Everyone knows that annoying squeaky and squishy feeling you get when water gets trapped under a regular footbed and just won’t dry. It can be a huge pet peeve and one of those small annoyances that can ruin your day.
If you like a low-maintenance look, appreciate functionality over style and like to pack light, then you’re probably on the lookout for an all-around functional sandal that can get wet, won’t slip, and will still look stylish for any events you have after the activity is over.
We also took other important characteristics in mind when selecting a water sandal including the following features: adjustability, stability, roomy enough, max 1-inch heel, and motion control.
One of the most amazing things about water sandals is their versatility. They are the perfect footwear solution for a wide variety of situations and activities.
Water Sandals Make Perfect Beach Day Footwear
Water sandals are the perfect footwear choice for a day at the beach. You’re probably looking for a sandal that is easy to put on and take off so you can go barefoot in the sand. You also know that the sandal might get wet and want it to dry quickly so you’re not stuck with a sandy foot for the rest of the day.
But you know that your normal flip-flops are flimsy and won’t give you enough support for comfort throughout the day. In fact, it’s not even worth trying because you already know where it’s going to end up.
We’ve all had that experience when expecting to step into soft, squishy sand and instead encountering what feels like the heat of a thousand suns. You end up hobbling left and right, pretending that the sand is lava until you reach the water and finally get to dip your toes in and cool off.
On a typical summer day, you can probably expect to see beach bums lathering up in sunscreen. But very few of us do this correctly—whether you’re using lotion or spray, we’ve been burned one too many times by both.
Your feet are one of the main body parts to get sunburnt. This is because they’re an ample flat surface area for the sun to hit and most people neglect to rub sunscreen in and around their toes or the sides of their feet. Wearing sandals, as well as being diligent about your sunscreen application, can help combat sunburn and protect your feet from hot surfaces.
Water Sandals are Great for Hiking
Many of us are under the terrible misconception that the only footwear appropriate for hiking is a good pair of boots. But during the warm-weather season, it’s so much more pleasant to hike in a supportive, quick-drying sandal.
This is because a close-toed shoe is very hard to keep water out of, even if they claim to be “waterproof.” During your hike, you might encounter wet grass, a body of water that you’ll have to cross, or possibly a spring or summer rainstorm.
That’s why we believe it’s important to wear a water shoe with built-in ventilation—a sandal! While wading through situations like this, it’s easy for water to enter at the top where you insert your foot.
The only real solution to keep water out is to wear long pants and tuck them in, but that tends to be an uncomfortable option for warmer temperatures.
Water Sandals Are The Ideal Shower Shoe
This isn’t exactly a warm-weather activity, but if you belong to a gym or visit a campground, you’re probably familiar with a communal shower situation. And if you are familiar, you know that it’s not necessarily the smartest idea to go into it bare-footed.
But you certainly don’t want to wear your shoes. This is because warm and moist environments are a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria that could lead to athlete’s foot. To prevent this, wear shower sandals so the water can drain, make sure you’re drying well in between your toes, and don’t put socks on until your feet are completely dry.
Maybe you’ve even lived in a dorm during your college days and known the slimline you’ve toed wearing slippery flip-flops. It’s much safer to have a sturdy and quick-drying pair that will stay clean and reliable to pack in your gym bag or your weekend bag for a trip.
Supportive Water Shoes Are Great for Canoeing, Kayaking or Any River Activity
So you’re going out on the river! Canoeing or kayaking are sure to get your feet wet. It’s easy for your small boat to take on water, and you’ll most likely have to wade in a foot or two when entering or exiting the canoe at the dock.
You might need to carry your kayak or canoe from your car to the water. Also, you never know what hazards are lurking on the bottom of the shallow water. Launching your boat in bare feet leaves you vulnerable to stepping on sharp litter, rocks or twig. And you certainly don’t want to wade in your tennis shoes or hiking boots. For this reason, a pair of water shoes is the ideal solution that will keep your feet safe and dry.
Pack Water Sandals for The Perfect Travel Footwear
You’re headed on vacation! We know—even the thought of it makes you want to celebrate. If you’re going somewhere wet, you’re probably looking for a pair of shoes that can do it all. The ones you can throw in your backpack and go from activity to activity in comfort and style while still being able to sport them to dinner later at night.
You might think that no water shoe could fit the bill. You’d be wrong. There are plenty of options on this list with the perfect balance of function and style.
Are we out of the woods yet? If you’re headed on a camping trip, you’ll want a sandal that will keep your feet cool and protected from debris. It’s important to have a water-friendly sandal to wick your foot from sweat and keep your feet dry when crossing creeks or streams. You still want to wear them during a bonfire while roasting mallows or during an epic card game on the cabin porch with the family or friends.
