Best Shoes for Kayaking

Best Shoes for Kayaking

travis_andersen August 15, 2016 5 min read

Kayakers often need to wear shoes that can protect their feet while they are in the water. Some kayakers prefer to wear water shoes, while others prefer to wear sneakers. Some kayakers even choose to go barefoot. It really depends on the kayaker’s preference and the conditions of the water.

If you are going kayaking in a creek or a river with a lot of rocks, you will want to wear water shoes to protect your feet. If you are going kayaking in a lake or the ocean, you may be able to get away with wearing sneakers. It is always a good idea to bring a pair of water shoes with you, just in case. 

What Shoes to Wear Kayaking

If you’re looking for the best kayaking shoes, you’ll want to find a pair of shoes that are both comfortable and durable and ones that are going to keep your feet protected at all times.

There are a few different things that you want to look for when you are choosing shoes for kayaking. The first thing is that you want to make sure that the shoes are waterproof. This is important because you will be getting wet when you are kayaking.

You also want to make sure that the shoes have a good grip. This is important because you will be walking on slippery surfaces when you are kayaking. You also want to make sure that the shoes are comfortable. This is important because you will be walking a lot when you are kayaking.

You may also want to consider shoes made from a synthetic material, such as neoprene, as they will be less likely to get wet and will be more durable than sneakers or other types of shoes. 


It is no doubt that everyone loves sport, well at least most of us to be fair. As the saying goes, work without play makes Jack a dull boy, it is advisable for everyone to set some time off their job and indulge in their favorite sport.

Sport, as change is as good as a rest. Every sport however comes with a particular set of clothes and accessories; think of football, cricket, hockey, formula one races, horse races and even fishing without protective gear and helmet, will be a total mess.

While mentioning all these sports, people tend to forget to include kayaking and water activities in the list. This is where  Kayaking footwear would come in as one of the necessities.Kayaking offers one all the benefits they would get in other sports.

Some of these advantages include flattening and toning of tummy because gliding in water involves a lot of strength, twisting and movement which targets the muscles. It also provides a great upper body workout.

The resistance of the water while fighting currents or even when making your way across the waters gives an adequate strength for your body parts including your back, chest, shoulder and arms. Did you know that you can burn up to 500 calories while kayaking? Yes, this is possible only if you understand how to do it right.

While you might think that this is an exercise to wake up one morning, tie your Kayak on your van and off to the seas, you need to think again.

Think of the gears (that are little talked about), and even the best shoes to use while out in the sport.  In most cases, footwear is the most important aspect that unfortunately is forgotten.

There are many types of kayaking shoes that you can use, and this depends on where and when you will paddle. Simple sandals, for example, are suitable for warm weather, while in extremely low-temperature warm boots should be suggested as the best kayaking footwear.

10 Best Shoes for Kayaking

Neosport wetsuits paddle low tops boots

There is nothing that would keep your feet dry and warm all day like the Neosport wetsuits paddle low tops boots. Neoprene material which the boots are made of has the quality to make the wearer feel warm, while the seams, which are knightly glued and sewn makes sure that no moisture gets into your feet while in the seas. Are you wondering about the special feature the shoes have? This  kayaking footwear comes with an ankle barrel cinch shock cord with an on and off design. Its toes section has a wrap around, while hard sole and durability makes it stand out.

NRS Comm-3 Kayaking wet shoes

If all you are looking for is a mixture of comfort and durability in  kayaking footwear, then you have to choose the NRS Comm-3 kayaking wet shoes. Made from the finest and durable 3mm Neoprene with titanium the shoe assures you of maximum durability.  The same material, 5-mm neoprene is used to make its insole, while the sole itself is made of rubber to make sure that you are comfortable and dry throughout your paddling, and your feet get a good grip when walking on rocks

NRS Boundary Kayaking shoe

Even at extreme temperatures of up to 40F, you can trust these shoes to give you the warmth that you desperately need. They are 15 inch high boots which are made of neoprene, designed to keep you warm for the rest of winter. They also come with a 2 mm plastic shim to protect you from bumps and obstacles. Its  combination of rubber soles with the 7mm insole, assures you of both stability while walking on wet rocks and comfort all at the same time.

Teva men’s ‘Tanza’sandals

Kayaking footwear doesn’t have to be closed shoes all the time. Why not try out the rich synthetic and sporty Teva men’s ‘Tanza’ shoes? With a contoured, footbed and looped hill for comfortability, this sandal reigns supreme.  It is made of neoprene and nylon, for longevity and comfortability.

Neosport wetsuits premium boots

It is cheap durable and gives you the warmth you need when out paddling. It is also made of neoprene and can be used on a wide array of water sports such as paddling, diving, wakeboarding and even Kayaking.

Promate water sport boots

With a 3mm thickness, low cut boot, and a rubber sole, nothing can beat this type of footwear in comfortability and durability. Its traction makes it a perfect outfit for any water sport. The boot comes in various colors and sizes for all sexes.

Astral brewer water shoe

The shoe is made of environmentally friendly materials and comes in different colors and sizes. What more, the shoe can also double up as a regular footwear, outside the sea. If you are interested in kayaking, boating, trail, water sport or just casual activities of the day, then this type of shoes are recommended for you.

Clorts Men’s seaside amphibious water shoe

It’s the trendiest and most preferred outfit for kayaking in nearly every market today. It’s made of PU and about 60% mesh its preferred for its insole is made using materials which allow for sanitized act fresh air. The Clots men’s seaside amphibious water shoes are easy to put on and have got fast lacing buckles.

Vibram fingers treksport

If you like going barefoot sometimes, then you might want to try out the Vibram fingers treksport shoes, as they might be your thing. They are fun, long lasting and good for both kayaking and hiking. One thing for sure about them is that your leg does not sleep even on wet rocks, and they are highly affordable.

Keen Whispers

One might be mistaken to believe that they are casual than water activity shoes. However, they are meant for kayaking on dry weather. They are designed to be narrow in the front so as to get a good hold of your front foot. They are also readily available, and one can use them for casual activities out of the sea.

It is always important to put on something on your feet while going for water activities. Always replace your wet socks with new dry ones and leave them outside to dry before going for another trip. While kayaking is a good sporting event, always invest in the best shoes to ensure your feet do not suffer.