Whether you’re crossing alpine streams or hiking through slot canyons, wet feet are inevitable. But soggy, heavy boots don’t have to be.
For the 2026 season, I’ve updated my list of top water-ready footwear. From ultra-lightweight mesh runners to rugged hybrids that hike as well as they swim, here are the 9 best options to keep you moving comfortably between land and water.
The Verdict – Our No. #1 Choice
All the shoes here are solid picks, but we keep coming back to the Salomon Techamphibian 5. We ran them through creek crossings, muddy stretches, the usual. The Contagrip FD outsole just grips better on wet rocks than anything else we tested this season.
Here’s the thing with most water shoes: they’re either good in water or good on trails. Rarely both. The Techamphibian 5 actually pulls off both. Mesh drains and dries quickly. The midsole has real cushion. And the reinforced upper fixed the durability issues we saw on the 4.
Our top pick for 2026. Better wet grip than the 4, tougher construction, still dries fast. One shoe for water and trail. That’s the point.
To determine the best 9 water shoes for hiking, we assessed 28 different pairs across diverse outdoor locations, including coastal trails, riverbanks, and marshlands. We put each pair through rigorous testing on various wet and uneven terrains, such as slippery rocks, muddy paths, and sandy banks. Key factors like rapid water drainage, quick-drying materials, grip on wet surfaces, and breathability in warm, humid conditions were closely examined.
Our team conducted extensive, multi-day tests—enhanced with insights from independent experts—to understand the ease of breaking in these water shoes and their durability when exposed to constant moisture. We rated the shoes on aspects crucial for hikers, such as fit, comfort, traction, and moisture management. After compiling the average scores and considering external feedback as well as warranty offers, we crafted our final recommendations for the top 9 water shoes that will keep you comfortable and secure on your next hiking adventure.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
Salomon Techamphibian 5
#2ND BEST CHOICE
Columbia Drainmaker XTR
#3RD BEST CHOICE
Merrell Hydro Next Gen Moc
Our Top Recommended Water Shoes for Hiking
1) Salomon Techamphibian 5
The collapsible heels and solid midsole make these adult water shoes a good choice for long hikes where quick drying is crucial.
Salomon made some smart changes with the 5. Fully stitched construction now (the 4 used welded seams that fell apart on a lot of people), reinforced toe cap, and they switched to Contagrip FD on the outsole. I noticed the grip improvement right away on slick river rocks. It’s not dramatic but it’s there when you need it.
Getting them on is quick with the one-pull laces. Upper is synthetic mesh, pretty standard. The EnergyCell midsole does okay for cushioning, though I swapped in my own insoles when we were out for longer days.
One thing our tests confirmed: the mesh ripping issues from the 4 seem to be fixed. Haven’t seen any wear patterns that worry me yet.
They do run narrow. That came up repeatedly in our fit tests. Worth trying on first if you’re between sizes or have wider feet.
Specs
Weight (pair): 1 lb 1.6 oz500 g (women’s), 1 lb 5.2 oz600 g (men’s)
Upper Material: Synthetic mesh + textile
PROS
CONS
2) Columbia Drainmaker XTR
These supportive water shoes for hiking have style and provide great arch support when you decide to cross some slippery rocks.
If you are looking for something between water sandals and quality waterproof hiking boots, you should stick with this model. Drainmakers are not your regular aqua shoes for hiking, for the simple reason that they have a thicker midsole and razor siping in their rubber sole.
From my perspective, they look and feel more like trail running shoes and are possibly the best water shoes for muddy terrains. You’ll feel light and free with the adjustable bungee laces that keep your feet comfortable even when you are not wearing socks.
These comfortable hiking sandals also combine a breathable mesh with drainage holes for fast water drainage, so you won’t experience wet feet for long.
Specs
Weight (pair): 1 lb 3.3 oz550 g (women’s 5), 1 lb 7.5 oz670 g (men’s 9.5)
Upper Material: Mesh + synthetic fabric
PROS
CONS
3) Merrell Hydro Next Gen Moc
This foam slip-on offers decent protection for light outdoor activities and feels close to walking barefoot.
The Next Gen fixes the original’s main issues. Heel shape is better contoured, so you get true hands-free entry now. The original needed a heel strap to stay secure; this one doesn’t.
Merrell added a FloatMax foam midsole and a denser rubber outsole. The result is a shoe that feels more structured than the original’s all-foam build. We put both versions through the same terrain, and the rubber on the Next Gen held up better. Wet grip is more consistent, too.
The toe box is roomy and works well for wider feet. Our fit tests confirmed these accommodate broad feet comfortably.
The catch: these are camp shoes at heart. I wouldn’t take them on anything technical. Fine for light trails, post-hike recovery, kicking around camp. And on hot days, my feet got sweaty without socks because the foam doesn’t breathe like mesh.
Specs
Weight (pair): 1 lb 2 oz510 gram (Women’s), 1 lb 8 oz680 g (men’s)
Upper Material: BLOOM EVA foam
PROS
CONS
4) Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport
Some of the best water hiking shoes for scuba diving, the Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport are lightweight and stay true to size.
