If you’re looking for the best shoes for beach walking, you’ve come to the right place! Your annual family vacation to the seaside is approaching, and though you’ve picked the perfect swimming attire, have you bought the right shoes? But then again are shoes really even necessary? Shoes for the beach are designed for the activity of the wearer, meaning kayaking, paddle boarding, and even beach walking will require different footwear.
To help you navigate the many available options and features on the market, we’ve gathered 5 of the best options for beach walking and a guide to help you decide which is right for you.
Comparison Chart
Why Are Beach Walking Shoes Necessary?
Although walking on the shore with your toes in the sand sounds like a good idea at first glance, you’ll be quick to realize that shoes can relieve discomforts like hot sand, sharp shells, insect bites and uncomfortable surfaces.
Here are some reasons we recommend shoes while walking on the beach:
Sand can burn the skin on your feet. The sand can often heat to unbearable temperatures from exposure to the sun. In many instances, beach walking requires foot protection to protect your skin. There are many different pests and insects found on the beach sand, like sand fleas. Wear shoes to avoid bites, irritation and possible reactions to these critters.
Even sand beaches often have sharp rocks, gravel, shells, and other debris buried in the sand and other surfaces. Wearing shoes offers a barrier between your feet and any potential hazards waiting in the sand.
Now you may be wondering,- will any shoes do? The answer to this is, no. You’ll need comfort, style and protection for your feet at the beach. Here are 5 of the best options on the market today:
Best Shoes for Beach Walking Reviewed
1. Dreamcity Men’s Water Shoes
Review
The Dreamcity water shoes are a quality pair of beach footwear designed with enough features that they’re acquired many happy customers around the country.. These shoes are breathable and durable, designed to meet the needs of walking at the beach..
The features of this beach shoe make it ideal for exploring the shore. From it’s design that’s made of 90% fabric, to its durable rubber sole, it is made to last for many adventures to come. Additionally, the upper on this shoe is made of open mesh, giving them ample drainage and airflow.
Because of the quality design, these shoes are quick drying and won’t mold easily or grow bacteria over time. That being said, it’s still important to let the shoes dry completely before storing them. Furthermore, the lightweight design is great to prevent added weight when wet, or while exploring the hot sand.
As an added bonus, these shoes feature a comfortable dry-sock liner that provides optimum cushioning for a drier and healthier shoe environment. However, the foot bed in this design isn’t as smooth as some users would like- something to keep in mind.
If you choose this pair you won’t have to worry about slipping because they have rubber soles designed to provide traction in slick conditions. Accidents do happen, including slipping on muddy ground at the beach, but can often be prevented with high traction beach shoes. Opt for a pair that grips firmly on those wet beach sands, and any slick environments like rocks or shells. Shoes with rubber soles provide you with the traction and support you need to avoid nasty falls, and ensure ultimate grip on the beach. Additionally, the unique midsoles make these shoes lightweight and durable.
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2. Voovix Water Shoes for Men and Women
Review
If you’re looking for a high-quality and versatile pair of shoes for walking at the beach, then the Voovix water shoes are a great choice. The unisex design offers a comfortable fit for both men and women, and these shoes can be used for a variety of fun outdoor activities at the shore, like beach games, an oceanside picnic, seaside camping, beach volleyball, and even exploring the coast with your dog.
It’s a near certainty that water will get into your shoes while exploring the beach, and with shoes that are designed specifically for the beach, this is no problem. Featuring seven drainage holes on the sole of the shoe, this product is great for dispersing sweat and water away from feet, and for quick drying. Additionally, the drainage hole allows for maximum air flow in the soles to keep the environment in your shoes breathable and comfortable throughout the day. The design of these shoes is ideal for walking on the beach. Aside from being lightweight and comfortable, they have non-slip rubber soles for added traction on slippery surfaces. Additionally, the flexible fabric used in the construction is stretchy and durable for ultimate durability, and to ensure the shoes can be used for many beach trips to come.
To make wearing and removing these shoes a breeze, the design features pull tabs on the heels for ease and convenience while wearing. Furthermore, the elastic laces make for quick and easy adjustment, according to the size of your feet or environment you’ll be exploring.
