Stylish and eco-friendly with superior grip, quick-drying materials, and a barefoot-like feel.
Versatile sandal with razor-siped grip, secure fit, and quick-drying materials.
Are you tired of soggy socks and slippery decks? Want comfortable and secure footing on your kayaking adventures?
You’re in the right place. We’ve tested and reviewed the best kayaking shoes for 2024, focusing on comfort, grip, and durability.
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, we’ll help you find the perfect pair to keep your feet happy and dry while paddling. Say goodbye to slips and soggy toes, and say hello to pure kayaking pleasure.
What Are the Best Shoes for Kayaking?
Finding the right kayaking shoes can feel like navigating a maze of options. That’s why we’ve done the legwork (pun intended!) to handpick the top 7 options that excel in comfort, grip, and durability. Our choices will keep your feet happy and secure, whether you’re a casual paddler or a seasoned pro.
1. NRS Kicker Remix
Remember those classic water shoes you’d wear at the beach? Well, these are not those. The Kicker Remix is a high-performance shoe made for kayakers by kayakers. They’re not just about style; they’re about functionality, too. Think of them as the Swiss Army knife of kayaking footwear.
Our Take
The NRS Kicker Remix earns a solid 9 out of 10 for its exceptional grip, water drainage, comfort, and overall performance. It’s a reliable and versatile shoe that will keep your feet happy and secure on all your kayaking adventures.
Key Benefits
- Unbeatable Grip: The sticky rubber sole clings to wet surfaces like a gecko, giving you unmatched confidence on slippery decks and rocky shores.
- Lightning-Fast Drainage: No more soggy socks! The mesh upper and drainage holes shed water faster than you can say “paddle.”
- Next-Level Comfort: The 3mm neoprene bootie hugs your foot like a warm hug, while the adjustable strap provides a secure, customizable fit.
- Tough-as-Nails Protection: The reinforced toe cap and abrasion-resistant upper stand up to scrapes, bumps, and everything else your kayaking adventure throws at you.
- Quick-Drying: Throw them in the sun for a few minutes, and they’re ready for your next paddling session.
- Versatile Design: Wear them on the water, on the trail, or at the campsite. These shoes are up for anything.
- 2-Year Warranty: NRS stands behind its products, offering a generous warranty against defects in materials and artistry.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $40.46
Pros
Cons
2. Astral Loyak
Picture this: a shoe that’s as stylish as it is functional. That’s the Astral Loyak. It’s like the sneaker of the kayaking world, perfect for paddlers who want to look good and feel good.
Our Take
The Astral Loyak gets a near-perfect score for its exceptional grip, comfort, versatility, and style. It’s the ideal shoe for paddlers who want a high-performance shoe that doesn’t sacrifice looks for functionality.
Key Benefits
- Amazing Grip on Wet Surfaces: The G.15™ rubber outsole is designed for superior grip on wet rocks and slippery boat decks, giving you the confidence to move around with ease.
- Quick Drying: Thanks to the hydrophobic canvas upper and drainage holes, the Loyak dries in a flash, so you won’t have to worry about soggy feet.
- Comfort and Style: The shoe’s low-profile design and flexible upper provide a comfortable, barefoot-like feel, while the stylish looks make them perfect for wearing on and off the water.
- Level Footbed: This unique feature promotes balance and stability, which is especially important when standing on a paddleboard or kayak.
- Eco-Friendly: Astral is committed to sustainability, and the Loyak is made with recycled materials and PFC-free water repellency.
- One-Year Warranty: Astral offers a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $109.95
Pros
Cons
3. Newport H2
If you’re looking for a sandal that can do it all, the KEEN Newport H2 is your match. It’s like the outdoor enthusiast’s dream shoe, perfect for kayaking, hiking, and everything in between. Think of it as your adventure companion, always ready for whatever comes your way.
Our Take
The KEEN Newport H2 is a fantastic all-around shoe that delivers performance, comfort, and versatility. It’s a reliable choice for kayakers who want a shoe that can handle both on-water and off-water adventures.
Key Benefits
- Excellent Traction: The razor-siped rubber outsole provides excellent grip on wet rocks and slippery surfaces.
- Secure Fit: The bungee lacing system allows for quick adjustments and a secure fit, keeping your feet in place during active pursuits.
- Durable Construction: The washable polyester webbing upper and protective toe cap are built to withstand rugged conditions.
