When it comes to paddleboarding accessories, the right paddleboard shoes can make all the difference between a comfortable session and a painful ordeal.
After testing various water shoes for everything from December paddles to Summer beach days, I’ve learned that proper footwear isn’t just about comfort; it’s also about safety, performance, and getting the most out of your time on the water.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about choosing paddleboard shoes, from my top picks to essential features that matter most. We’ll explore sizing guidance, material options, care tips, and budget considerations to help you find the perfect water shoes for your paddling style and conditions.
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Best Paddleboard Shoes (Water Shoes)
Now, let’s dive into our list of the best water shoes for paddleboarding, starting with the Astral Loyak AC.
Astral Loyak AC
Best for paddlers who want versatility on and off the water
Key Benefits
- Exceptional wet grip with Astral’s sticky rubber compound
- Minimalist design maintains natural board feel and balance
- Quick-drying materials with perforated upper and drainage holes
- Versatile style suitable for casual wear after paddling
The Astral Loyak AC represents the gold standard for paddleboard shoes, combining serious water performance with everyday wearability. Built with a flexible mesh upper and Astral’s signature sticky rubber sole, it delivers the grip and drainage you need without the bulk that interferes with board feel. This shoe excels in the sweet spot between protection and sensitivity, with a thin, flexible sole that maintains excellent board connection while protecting from sharp rocks and debris. Perfect for UK paddlers who want one shoe for launching from rocky shores, paddling, and heading to the pub afterwards.
Pros and Cons of the Astral Loyak AC
What I Like
- Lightweight construction doesn’t compromise board feel
- Excellent traction on wet rocks and slippery surfaces
- Stylish enough for post-paddle socialising
What I Dislike
- Premium pricing may deter budget-conscious paddlers
- Limited insulation for cold water conditions
- Sizing runs large, need to go down half a size
SUOKENI Water Shoes
Best for lightweight comfort and extended paddling sessions
Key Benefits
- Lightweight, stretchy construction adapts to different foot shapes
- Quick-dry breathable mesh upper sheds water efficiently
- Adjustable lacing system prevents slipping during use
The SUOKENI Water Shoes offer surprisingly good performance at a fraction of premium brand costs, making them perfect for newcomers or occasional paddlers. Built with breathable mesh and flexible rubber soles, they provide adequate protection and grip for most conditions. The stretchy construction adapts well to different foot shapes, while the quick-lace system ensures security. They won’t match premium options for durability, but represent outstanding value for recreational paddling.
Pros and Cons of the SUOKENI Water Shoes
What I Like
- Comfortable for extended wear without pressure points
- Available in multiple colours for men and women
What I Dislike
- Durability concerns with frequent use on rough surfaces
- Minimal arch support for those needing extra foot support
Speedo Surf Knit Pro
Best for comfort-focused recreational paddling
Key Benefits
- Slip-on convenience for easy on/off during casual sessions
- Breathable knit upper comfortable for extended wear
- Flexible sole maintains reasonable board connection
- Affordable pricing offers great value for recreational use
The Speedo Surf Knit Pro prioritises comfort above all else, making it perfect for leisurely paddling sessions and casual water activities. The knit upper provides sock-like comfort for long periods, while the flexible sole maintains decent board connection. This shoe excels in low-key environments where maximum grip isn’t essential, with a slip-on design perfect for quick sessions or frequent water entry/exit. While not built for challenging conditions, it’s ideal for lake paddling, calm coastal waters, and recreational SUP yoga sessions where comfort trumps performance.
Pros and Cons of the Speedo Surf Knit Pro
What I Dislike
- Incredibly comfortable for long, relaxed sessions
- Easy slip-on design
- Affordable price
What I Dislike
- Limited grip on challenging wet surfaces
- Minimal protection for rocky or debris-filled waters
- Less durable than more robust alternatives
Osprey Adults 5mm Zipped Wetsuit Boots
Best for cold water paddling and winter sessions
Key Benefits
- 5mm neoprene construction provides excellent thermal insulation
- YKK zip closure ensures a secure fit and easy on/off
- Reinforced sole offers protection and grip on wet surfaces
- High-cut ankle design prevents water flushing and adds warmth
- Durable construction withstands regular use in harsh conditions
The Osprey Adults 5mm Zipped Wetsuit Boots are purpose-built for paddlers who refuse to let cold water stop their sessions. With 5mm of premium neoprene construction, these boots provide serious insulation for year-round paddling in British waters. The YKK zip closure makes them easy to get on and off, even with cold, wet hands, while the reinforced sole provides adequate grip and protection for rocky launches.