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3. Kararao Men’s Water Shoes Barefoot
Review
If you’re looking for a quality pair of beach shoes that won’t sacrifice the barefoot sensation, then the Kararao water shoes are a fantastic option. The flexible design of this shoe is ideal for feeling up close and personal to the surface you’re walking on. It’s spandex upper ensures comfort throughout the day, while the rubber sole offer ample traction and a layer of protection for feet while you’re exploring.
Not only does this pair of beach shoes add a bit of flare to your gear, this stylish product offers a variety of colors and designs to suit the preference of every beach adventurer. This is great for matching a pair of shoes to your personality, and for ensuring they don’t accidentally walk off with someone else at the beach. Though Kararao shoes are stylish, it’s just an added bonus, as the focus remains on practicality and functionality on the shore.
The upper design of this shoe is constructed of a Lycra material. This lightweight fabric and design allows for fast draining of water that enters the shoes, and cross ventilation to keep feet comfortable throughout the day. Additionally, the comfortable fit of these shoes is great for long walks on the beach and leisurely strolls on the shore. For added convenience and ease, these shoes also features pull tabs at the heels for taking them on and off a breeze.
The versatile design of these shoes makes them suitable for many environments, from beach walks, to road trips, long flights, and more. Highly rated and reviewed for use on the beach and more, these shoes certainly earned their shop on this list through quality construction, functionality and stylish design.
It is important to note that some users find these shoes to be a bit narrow. If you’re a person with wider feet, make sure to check shoe size and dimensions, offered by the manufacturer. This will save you the hassle of having to return, exchange, or invest in a new pair.
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4. L-Run Beach Hiking Shoes for Men and Women
Review
The lightweight and flexible design of the L-Run beach hiking shoes is perfect for both men and women’s feet, in this unisex design. Additionally, the versatile function makes them great for a multitude of activities. From searching for shark teeth on the shore, to paddle board yoga, to fun beach activities with kids, and lounging at the pool- these shoes are highly rated and reviewed for whatever you have planned on your adventure.
Featuring a durable rubber and non-slip outsole, this shoe provides stronger traction and helps to prevent falls on slippery surfaces. The insole is designed in a comfortable and honeycomb structure, made to protect feet from sharp surfaces at the shore like rocks, shells and more.
While durability is essential, so is flexibility while walking to keep feet comfortable. The lightweight design and breathability of this shoe are ideal for just that. Made of high-quality and lightweight materials, this shoe is made to give you the barefoot sensation many customers crave during long walks on the beach and more. Additionally, the stretch material upper offers ample breathability throughout the day, and makes for quick draining of water that enters the shoes.
Along with a quality construction and design, these shoes have an elastic band with removable shoelaces, designed to help adjust comfortable according to foot size. This design lets user do this quickly and conveniently while on the go, while also keeping shoes secure and snug to feet while adventuring. Use the provided, and thorough, sizing chart to find the best fit for your feet.
Additionally, this style of shoe comes in a wide variety of colors, styles and designs to suit the aesthetic preference of nearly every customer. With many options to choose from, you’re able to match your shoes to your gear, your personality, or just ensure they don’t accidentally walk off with someone else at the beach.
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5. SIMARI Barefoot Beach Shoes for Men and Women
Review
If you’re looking for a beach shoe that’s not only great for long walks on the shore, but also a multitude of other activities- the SIMARI barefoot beach shoe might be the one for you. The unique design on these shoes makes them easily adjustable on the go, durable enough for a variety of environments, breathable for the beach, and feature high drainage for marine environments. Additionally, they’re designed to give the wearer the barefoot sensation so many people crave at the seaside.
The soles on these shoes are made from a rubber and non-slip material which features excellent traction and air permeability. The uppers are made of an elastic Lycra material, which is great for breathability, water drainage and the ability to dry quickly. All of these things and more make this product a strong contender for your next beach adventure.
Not only is the unisex design of these quality beach shoes great for the feet of both men and women, but the shoes come in a variety of colors and designs to suit your aesthetic preference. Aside from a stylish design, these shoes feature convenient drawstring elastic shoelaces, which make adjusting on the go a breeze. Furthermore, the stretch neckline of this shoe makes taking them on and off quick and easy.