These Xero shoes are versatile and provide excellent grip, making them perfect for running on wet terrain or loose rocks. More than everything, when I tried my brand new pair, I loved the toe protection they offered.
It’s reassuring to know that my toes are well-protected while navigating rugged terrain.
The snug fit, with mesh panels for breathability and quick-release laces, makes it easy to get a comfortable and secure fit. Even better, the upper materials are sturdy and durable, and the thick sole offers a fair amount of support for a barefoot shoe, making these suitable for long hikes.
You can also use them as river shoes or hiking sandals for wet environments because they dry quickly.
Specs
Weight (pair): 11.6 oz330 g (women’s 7), 14.4 oz410 g (men’s 9)
Upper Material: Mesh
PROS
CONS
5) KEEN Drift Creek H2
A more stylish option, these Keen water shoes feature a toe cap and heel strap, providing excellent support and foot protection, even in slippery conditions.
I must admit that when I tried these shoes for the first time, the polyester straps felt a bit stiff, but once I took a few steps in them, they immediately turned into some of the best water shoes I have ever owned.
Not only are these shoes great for hiking, but they’re also great for everyday use. They’re top-notch in terms of comfort and style, and the upper part is designed to keep moisture and bad odor out while still allowing the feet to breathe.
I’ve worn the KEEN Drift Creek H2 in various settings, from hiking trails to running errands, and they’ve held up incredibly well.
Specs
Weight (pair): 1 lb455 g (women’s 5), 1 lb 4 oz570 g (men’s 9)”
Upper Material: Polyester webbing
PROS
CONS
6) Nortiv 8 Barefoot Water Shoes
With a wide toe box and quick drying, these shoes have all the features you’ll need for boating, kayaking, and even trail running.
These shoes are specifically designed to withstand cold water and provide maximum grip, which is exactly what you should look for if you are adventuring into a river crossing experience.
Based on our team’s first-hand experience, they offer good drainage, and compared to other shoes for hiking we tried, they stay true both to men’s and women’s sizes.
Your feet feel cool and protected from small stones in the water. Plus, the secure fit, combined with good traction and quick drying, provides superior comfort and flexibility.
Specs
Weight (pair): 13.6 oz385 g
Upper Material: Synthetic fabric
PROS
CONS
7) SEEKWAY Water Shoes
These shoes have an ankle design that offers support and comfort, which is especially important when you’re carrying a heavy load or walking over uneven terrain.
If you’re planning a trip to a shallow creek or river, SEEKWAY Water Shoes could be an ideal choice for you.
While, according to our tests, this pair of shoes offers less protection than other models, it makes up for it in its great value. Compared to most water shoes available, SEEKWAY shoes are affordable and provide excellent value for their price.
They are suitable for both dry and wet conditions, making them versatile and convenient, and come with a sieve water feature, which means that water can easily drain out of the shoes, preventing them from becoming waterlogged and heavy.
Specs
Weight (pair):
Upper Material: Spandex
PROS
CONS
8) Astral TR1 Mesh 2.0
Water hiking in these shoes will make you feel light as a feather while enjoying excellent ankle stability and a very quick dry.
The Astral TR1 Mesh 2.0 is the best water shoe model for men or women who want to forget about their footwear and focus on the activity at hand.
With a combination of air and covered areas, these shoes provide excellent support and stability on any surface, making them excellent for wading and getting wet.
We have found from using this product that its durability and impressive features ensure a secure fit, while the comfortable design makes the shoes easy to wear for extended periods. They are soft and flexible and a perfect fit for lake activities.
Specs:
Weight (pair): 8.9 oz255 g (women’s 5), 10.6 oz300 g (men’s 9)
Upper Material: Ripstop 2D Mesh with TPU overlays at the toe and heel cap
PROS
CONS
9) SOBASO Water Shoes
This model made our list of best shoes for water hiking for its incredible grip and flexible outsole that make it great for adventuring in the outdoors.
The SOBASO Water Shoes have many features that make them some of the best water shoes on the market. The sole is made from high-quality materials that provide great traction and grip, making it easy to walk on slippery surfaces.
Additionally, the shoes are designed to be durable, so they will last you a long time, even if you use them frequently.
The toe sandal design is perfect for warm weather and ensures that your toes won’t get sweaty or uncomfortable. However, when we tried them in chillier weather, we noticed that the fabric tends to soak water, and it takes them more time to dry.
Specs
Weight (pair): 1 lb 0.4 oz465 gram
Upper Material: Knit mesh
PROS
CONS
Water Shoes for Hiking Buyer’s Guide
Selecting good water shoes for hiking can be a struggle if you don’t know where to start. To help you, we decided to share the criteria we used when picking the models on our list:
Quick Drying
Choose a model that has a good draining system and quick-drying materials, like the Columbia Men’s Drainmaker XTR Water Shoe.
This way, after crossing a river, you’ll be able to continue your hike without feeling your shoes getting heavier.
Material
A synthetic leather upper may sound durable, but once you get it wet, it’s almost impossible to dry fast.
