Does kayaking require special shoes to have a better experience? Of course, it does. From hiking boots to sandals, find what suits you the best.
What Makes a Shoe Best For Kayaking?
Choosing the perfect shoe for kayaking depends on the water you’re hitting and the purpose. For kayak fishing, the shoes differ significantly. Here are some parameters you should consider when buying the best water shoe:
Water Proof
Kayaking shoes must be waterproof to avoid the long drying process. Kayakers often need to push their kayaks when stuck in water, which requires water-resistant material.
Keep Your Feet Protected
Decent coverage around your feet helps to prevent any bites or potential reactions.
Comfort
Comfortable shoes ensure breathability and protect your feet from discomfort, such as bruising and scratching.
Strong Grip
A shoe should be flexible enough to give a good grip when sitting, standing, or walking in the water.
6 Best Shoes For Kayaking 2025
For a safe and memorable kayaking experience, the experts recommend the following as the best kayak shoes on the market:
Best Kayak Shoes: Wetsuit Booties
Our Top picks include Palm rock and Lomo 3mm Wetsuit Booties.
Palm Rock shoes
Unisex water shoes, made with 3mm CR limestone neoprene. Suitable for 3-season paddling on rivers, lakes, and the sea.
These are ideal shoes for regular paddlers who enjoy kayaking or canoeing trips or are stand-up paddle boarders. The outsoles protect the feet, toes, and heels while ensuring flexible movement.
A Velcro strap guarantees a secure fit, and the Rocks will definitely stay on your feet even in challenging situations. They are easily removable and a one-time investment that will last years.
Things I loved
Comfortable to wear with closed-toe ankle protection, Offers great grip on slippery surfaces, Versatile,
Things I Didn’t Enjoy
– Non-breathable, No thermal lining
Lomo 3mm Wetsuit Booties
High-quality neoprene boots, specifically made to protect your feet from the cold and sharp objects while surfing or paddling.
Whether you’re paddle boarding or rafting, these lightweight shoes are designed to support grip and deliver quality. Their solid color makes them a statement piece, and rubber soles maintain traction. It’s safe to say they’re the best pair of kayak shoes we’ve tested.
The only major issue is that they’re not as breathable as you’d expect them to be. They do keep the feet warm, but this can be a problem for kayakers in warm areas. They also tend to accumulate smell after use.
Things I Loved
Versatile, Affordable, Warm, Good grip
Things I Didn’t Enjoy
– Non-breathable, Non recyclable, Accumulate odor
Best Overall Water Shoes for Men : Astral Loyak AC
Comes with a removable insole and water-resistant laces, ideal for urban settings.
The Astral Loyak AC footwear promises versatility in whitewater. Its stylish closed-toe design allows water to drain faster and offers toe and heel protection. The neutral soles provide support and stability in wet rocks and terrain.
Although these shoes are breathable, they won’t keep your feet warm in chilly weather. The mesh upper is also not durable in some cases. If you’re looking for a versatile water shoe that also works well as a running shoe, Loyak AC is the perfect choice.
Things I Loved
Closed-toe shoes, helps in portaging or carrying your boat while kayaking and canoeing, quick-drying process
Things I Didn’t Enjoy
– Keep your feet cool, Not durable
Best Water Shoe for Paddling : NRS Paddle Wetshoe
Lightweight and flexible paddling shoes protect from underfoot concerns.
This type of shoe is a top choice among our male paddlers. It keeps the feet dry and is preferred over kayak boots. The sticky rubber sole ensures you stay intact in the water and offers paddling comfort.
However, they might not be the right footwear for walking. They are designed to be worn inside the kayak, making them only paddling shoes. For those finding an alternative with better durability on land, the NRS Kicker Wetshoe might be the one for you. These shoes are perfect for everyday use and more affordable.
Things I Loved
Ensures level of comfort, Durable, Offers good grip
Things I Didn’t Enjoy
– Slow drying process, Not ideal for walking
Best Sandals For Kayaking : Keen Drift Creek H2
Advance sole protection with high water resistance.
Whitewater kayaking in warm weather might seem like a bad idea, but not with these durable sandals made from plastic bottles.
The Drift Creeks’ lace-lock strap provides toe and sole protection throughout the kayaking trip, making them comfortable to wear for extended hours. The rubber outsole offers exceptional grip on slippery surfaces and has a quick drying process.
Things I Loved
Washable, Breathable, Stylish, Easy to paddle with
Things I Didn’t Enjoy
– Expensive, Doesn’t provide full coverage.
Final Thoughts
There are various factors to consider when buying the best shoes. I’d love a good all-rounder like the NRS Kicker Wetshoe, which has high-quality water resistance. It also prevents water from getting onto your foot and gives the best overall kayaking experience.