The high-cut design prevents water from flushing through, maintaining warmth even during long sessions. While bulkier than traditional water shoes, they’re an essential kit for dedicated paddlers tackling winter conditions or extended cold-water expeditions.
Pros and Cons of the Osprey Adults 5mm Zipped Wetsuit Boots
What I Like
- Excellent warmth retention for cold water conditions
- YKK zip makes entry and exit much easier than pull-on boots
- Reinforced sole provides good protection on sharp rocks
What I Dislike
- Bulky design reduces board feel and balance sensitivity
- Takes longer to dry compared to lighter alternatives
- Higher price point than basic water shoes
If you’d like to learn more about the Osprey Adults 5mm Zipped Wetsuit Boots, you can read my full review here.
Keen Newport H2
Best for all-around summer paddling with breathable, durable protection
Key Benefits
- Rugged toe protection with enclosed toe cap prevents stubs and injuries
- Superior traction from non-marking rubber outsole with multi-directional lug pattern
- Long-lasting comfort with EVA footbed and quick-dry webbing
- Eco-odor control keeps feet fresh during all-day paddles
The Keen Newport H2 is a hybrid sandal that consistently ranks as a top pick for paddleboarders due to its proven design and durability. With a stout rubber toe bumper and secure fit, it protects feet from rocks and board dings while offering sandal breathability. The water-resistant straps and quick-cinch laces make adjustment easy, staying comfortable even when wet. Paddlers love how the razor-siped outsole grips slick SUP decks and docks, preventing slips in choppy conditions. This versatile, time-tested choice can handle years of use, with many owners reporting 4-5 years of wear from a single pair.
Pros and Cons of the Keen Newport H2
What I Like
- Excellent toe and foot protection for rocky launches
- Secure, adjustable fit that runs true to size
- Breathable, washable materials great for hot weather paddling
What I Dislike
- Not ideal for cold water due to open design
- Slightly heavier than minimalist water shoes
- Can collect sand and debris in the toe area
Astral Hiyak Water Shoe
Best for premium performance and cold-condition paddling
Key Benefits
- Ankle coverage and support from high-cut, bootie-style design
- “Super sticky” outsole provides outstanding grip on wet boards and rocks
- Fast-draining and drying with hydrophobic canvas upper
- Hidden laces with velcro strap prevent snagging
The Astral Hiyak is often hailed as the gold standard for serious paddleboard footwear, especially in cooler conditions. Unlike typical low-cut water shoes, the Hiyak rises above the ankle like a wetsuit boot, providing light insulation and coverage for cold water paddling. Its hydrophobic canvas upper is tough yet flexible, keeping water out and drying quickly if submerged. The high-friction G® Rubber sole is renowned for stickiness on slick surfaces, meaning excellent traction on paddleboard decks or river rocks. Thoughtful details like tucked laces prevent snags during active use.
Pros and Cons of the Astral Hiyak Water Shoe
What I Like
- Warmth and insulation for cold-water paddling
- Secure high-top fit protects ankles and keeps out debris
- Top-tier grip and durability from proprietary rubber sole
What I Dislike
- Only available in one colour with no half sizes
- Higher price point than most water shoes
- Can feel warm in hot summer conditions
NRS Kinetic Neoprene Wetshoe
Best for cool-weather or shoulder-season paddling
Key Benefits
- 3mm neoprene insulation with Terraprene™ and titanium for warmth
- Second-skin fit with stretchy design and ankle drawcord
- Textured rubber sole provides protection without bulk
- Naturally shaped toe box enhances comfort
The NRS Kinetic is essentially a wetsuit for your feet, excelling at keeping toes toasty in cold conditions while maintaining barefoot-like board connection. The upper and insole feature 3mm neoprene infused with titanium for extra heat retention, eliminating numb toes during chilly morning SUP sessions. Despite thermal benefits, the Kinetics remain agile with a soft sole thick enough to shield from sharp rocks yet thin enough for easy movement. A cinch cord at the ankle keeps the wetshoe secure and helps seal out gravel or silt.
