• Sizes: US 5 to 10 | Widths: Medium | Supplies: Artificial cloth, EVA, rubber

Most Supportive: Chaco Traditional Z/1 Sandal

Out of doors specialists, podiatrists, and SELF staffers have beneficial Chaco’s OG sandal through the years for nearly each cause. It’s sturdy, grippy, and cozy sufficient to put on all day (it has a Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation, which signifies that specialists have decided its design can promote good foot well being). Even this author (and her pancake-flat toes) loves Chaco’s signature arch help.

As a water shoe, the Traditional Z/1s are simply as spectacular. “Throughout a four-day rafting journey down the Rogue River, they had been tremendous safe throughout rapids, on hikes, whereas moist, and on uneven, slippery surfaces,” journey blogger Hanna Ashcraft beforehand advised SELF.

• Sizes: US 5 to 12 | Widths: Medium | Supplies: Polyester, polyurethane (PU), rubber

Greatest for Colder Water: NRS Kicker Wetshoe

High paddling model NRS made this low-profile wetshoe with a grippy, textured outsole; simple pull tab behind the heel; and a spacious toe field. It has a closed design, so you possibly can put on it with socks, however because of its light-weight layer of insulation, it’s fairly heat by itself too. “Simply what I used to be searching for to tackle an Arkansas river float,” wrote one REI reviewer. “Good traction on the rocks. Ft stayed hotter within the cool water.” For much more protection, NRS additionally makes bootie-style wetshoes.

• Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Widths: Medium | Supplies: Neoprene, rubber

Extra nice choices

If none of our prime picks communicate to you, there are nonetheless extra sneakers from beloved manufacturers like Crocs and Speedo to think about. Test them out beneath.

Crocs All-Terrain Clog

All the pieces the All-Terrain has in frequent with Crocs’ Traditional Clog make it nice for puttering round camp. However its outdoorsy upgrades (like a higher-traction sole and an adjustable heel strap) additionally make it a strong possibility for water actions.

• Sizes: US 6 to 12 | Widths: Medium | Supplies: EVA, proprietary foam

Speedo Surf Knit Professional

This easy water shoe prices lower than $50 and has a stretchy, breathable higher. It in all probability gained’t stand as much as rougher situations, however it will possibly aid you maintain your footing on slippery surfaces in calm waters.

• Sizes: US 5 to 11 | Widths: Medium | Supplies: Artificial cloth, EVA

Xero Aqua X Sport Water Sneakers

With loads of grip and sensitivity, Xero’s Aqua X Sport shoe means that you can really feel each little bit of the bottom (you possibly can even take away the insoles to really feel nearer to the bottom). It’s versatile and lightweight, so though it’s a closed-toe shoe, it nonetheless supplies a barefoot really feel.