The Best Water Shoes For Women

Buying Guide

Whether you’re concerned about stepping on rocks on the beach or just want some extra grip when you do activities in the water, women’s water shoes can help protect your feet — especially if you’re transitioning often from water to land. While styles can vary, water shoes usually come in the form of mesh or neoprene slip-on shoes that might resemble slippers with plenty of coverage. They’re convenient to put on and take off and many fold up when you’re ready to put them away.

When shopping for women’s water shoes, you’ll find that the upper part is made of a fabric that’s breathable, flexible and lightweight. The material used is designed to drain water while you’re wearing them and may also dry quickly for convenience. The fabric can come in solid colors as well as lots of fun patterns and styles so that you can show off your fashion sense. They might also have laces that make it easy to adjust the shoe’s fit or include a special feature like salt resistance.

You’ll find that water shoes come with a special rubber sole that sets them apart from the alternative: swim socks. The sole is usually textured and provides both cushioning and traction on slippery surfaces. You can find water shoes with thin and thick soles. Thicker ones add protection but also add weight versus thinner soles.

It’s important to pay close attention to the fit and support the water shoes offer you. Unless the manufacturer advises you to size up or down, you’re usually best going with your usual shoe size. If you buy too big of a pair, you might not only end up uncomfortable but also lose some of the traction benefits water shoes offer. Also, consider features like ankle support, which help you stay safe when you’re engaging in more strenuous activities.

• Since they’re used in the water, these kinds of shoes tend to build up bacteria that can lead to odors. So, you’ll want to resist simply throwing them in a bag after your swim. Instead, dry them out. You can either let them air dry or use a blow dryer if you’d like to speed the process up.
• Consider opting for shoe deodorizing sprays if odors remain a problem. You may also want to consider a more breathable type, such as a water shoe that has more open mesh on its surface area.
• Pay close attention to the shoes’ structure and fit for your safety and comfort: choose the right ones based on your activity. For example, if you’re mainly using water shoes for swimming, aim for thinner water shoes that drain well and offer a tight fit similar to a sock. Heavier water shoes can make swimming challenging.
• Heavier water shoes do have their own advantages, though. Thicker shoes offer more protection for activities like hiking through rocky streams, walking on the beach and doing water aerobics.
• Depending on the type of water shoes you purchase, you may have several cleaning options available. Some kinds are simply machine-washable for convenience, so check the label. Otherwise, you might use warm water and baking soda and give the shoes a good scrubbing inside and out. Be sure to let them dry completely.