91 x 4.72 x 0.59 inches
- User: Girls, Women
Pros:
- Handcrafted well and durable
- Super comfy to wear
- Adjustable straps for easy fit
- Protect feet from hot sandy beaches and sharp objects
Cons
- The straps are quite loose
In general, Megnya water sandals are well-constructed, durable, and comfy to wear in watersports activities especially kayaking. The braiding straps also make these sandals attractive on your feet.
The Bottom Line
After long hours of researching, we believe that the above shoes are the best shoes for kayaking. These water shoes are tested by several kayakers. And they find them perfect for watersports activities, particularly in kayaking.
Take time to examine these water shoes and get the best shoes suitable for kayaking needs. Choosing the best water shoes will make your kayaking super comfy and enjoyable.
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I love finding and reviewing the latest in outdoor gear and apparel. I’m a writer and adventure seeker who is obsessed with the outdoors. I love to hike, ski, mountain bike and spend time exploring our beautiful province. This blog will be packed with tips on how to make the most of your time outside whether you are out for a weekend or an extended family vacation. I’ll also share my adventures in hopes of getting you off the couch and into the wild!
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