- Quick-Drying: The hydrophobic mesh lining and open design allow water to drain fast, keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
- Odor Control: The Cleansport NXT™ technology naturally controls odor, keeping your shoes fresh even after long days on the water.
- Versatile Design: Wear them on the kayak, on the hiking trail, or around town. The Newport H2 is a true multi-sport shoe.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $85.90
Pros
Cons
4. Aqua X Sport
Are you a minimalist who values a barefoot feel? If so, the Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport might be your perfect match. These lightweight, flexible shoes let your feet move naturally while providing just enough protection for kayaking and other water sports.
Our Take
The Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport is an excellent choice for minimalist paddlers who value natural movement and a barefoot feel. While it may not be the most protective or durable option, it excels in comfort, flexibility, and affordability.
Key Benefits
- Barefoot Feel: The thin, flexible sole allows for maximum ground feel and natural movement.
- Lightweight and Packable: These shoes are incredibly light and could be easily packed into a kayak or backpack.
- Quick-Drying: The breathable mesh upper and open design allows water to drain quickly.
- Wide Toe Box: Wide toe box gives your toes to spread out naturally, promoting comfort and stability.
- Vegan-Friendly: The Aqua X Sport is made with vegan-friendly materials, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious paddlers.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $120.85
Pros
Cons
5. Vivobarefoot Ultra III
If you’re a fan of minimalist footwear but still want a bit more protection than the Xero Shoes offer, the Vivobarefoot Ultra III is a great option. These shoes provide a barefoot-like experience with a touch of added durability and versatility.
Our Take
The Vivobarefoot Ultra III is a fantastic choice for minimalist paddlers who prioritize natural movement and want a shoe that could handle a variety of activities. It strikes a great balance between flexibility, protection, and style.
Key Benefits
- Barefoot Feel: The thin, flexible sole allows for natural movement and sensory feedback, promoting healthy foot function.
- Puncture-Resistant Sole: Despite its thinness, the sole is surprisingly puncture-resistant, offering protection from sharp objects.
- Breathable Mesh Upper: The permeble mesh upper keeps your foot dry and cool, even in warm weather.
- Wide Toe Box: Wide toe box allows your toes to spread out naturally, promoting comfort and stability.
- Versatile Design: Wear them for kayaking, hiking, running, or even casual wear. The minimalist design transitions seamlessly between activities.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $112.23
Pros
Cons
6. Techamphibian 4
The Salomon Techamphibian 4 is like a water shoe and hiking shoe hybrid, perfect for those who want a shoe that could transition seamlessly from water to land. Think of it as your adventure partner for kayaking, hiking, and exploring both wet and dry environments.
Our Take
The Salomon Techamphibian 4 is a reliable and versatile shoe that performs well in both water and land environments. It’s a great choice for kayakers who want a shoe that could handle a variety of adventures.
Key Benefits
- Excellent Traction: The Contagrip® outsole provides exceptional grip on wet and dry surfaces, making it good for navigating both water and land.
- Quick-Drying: The breathable mesh upper and drainage holes shed water quickly, keeping your feet dry and comfortable.
- Secure Fit: The adjustable lace system and heel strap provide a secure, customizable fit, preventing slippage and blisters.
- Durable Construction: The synthetic upper and reinforced toe cap are built to withstand rugged conditions.
- Comfortable Cushioning: The EVA midsole provides cushioning and support for long days on your feet.Pricing
- MSRP: $130
- What You Get: A versatile and durable shoe that excels in both water and land activities, making it a great choice for multi-sport adventurers.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $89.18
Pros
Cons
7. Hydro Moc
If you’re looking for a shoe that’s easy to slip on and off, the Merrell Hydro Moc is a fantastic option. It’s like a comfy clog designed for water activities, perfect for those who want a hassle-free shoe that can handle wet conditions.
Our Take
The Merrell Hydro Moc is a great value option for casual paddlers who want a comfortable and convenient shoe for water activities. While it may not be the most high-performance shoe on the market, it excels in comfort, ease of use, and affordability.
Key Benefits
- Easy On and Off: The slip-on design makes it easy to put on and take off, even when your feet are wet.
- Lightweight and Breathable: The EVA upper is breathable and lightweight, keeping your feet comfortable and cool.
- Quick-Drying: The perforated design allows water to drain quickly, preventing that soggy shoe feeling.
- FloatLite™ Midsole: The FloatLite™ midsole provides lightweight cushioning and support.