Pros and Cons of the NRS Kinetic Neoprene Wetshoe
What I Like
- Great cold-weather option keeps feet warm in UK waters
- Form-fitting sock feel for excellent board feedback
- Grippy rubber sole prevents slips without adding bulk
What I Dislike
- Not as durable on rough, rocky terrain due to thinner sole
- Pricier than basic water socks
- Can feel too warm in summer conditions
Vibram FiveFingers V-Aqua
Best for true barefoot enthusiasts
Key Benefits
- Five-toe separation allows toes to splay naturally for unmatched balance
- Mega-grip sole with Vibram’s Megagrip rubber compound
- Ultralight and fast-drying with breathable mesh upper
- Perforated sole ensures rapid water drainage
Vibram’s FiveFingers V-Aqua is the ultimate minimalistic footwear for water sports, essentially giving you a second skin on your feet. Fans love that each toe is individually articulated, enhancing balance and the ability to grip with toes on the paddleboard. Where it really shines is traction: the V-Aqua uses Vibram’s renowned Megagrip outsole that reviewers praise as the best grip around for wet rocks and boards. The design tackles drainage issues with a perforated outsole and footbed that let water flow out, while the lightweight mesh upper doesn’t hold water.
Pros and Cons of the Vibram FiveFingers V-Aqua
What I Like
- Ultimate barefoot feel with independent toe movement
- Outstanding grip on wet surfaces from high-friction rubber
- Rapid draining and drying prevents waterlogged feeling
What I Dislike
- Can develop odour quickly if not properly maintained
- Takes time to put on properly with precise sizing needs
- Unique look may not appeal to everyone
Helly Hansen Supalight Moc One
Best for comfort and casual style on the water
Key Benefits
- All-day comfort from slip-on moccasin style with supportive heel cup
- Quality build using over 80% recycled polyester in the upper
- Good grip for paddleboarding from the rubber outsole
- Eco-friendly construction with durable materials
From a brand known for outfitting sailors, the Helly Hansen Supalight Moc One brings nautical style and comfort to the SUP world. These slip-on watersport mocs combine casual looks with paddleboard-friendly features. The largely recycled mesh/textile upper drains and dries quickly while being environmentally friendly. The design includes a supportive heel and roomy toe area, preventing cramped feet. For paddleboarders, the grip is surprisingly good, providing confident footing on board deck pads comparable to dedicated water shoes since they’re designed for sailing.
Pros and Cons of the Helly Hansen Supalight Moc One
What I Like
- Very comfortable fit with cushioned feel and supportive heel
- Easy slip-on design
- Durable build from reputable brand with eco-conscious materials
What I Dislike
- Low-cut design can let small stones in on pebble beaches
- Not as snug-fitting as laced shoes
- May slip off briefly in very aggressive water movement
Salomon Techamphibian 5
Best for versatility on land and water
Key Benefits
- 2-in-1 design with collapsible heel for slip-on or secure shoe wear
- Trail-ready sole with Contagrip® rubber for hiking capability
- Quicklace system for easy one-pull lacing that tucks away
- Supportive midsole allows it to double as a hiking shoe
The Salomon Techamphibian 5 is a do-it-all amphibious shoe equally comfortable paddleboarding and hiking to secret coves. Salomon’s mountain sports heritage shows in this rugged trail runner appearance with quick-dry water shoe materials. One cool feature is the folding heel—step into it like a slip-on when launching your board, then pop the heel up and tighten laces when needing full support. The shoe excels in versatility, transitioning seamlessly from land to water with Contagrip rubber providing reliable traction on muddy banks and wet SUP decks.
