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Some water shoes are highly protective and rugged, while others are lightweight and almost socklike.
Courtesy of the brands / Laneen Wells
Not sure which pair is right for you?
We found the best options to try, according to experts, SELF testers, and online reviewers.
I’m blown away by how soft and cushioned they are, one tester wrote.
Wore these bad boys and did not slip once!
10/10, wrote one Teva reviewer.
The fact that they cost about half of some of our other picks certainly doesnt hurt, either.
I wear them both to the supermarket and on six-mile dayhikes.
Even this writer (and her pancake-flat feet) loves Chacos signature arch support.
As a water shoe, the Classic Z/1s are just as impressive.
Just what I was looking for to take on an Arkansas river float, wrote one REI reviewer.
Good traction on the rocks.
Feet stayed warmer in the cool water.
For even more coverage, NRS also makesbootie-style wetshoes.
Check them out below.
Its flexible and light, so even though its a closed-toe shoe, it still provides a barefoot feel.
Your priorities should be traction, protection, and support.
As Sweeney puts it, Test your gear!
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