Best Shoes for Kayaking: Top Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

As someone who kayaks regularly, I’ve learned the hard way that regular outdoor shoes just won’t do. They don’t offer enough traction on slippery surfaces, have little to no waterproofing, and lack breathability—features that actual kayaking shoes excel at. 

Kayak shoes provide increased stability, protection, and warmth while kayaking, making the experience safer and more comfortable. 

To help you find the best shoes for kayaking, I’ve reviewed some of the most noteworthy kayaking shoes to wear on your next paddle trip. I’ve also included a buyer’s guide to help you with your purchase. 

Let’s dive right in!

Best Overall: Merrell All-Out Blaze Aero Sport Shoes

Made with breathable mesh lining, a cushioned UniFly midsole, and a Vibram TC5+ outsole, the Merrell Aero Sport Shoes are as durable as they’re comfortable.

They’re true-to-size and fit securely around the foot, making them suitable for activities such as kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, snorkeling, and other intense outdoor excursions.

Thanks to their mesh paneling and synthetic soles, the Merrell Aero Sport is breathable and quick to dry. Plus, they accommodate feet of all kinds, making them surprisingly well-rounded.

Simari Water Shoes – Runner Up

Available in laced and non-laced variants, the Simari Water Shoes come with everything you need in kayaking shoes: breathable material? Check. Drainage design? Of course. Protective outsole with increased traction? Absolutely. 

Featuring an eight-hole drainage design, these shoes keep your feet well-drained and cool even in water. The soles are made with high-quality rubber materials with a textured design to improve balance and traction in slippery places.

Mishansha Water Shoes – Best Value

Available in up to 40 different colors and designs, the Mishansha Water Shoes perfectly balance quality and functionality.

These shoes are lightweight, breathable, and wear-resistant and are suitable for water-related activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, surfing, and scuba diving. It’s made with Lycra material for cross-ventilation and fast drying, which helps with odor prevention.

It also features an anti-slip camo rubber sole for better traction, elastic straps for quick adjustment, and a pull tap at the heel for quick entry.

Speedo Men’s Water Shoe Surfwalker Pro

The Surfwalker Pro is a speedo water shoe that excels in comfort and breathability. Its cushioned insole provides impact protection from hard surfaces, while its propriety S-Trac outsole seeps water away from the shoe for increased traction and slip resistance. 

Featuring a tight-fitting neoprene design, the Surfwater Pro allows for a full range of motion. It likewise offers great insulation from cold temperatures, making it suitable for kayaking in colder climates. 

L-RUN Athletic Water Shoes

When it comes to flexibility, the L-RUN Athletic Water Shoes wins with flying colors. Made of breathable fabric with anti-slip soles, these water shoes work perfectly in wet environments. 

They feature a honeycomb insole structure, multiple drainage holes for quick drying, sweat-absorbing fabric, and a durable TPR sole for maximum traction. In addition, they’re flexible, lightweight, and easy to put on and take off thanks to the elastic draw-string band. 

HIITAVE Womens’ Water Shoes

These water shoes by HIITAVE boast an impressive degree of stretch. With this in mind, it isn’t easy to ascertain whether it fits a wide foot, given that it yields more pliability once moistened. Ultimately, this model proved very comfy!

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Factors to Consider When Buying Kayaking Shoes

When buying kayaking shoes, consider these factors: 

• Material: When buying kayaking shoes, look for footwear made of waterproof materials like neoprene or rubber. Shoes made of non-waterproof materials deteriorate faster, making them uncomfortable or even downright dangerous when wet.
• Fit and Closure: Kayaking shoes need to fit your feet snuggly. They should be tight enough to minimize movement when walking, even when they’re wet. If the shoes are too big or loose, rocks and debris can get inside them, leading to cuts and blisters. 
• Durability: Kayaking can do a number on even the toughest of shoes, which is why durability is of utmost importance when picking footwear for kayaking shoes. Search for a pair that can withstand various terrains like sand, rocks, and gravel. The shoes need to be stitched well and offer all-around protection, regardless of the location or activity. 
• Breathability: Buy kayaking shoes with breathable fabric, like mesh to prevent odors. This allows good airflow and keeps your feet cool, even during summer. 
• Traction: To maintain stability and protect your feet from slipping, search for shoes with thick rubber outsoles. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of shoes do you wear for kayaking?

The ideal footwear for kayaking is water shoes or water booties. These shoes are lightweight, warm, and water-ready.  

How do I keep my feet dry when kayaking?

Wear thick, waterproof socks inside your waterproof paddling booties to keep your feet dry while kayaking. These socks keep you warm and protect your feet from the liquid. 

What are the best waterproof shoes for kayaking?

The best waterproof shoes for kayaking are comfortable, protective, and waterproof. They should have enough support and traction for wet and slippery surfaces and rocky surfaces for hiking during portaging. 

The kayaking shoes above feature these characteristics, so you can’t go wrong with any of them. However, if I had to pick, I’d say my favorite is the Merrell All-Out Blaze Aero Sport Shoes because of the shoes’ versatility, quality, and overall performance.