Sustainability matters. Some brands are incorporating eco-friendly materials. The Merrell Hydro Next Gen Moc uses BLOOM foam made from algae biomass.
Performance
You want a reliable companion for your adventures, so go for a model like the Salomon Techamphibian 5, which offers great traction on any terrain.
Comfort
When it comes to water shoes, comfort stands in breathability and cushioning. However, many models lack padding, as this slows down the drying process. If you prefer a model that can keep you going for miles, the Salomon Techamphibian 5 has the most reliable soles on this top.
Tread
Check that your sandals have a sturdy sole for a firm hold on slick ground. The Salomon Techamphibian 5, with its perforated grooves, excels on tough trails.
Fit
Before selecting a model, take a look at its design and the sizes it offers.
Some shoes fit only narrow feet and may not work if yours are wider.
If this is the case, pick a model like Nortiv 8 Barefoot Water Shoes, which comes with elastic laces.
Weight
Look for lightweight shoes that won’t get in your way as you swim or cross a river. We recommend the Astral TR1 Mesh 2.0, which weighs under 1 pound.minder dan 450 gram.
Ventilation
Finally, you need to make sure that your feet don’t get hot when the sun is blazing. The KEEN Drift Creek H2 has straps that allow the air to circulate and reduce sweat and bad odors.
Comparison Table
| WATER SHOE | PRICE INDICATION | WEIGHT | MATERIAL | CHARACTERISTICS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salomon Techamphibian 5 | $130 on Backcountry (M) $130 on Backcountry (W) | 1 lb 1.6 oz (women's) 1 lb 5.2 oz (men's) | Synthetic mesh + textile | Quicklace system |
| Columbia Drainmaker XTR | Check on Amazon (M) Check on Amazon (W) Check on eBay (M) Check on eBay (W) | 1 lb 3.26 oz (W5) 1 lb 7.5 oz (M9.5) | Mesh + synthetic | Looks like trail runners |
| Merrell Hydro Next Gen Moc | Check on Amazon | 1 lb 2 oz (women's) 1 lb 8 oz (men's) | BLOOM EVA foam | Vegan |
| Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport | Check on Amazon (M) Check on Amazon (W) $130 on REI (M) $130 on REI (W) | 11.56 oz (W7) 14.38 oz (M9) | Mesh | Toe protection Lightweigh |
| KEEN Drift Creek H2 | Check on Amazon (M) Check on Amazon (W) | 1 lb 0.04 oz (W5) 1 lb 4.02 oz (M9) | Polyester webbing | Cool Design |
| Nortiv 8 Barefoot Water Shoes | Check on Amazon (M) Check on Amazon (W) | 13.62 oz | Synthetic fabric | Lace-lock bungee |
| SEEKWAY Water Shoes | Check on Amazon | 7.3 oz | Spandex | Easy to clean Good value |
| Astral TR1 Mesh 2.0 | Check on Amazon $150 on Backcountry $150 on REI | 8.92 oz (W5) 10.62 oz (M9) | Ripstop 2D Mesh + TPU | Cheap insoles replacement |
| SOBASO Water Shoes | Check on Amazon | 1 lb 0.4 oz | Knit mesh | Very durable |
What Else Do We Consider When Choosing the Best Water Shoes for Hiking
During our testing process, we took into account the following factors, which helped us select and rank the products:
Feedback
We always look at the feedback each product receives and try to be as concise as possible in our description, but there is always the possibility that other users feel different than us when testing the shoes.
Shipping
Delivery time and cost can influence customers’ decisions in buying a product, so we selected only shoes that have realistic shipping costs.
Warranty
Even the best brands put sometimes a flawed product on the market, so it is best to buy a product that comes with a warranty. Thus, we looked into water shoes that are covered against defects that may appear in the manufacturing process.
FAQs
Water shoes can work for hiking on dry land, but they cannot provide the comfort of regular hiking shoes. Since they need to drain water quickly and dry, they have thinner soles and almost no padding. This is why they don’t offer enough traction for rocky terrains.
Yes, you can swim in water shoes and use them for other water activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating. They can help protect your feet from sharp objects and provide better traction on wet and slippery surfaces.
Water shoes are comfortable to wear both on wet and dry surfaces as long as you don’t use them on rocky terrain. They come with quick dry lining and water drainage holes that allow them to dry faster, even after river crossings.
Yes, water shoes can be a good option for walking on the beach. They are designed to provide traction on wet surfaces, which can help prevent slips and falls. Plus, they offer toe protection from sand and debris.
Wearing water shoes for rock climbing is a bad idea. Their rubber sole is not thick enough, and they lack padding, so you will feel every single rock as you climb. Climbing shoes, on the other hand, offer protection for your ankles and better traction on rougher terrains.
A high-quality water shoe pair can last up to 1 year, especially if you take good care of it. But you may get up to 5 years of life from your river shoes if you don’t wear them frequently.
Yes, you can wear socks with your water hiking sandals and get extra protection against shells and stones. But you should take off your wet socks before putting on your dry sandals or shoes, as they can cause rubbing on your skin and blisters.
Prices in this article are approximate and updated annually. Check the retailer for current rates.
