7 Best Kayak Shoes in 2020
The right footwear makes no less than the difference between a really cool trip and a failed outing when kayaking. The right kayak shoes do not have to be expensive. Simple, functional shoes that protect your feet and are comfortable to wear are perfectly adequate.
However, you do need a pair of kayak shoes. Some people go barefoot on tour or just wear street shoes. Ordinary kayak shoes, however, are much better designed for kayaking conditions. They provide good traction on wet surfaces, protect your feet from injury and also keep you warm. Especially in combination with a kayak dry suit you are completely shielded from the outside temperature.
In the following we will take a look at some models that have been tested in kayak shoes or otherwise already proven in practice. After that we will give you some tips on what you should look for when choosing a good pair.
The choice of available kayak and water sport shoes is meanwhile large. Especially for beginners it is difficult to decide for a pair (and therefore against the others). In the following we therefore look at a number of excellent kayak shoes, which have their own advantages and disadvantages, but are all a good choice.
The best kayak shoes
| # | Product | Rating | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
1 |  | Mishansha Mens Womens Water Shoes | |
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2 |  | KEEN Women's Whisper Sandal, Dark | |
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3 |  | Water Shoes Mens Womens Beach Quick | |
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4 |  | SIMARI Womens Mens Sports Water | |
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5 |  | Mens Womens Water Shoes Outdoor | |
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6 |  | UBFEN Water Shoes Aqua Shoes Swim | |
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7 |  | AFT AFFINEST Mens Womens Water | |
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Guide: Choose a pair of kayak shoes
When choosing kayak boots for your next adventure, there are a few aspects to consider. The size, material, design and the planned area of use are among them.
field of application
The weather and temperatures are the most important things to look out for when choosing. Water sports enthusiasts know this, but sometimes people forget how cold water can get. Kayakers who are mainly out in warm summer temperatures should choose different kayak shoes than kayakers who are also out in winter.
For cold water temperatures you need kayak shoes made of neoprene, which are 5 to 7 mm thick. With neoprene shoes your feet get wet at first, but the thick neoprene layer warms even in icy cold water.
In warm weather, thin, breathable shoes are the right choice. Shoes with a thin neoprene layer, made of rubber or special sandals are more suitable. This type of kayak shoe does not warm as much, but still offers a good grip and protects the feet from sharp objects.
various types
There are three different types of kayak shoes. The distinction depends on the height of the shoes. For example, a distinction is made between shoes that end below or above the ankle or just before the knee.
All variants of kayak shoes have their own advantages and disadvantages. For example, shoes that end below the ankle are very comfortable and light, as they are usually made of light materials such as rubber or neoprene. These kayak shoes are the ideal choice for warm weather days.
Shoes that cover the ankle, on the other hand, offer more protection, are warmer and are usually thicker, which is why these shoes can also be used to step on sharp stones.
The boots that go up to the knee offer the best protection and insulation. The reason for this is that they are made of a thick layer of neoprene. For cold temperatures and kayaking in winter, the kayak boots are best suited.
The sole also plays an important role. A thicker sole provides better protection against rocks and sharp stones. A good grip is also essential. Moss-covered rocks are very slippery. Only kayak shoes with a good profile offer the necessary safety on them.
material
Neoprene is used for the vast majority of kayak shoes. The reason is that this material keeps you warm and is also very flexible. Neoprene shoes are available in different thicknesses and can therefore be adapted to the respective outside temperatures.
The sole is often made of rubber or caoutchouc, offers a lot of stability and protects the foot from injuries caused by stones or sharp objects. Some kayak shoes are made entirely of rubber.
size
If the shoes are the wrong size, this can have unpleasant consequences. For example, shoes that are too tight – especially when they are wet – can pinch and damage the skin on the feet. For this reason, you should try on kayak shoes before you buy them and try on several shoe sizes.
If you want to buy kayak shoes online, it’s best to look at the reviews of previous buyers. Often the customer reviews contain helpful hints for determining the shoe size.
price
The best kayak shoes do not have to cost a fortune. However, models that are too cheap should not be chosen either. After all, the shoes should be comfortable, long lasting and offer good protection.
Additional functionality and a higher wearing comfort are often reflected in a higher price. In our best list you will find products from both sides of the spectrum. We present cheap, simple models as well as kayak shoes for advanced and real kayak pros.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about kayak shoes
How tight should kayak shoes be?
Kayak shoes should be neither too tight nor too wide. Wearing too tight kayak shoes quickly becomes uncomfortable. Especially when the shoes are wet. On the other hand, too wide kayak shoes fill up with water, which gives a strange feeling when running and can also lead to blisters because of all the friction.
Are kayak shoes also worn on a sit-on-top kayak?
Because of their open shape, sit-on-top kayaks are better suited for warmer temperatures. Many kayakers who are in this type of kayaks wear thin kayak shoes or special sandals when paddling.
Conclusion
Hopefully our best list and the shopping guide have helped you. The kayak shoes presented here each have their strengths and weaknesses, but all models are excellent shoes for kayakers, guaranteed to make your next kayaking adventure even better.