The lightweight and comfortable design of this pair of shoes makes for quality foot safety while on the beach. The sole is ergonomically molded for ultimate comfort, and the added cushion is great for protecting feet and toes from shock and abrasion. Additionally, the outsoles have 8 holes, providing quality drainage for any water that gets inside the shoes. These holes keep water flowing out of the shoes, and away from feet. Not only does this help to prevent added weight when walking, it also helps keep feet cool throughout the day.
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Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Pair of Beach Walking Shoes
The right pair of beach walking shoes should be durable enough to withstand the marine environment, feature good drainage to navigate water away from your feet, and be flexible and breathable enough to keep you comfortable throughout your day walking on the sandy shore. A quality pair of walking shoes designed for beach use will feature foot support and convenient features to make wearing them a breeze. To help you navigate the many options available on the market, we’ve gathered some of the top design aspects to look for when choosing the pair that’s right for you.
Here are some of the key features to look for when investing in beach walking shoes:
Shoe Features
Beach shoes have a variety of sport performance features that are required for the shoes to function properly and keep your feet safe on the beach. To find the best shoes for your needs on the beach, it’s important to understand how you’ll be using them. Ask yourself these questions:
- Will I be walking in the sand?
- Will I be submerging these shoes in the water?
- Will I be walking on slippery rocks or other surfaces?
- Do I need my shoes to be quickly adjustable?
- Do my shoes need a stretchy neckline?
- Should I choose an option with or without shoelaces?
These questions will help you understand the style of shoe that’ll be ideal for your next beach adventure. For example, if you’ll be on a beach with slippery surfaces, you’ll want to invest in a pair with added traction on the soles and some added shock absorbency. Additionally, if you’ll be exploring in the shallows you’ll want to choose a pair that have ultimate drainage in the soles, and that features mesh or Lycra uppers for added drainage. Beach shoes are fairly universally designed to keep sand out, and should be easy to take on and off for a rinse if debris does get inside.
Many beach shoes are designed for specific activities at the seaside. For example, there are shoes made to meet the needs of kayakers, shoes designed for running on the beach, those made for use in the water, and even shoes designed for dogs! The shoes in this guide were chosen for their unique design and features that specifically meet the needs of those leisurely exploring the seaside by foot.
Breathability
Beach shoes are ideal for walking on the shore for many reasons, especially when the sand is hot. Not only do they provide safety from sharp rocks, shells and debris, but these shoes offer a barrier between the hot sand and your sensitive feet. Additionally, our bodies produce more heat than usual in warm environments and when exerting energy, so you’re feet are bound to get warm while at the seaside. For this reason, the beach shoes you opt for should be breathable and feature plenty of air flow for feet throughout the day.
Relying on a dip in the water to cool your feet off presents a major issue in a circumstance where you can’t make it to the water’s edge. Ideally, beach shoes shoe feature channels where water and air can flow with ease to wick sweat away from feet and keep them cool, dry and comfortable during your trip to the shore.
Mesh or Lycra upper builds on a beach shoe often offer plenty of breathability and comfort. Although some options are designed only with specific breathing panels, instead of an entirely breathable upper. In this instance you’ll want breathing panels located in the following areas:
- The Achilles Tendon Area
- Upper Foot Area
- Side Areas of the Arch of the Foot
All of the options in this guide feature breathable uppers because we believe this is one of the most important features to search for in beach shoes to keep feet comfortable throughout the day.
Drainage
When heading to the seaside, you’re going to need shoes that feature proper drainage- it’s a must. Inevitably you’re going to get water in your shoes, and when you do, two things can happen: it can stay inside making you miserable, or it can drain out letting your feet breath. Not only does water that’s built up in shoes cause discomfort while exploring, but it also increases a safety concern.
When water builds up in shoes with ineffective drainage systems, it can decrease the grip and internal traction of your feet to the shoes, and the surface below. This can be particularly hazardous when you’re exploring a rocky shore with wet, slippery and slick surfaces. Additionally, access water in beach shoes makes for added weight which increases fall or trip risks, and generally makes most people uncomfortable.
To prevent this unnecessary hazard on the beach, opt for walking shoes that are designed for beach use and feature a drainage system that removes water when your feet are no longer submerged. This ability to drain water will not only keep feet drier, but it’ll also keep them cooler on the hottest days with plenty of ventilation for air to reach your feet.