Pros and Cons of the Salomon Techamphibian 5
What I Like
- Highly versatile, functioning asa water shoe and a light hiker
- Secure fit with Quicklace and supportive structure
- Quality construction with Salomon durability and styling
What I Dislike
- Quicklace system can be fiddly
- Heavier and less packable than ultra-minimal water shoes
- Higher price point for specialized features
Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport
Best for barefoot-style performance with sneaker support
Key Benefits
- Ultralight and flexible with zero heel drop minimalist build
- Phenomenal grip from high-traction outsole with chevron lugs
- Fast draining and drying through loose-knit mesh upper
- Wide toe box lets toes spread naturally
The Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport brings barefoot running philosophy to water with an incredibly light, low-profile aqua sneaker excelling in warm-weather paddling. The grip is outstanding—reviewers note it provides the best grip on wet surfaces of any water shoe tested. The sole’s special tread and flexible rubber ensure confident maneuvering on slick SUP decks or rocky entry points. The mesh upper doesn’t hold water, with a non-absorbent tongue and multiple drain holes ensuring instant water flow-out. Comfort is top-notch for minimalist design with a wide toe box and Achilles notch for all-day wear.
Pros and Cons of the Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport
What I Like
- Incredible traction praised as among the best in class
- Barefoot comfort with protection from a wide toe box
- Quick-draining and breathable stays lightweight when soaked
What I Dislike
- No insulation for cold water or winter use
- Low-cut design allows sand/grit ingress
- Minimal upper foot protection from a low profile
Speedo Surfwalker Pro 3.0
Best for easy, comfortable protection for casual paddling
Key Benefits
- Easy on/off comfort from four-way stretch pull-on upper
- Quick-dry cushioning with breathable mesh panels
- S-Trac™ outsole grip channels water away for better traction
- Cushioned insole absorbs impact and adds walking comfort
The Speedo Surfwalker Pro 3.0 proves the world’s leading swim brand knows water shoes. This model focuses on simplicity and comfort, excellent for paddleboarding newcomers or mellow water activities. The Surfwalker Pro is a sock-like slip-on with stretchy mesh upper—no buckles or laces—allowing seconds-quick on/off. Once on, they fit snugly and won’t easily float away during swims. Users comment on how lightweight and comfortable they are, with soft EVA insole offering underfoot padding for hard ground walking or longer SUP sessions.
Pros and Cons of the Speedo Surfwalker Pro 3.0
What I Like
- Slip-on convenience with forgiving stretch fit
- Very comfortable and cushioned for hours of wear
- Good traction from the outsole design prevents slips
What I Dislike
- Sizing runs large—consider sizing down for a snug fit
- Thin sole not intended for rough terrain
- Best for flat waters and smooth surfaces only
Why You Need Paddleboard Shoes
Let’s be honest, going barefoot feels brilliant. Most people prefer to go barefoot when paddling. It’s more convenient. It’s more freeing. And it helps with balance on your board. Your feet naturally grip the board better, and you’ll feel more connected to your SUP.
But here’s the reality, especially in the UK: conditions in the UK mean it’s not always practical to paddle barefoot. Rocky shorelines, cold water, sharp shells, and unpredictable weather make paddleboard shoes an essential kit for many sessions.
When you absolutely need water shoes: rocky or debris-filled waters, where launching from pebble beaches or paddling near outcrops requires protection from cuts and scrapes. Cold water conditions in Britain’s chilly waters can leave feet painfully cold. Long-distance paddling sessions can leave even tough feet sore, while unfamiliar locations hide unknown hazards beneath the surface.
What Makes Great Paddleboard Shoes
After testing my water shoes in various conditions, here are the essential features that separate brilliant water shoes from mediocre ones.
The sole is everything. You’ll want a sticky rubber that grips wet surfaces like a gecko on glass. Look for deep, multidirectional tread patterns, high-quality rubber compounds designed for wet conditions, and toe and heel grips for extra security when climbing back onto your board.
Water shoes that stay soggy are miserable to wear. Water shoes are designed to endure constant soaking, shed water, dry quickly, and grip on wet surfaces. Essential drainage features include mesh panels or perforations for water escape, quick-drain holes in the sole, materials that don’t retain water, and antimicrobial treatments to prevent odours.
A poorly fitting water shoe is worse than no shoe at all. Key comfort factors include roomy toe box space that allows feet to naturally flex and splay, secure heel that prevents slipping and blisters, minimal seams to reduce chafing when wet, and cushioned insoles for comfort on hard surfaces.
Water shoes take a beating. They’re dragged across rocks, soaked repeatedly, and stressed in ways regular shoes never experience. Look for reinforced toe caps for protection, robust stitching that won’t fail when wet, materials that resist UV degradation, and abrasion-resistant soles.
Choosing the Right Size and Fit
Getting the fit right is crucial for paddleboard shoes. Here’s what I’ve learned from testing.