- Relaxed Fit: The wide toe box allows your toes to spread out naturally, promoting comfort and stability.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $34.95
Pros
Cons
What to Look for in Kayaking Shoes?
- Grip: A solid rubber sole with aggressive tread patterns is essential for navigating slippery decks and rocky shores.
- Water Drainage: Shoes with mesh panels or drainage holes allow water to escape, preventing that soggy sock feeling.
- Comfort and Fit: Look for shoes with secure lacing or straps and comfortable cushioning to keep your feet happy on long paddles.
- Protection: A reinforced toe box can protect your feet from rocks and other obstacles in and out of the water.
- Quick-Drying Material: Opt for synthetic materials that dry quickly to keep your feet warm and comfortable.
- Versatility: Some shoes are great for both on-water and off-water activities, like hiking or exploring the beach.
How Can Kayaking Shoes Benefit You?
Kayaking shoes are more than just footwear; they’re essential gear for any paddler.
The best kayak shoes offer toe and heel protection, safeguarding your feet from sharp rocks, shells, and other hazards lurking beneath the water’s surface. They also provide a crucial grip on slippery surfaces like boat decks and wet stones, preventing slips and falls.
Moreover, paddling shoes designed for kayaking are engineered for quick water drainage and fast drying, ensuring your feet stay comfortable throughout your adventure.
With features like reinforced toe caps and durable materials, the best kayaking shoes act as a shield for your feet, allowing you to focus on enjoying the paddle, not worrying about potential injuries.
Investing in a quality pair of kayaking shoes is a small price to pay for comfort, safety, and peace of mind on the water.
Remember to consider the impact the right footwear can have on your overall paddling experience.
Buyer’s Guide
When doing our research to find the best kayaking shoes, we considered the following factors:
- Performance: We rigorously tested each shoe in real-world kayaking conditions, assessing their grip on wet surfaces, water drainage capabilities, and overall performance.
- Comfort and Fit: We evaluated the comfort and fit of each shoe, considering factors like cushioning, breathability, and adjustability.
- Durability: We examined the materials and construction of each shoe to determine their durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Features: We looked at specific features like toe and heel protection, quick-drying materials, underfoot protection, and versatility for other activities. We also assessed if the shoes offered adequate thermal protection for colder conditions.
- Pricing: We compared the prices of different shoes to find options that offered the best value for the money, including lightweight shoe options that didn’t compromise on performance.
- Customer Reviews: We analyzed hundreds of customer reviews to get real-world feedback on the pros and cons of each shoe.
- Expert Opinions: We consulted with experienced kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts to get their insights and recommendations.
By considering all of these factors, we were able to identify the top 7 kayaking shoes that gives the best combination of performance, comfort, durability, and value.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right kayaking shoe is crucial for comfort, performance, and safety on the water. Consider features like a neoprene collar for warmth, velcro straps for easy adjustment, and adequate protection for your feet in cold temperatures.
The seven shoes we’ve reviewed cater to various needs and preferences, ensuring your feet stay safe and dry while paddling.
Please remember to prioritize grip, drainage, and comfort when making your choice. Only settle for other shoes that are designed for water activities.
Invest in a pair of dedicated kayaking shoes, and you’ll be rewarded with enhanced performance, comfort, and peace of mind on your next paddling adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important features to look for in the best shoes for kayaking?
Grip, drainage, and comfort are essential. Looking for shoes with a grippy rubber sole, mesh panels or drainage holes, and a comfortable fit. Additional features like toe and heel protection, quick-drying materials, and versatility are also valuable.
Do I need special shoes for kayaking?
While you could wear any old pair of shoes, specialized kayaking shoes are designed to keep your feet safe and comfortable in wet environments. They offer better grip, drainage, and protection than regular shoes.
Can I wear sandals for kayaking?
Sandals can be a good option for warm-weather kayaking, but choose a pair with good traction and secure straps. Avoid flimsy flip-flops that could easily slip off.
What kind of socks should I wear with kayaking shoes?
Synthetic socks are the best choice for kayaking because they wick moisture away from your feet and dry quickly. Avoid cotton socks, as they tend to assimilate water and stay wet.
How can I make my kayaking shoes last longer?
Rinse your shoes with fresh water after each use, and allow them to air dry completely. Ignore leaving them in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can degrade the materials. Choose a good pair that’s highly breathable for extra comfort, and look for shoes with reinforced toe caps and durable materials.