Here are some aspects to look for when considering drainage in your beach shoes:
- Drainage should be quick and efficient
- Mesh construction of the upper helps with water drainage
- Outsoles should feature multiple drainage holes
Durability
Along with a high-drain construction, your beach shoes should be durable enough to withstand beach elements like waves, sand, shells and other debris. Cheaply made shoes should be avoided, as these are likely to fail and create a hassle on vacation. Choose beach shoes that are made of high quality materials and feature a durable construction.
When inspecting your beach shoes, look closely at several features that will tell you if they were made well. The stitching should be regular and securely threaded, offering tight seams and strength where you need it most. Additionally, any glue seams should be clean and tight to prevent the shoes from falling apart. Materials should be flexible but durable and able to withstand the elements for many beach adventures to come.
Keep in mind that the durability of a shoe depends on a variety of factors. From your ability to keep them clean and store them properly, and exposure to elements that are damaging to materials, many things can affect the longevity of your shoes. To help maintain ultimate durability, follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Generally speaking, a thorough rinse with fresh water after wearing at the beach is good for cleaning, sometimes a mild cleanser is needed for tough jobs.
Additionally, the shoes need to be dry thoroughly before ever being stored. If they’re tucked away without completely ridding them of moisture, bacteria, mold or mildew will likely grow and compromise the integrity of the shoes. Not to mention it will create a foul aroma. Lastly, storing the shoes out of direct sunlight is ideal to maintain the materials longevity.
Things to look for in the durability of beach shoes:
- Secure stitching
- Tight glue seams
- Flexible but sturdy materials
- Easy to clean
Shoe Flexibility
A quality beach shoe designed for walking should feature a flexible sole and upper to keep feet comfortable throughout your day on the shore. Not only will your foot need the ability to move while exploring, but it allows for versatility in environments you can explore while wearing the shoes. From climbing, to walking through the rocky shallows, you’ll need a beach shoe that can flex with different marine environments.
Our feet are naturally meant to bend, flex and move as we walk- even more so on less stable surfaces like sand, rock and pebble. With a shoe that doesn’t offer flexibility to the feet, they stay confined and rigid in the shoe which can cause discomfort while walking on the beach.
Additionally, the arches of your feet can experience tension during the day without flexibility in your shoes. One of the softest spots of the foot, this area is often quick to feel discomfort when a shoe doesn’t fit and flex properly with the activity of the wearer. Opt for a pair with plenty of bend and flex to offer ultimate comfort to your feet while adventuring by the sea.
When investing in beach shoes for walking, shoes should:
- feature a flexible sole
- feature a flexible upper
- offer plenty of bend and move while wearing
Although flexibility is important in the shoes you choose, you’ll also need enough support to protect feet during use.
Support
A shoe that prevents your feet from moving naturally is no good, but it should offer enough support to keep feet safe and protected from walking surfaces. Sand, shell, rock and pebble beaches can be tough on feet, and can even cause cuts and abrasions if you’re not careful. The support in the soles of your beach shoes is used both to protect your feet from these environments, and to support your feet and arches in a natural position.
The proper support from shoes while walking on the beach extends the length of time you can explore in comfort and with ease before any cramping or foot stress. Additionally, it prevents discomfort that leads to a ruined adventure or having to invest in a second, or third, pair of shoes. Consider whether you have high arches, or flat feet, and take the time to research the pair you think is best for your needs at the beach. Choose a product that will support your feet and keep them comfortable throughout the day to set yourself up for success at many adventures to come!
Final Thoughts
When you’re planning a trip to the shore, the right gear is essential- and buying the right beach shoes is no exception. Consider your needs on the water to find the best pair for you, and use this guide to help you navigate the available features and how to find durability and longevity in a shoe. Now it’s time to get you walking at the seaside, up close and personal with the beautiful coast!
Are you planning an epic trip to the beach with your friends or family? Or maybe you’re planning a solo trip for relaxation and ultimate peace? We invite you to share your travels with the Seaside Community in the comment section below!
Megan Jones leads the editorial staff of Seaside Planet. They are a multidisciplinary team of outdoor adventurers, water sports lovers, and passionate beach goers. You can learn more about Meg and the rest of the editorial team here.