Go slightly snug since water shoes should fit closer than regular shoes as they’ll stretch when wet. Account for neoprene socks if you wear wetsuit boots underneath by sizing up accordingly. Check the width, as many water shoes run narrow, especially for wide feet. Consider swelling since feet swell during long sessions, so don’t go too tight.
Before hitting the water, test your shoes properly. Soak the shoes and walk around for 10 minutes for a wet test. Make sure your heel doesn’t slip when walking downhill. You should be able to wiggle your toes freely, and check for any pressure points that cause discomfort.
Material Breakdown: What Works Best
Neoprene offers insulation and flexibility with excellent comfort, but it’s slow to dry and can develop odours. It works best for cold water conditions.
Mesh and synthetic materials are quick-drying, lightweight, and breathable, though they offer less insulation and can be less durable. They’re ideal for warm water and summer paddling.
Rubber soles provide excellent grip, durability, and protection, but can be heavier and less flexible. They’re best for rocky conditions requiring maximum traction.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care extends the life of your paddleboard shoes significantly. After each session, rinse thoroughly with fresh water, remove any sand or debris, air dry completely before storing, and check for damage or wear. For weekly deep cleaning, machine wash on gentle cycle if the manufacturer allows, use mild detergent while avoiding bleach, air dry away from direct sunlight, and apply UV protectant spray if needed.
Store in a dry, ventilated area, avoid crushing or folding, keep away from extreme temperatures, and use shoe trees to maintain shape.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying too big creates blisters and reduces performance. Water shoes should fit snugly but not painfully tight.
- Ignoring drainage leads to waterlogged, uncomfortable shoes, so always prioritise designs with good water evacuation.
- Choosing fashion over function might look great, but if shoes don’t grip wet surfaces or protect feet, they’re useless on the water.
- Forgetting about drying time is crucial since some materials take hours to dry, so consider your paddling frequency when choosing materials.
Budget Considerations
Entry-level options (£15-£35) are perfect for occasional paddlers, offering basic protection and drainage.
Mid-range shoes (£35-£65) represent the best sweet spot for regular paddlers, with better materials, construction, and features.
Premium options (£65-£100+) are for serious paddlers wanting the best performance. Astral, Merrell, and high-end options justify costs with superior materials and construction.
Where to Buy
Amazon offers a massive selection and competitive prices, while outdoor gear specialists provide expert advice and returns. Manufacturer websites stock the latest models with warranty support. For physical stores, outdoor shops let you try before buying, surf shops offer specialised water sports knowledge, and sports stores are good for basic models.
Seasonal sales offer the best opportunities for savings. End of summer brings the best discounts on water shoes, Black Friday provides significant savings on premium brands, and new season launches mean previous models get discounted.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right paddleboard shoes comes down to three things: keeping your feet safe, performing well on the water, and actually enjoying your sessions. If you’re out there every weekend exploring local rivers or you’re the type who tackles gnarly coastlines, good footwear changes everything.
Here’s the thing—the best paddleboard shoes are the ones you’ll genuinely want to wear. I’ve seen too many people grab the cheapest pair only to regret it when they’re slipping all over their board or nursing cut feet. But throwing money at the most expensive option doesn’t guarantee they’re right for you either.
Think about where you actually paddle, what you can realistically spend, and which features will make the biggest difference to your sessions. Get the right shoes sorted and you’ll hit the water with proper confidence and protection, no matter what our unpredictable British conditions decide to throw at you.
Learn More
If you loved this guide, you’re in luck as I’ve got a bunch of other great resources for you to explore here…
- How To Paddle Board: Complete SUP Guide for Beginners
- What To Wear Paddle Boarding
- 19 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Paddleboarding
- Best Paddle Board Accessories
- The Waterways Licence Explained
- Best Dryrobe Alternative Changing Robes
All images courtesy of their respective brands
About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an outdoor adventure specialist with 15+ years of hiking, camping, and paddle boarding experience. He has conquered Europe’s toughest trails including the GR20 in Corsica, walked 3,000km solo across New Zealand, and worked professionally in the outdoors industry. Steve’s gear reviews and recommendations are based on real-world testing across four continents, from coastal waters to mountain peaks. Learn more about Steve or get in touch.
