Waterside Footwear for Every Adventure

Travel Writers
Fri, 10 Apr 2026 21:00:00 -0700
Lifestyle

By Nicola Bridges

Whether you're navigating the slippery deck of a catamaran, trekking along a mossy riverside trail or simply strolling the boardwalk after a day at the beach, your feet will thank you if you're wearing the right treads.

I've found that transitions between travels on land and sea require a unique blend of drainage, traction and, of course, style. From recovery slides that feel like a foot hug to high-performance amphibious sneakers, we've rounded up the best footwear to keep you moving comfortably — wherever the water calls.
Updated: Sat Apr 11, 2026

By Nicola Bridges

Whether you're navigating the slippery deck of a catamaran, trekking along a mossy riverside trail or simply strolling the boardwalk after a day at the beach, your feet will thank you if you're wearing the right treads.

I've found that transitions between travels on land and sea require a unique blend of drainage, traction and, of course, style. From recovery slides that feel like a foot hug to high-performance amphibious sneakers, we've rounded up the best footwear to keep you moving comfortably — wherever the water calls.

The Versatile Voyager: Skiff2, by Made Plus: A classic boat shoe is a maritime staple, whether you're at the helm or just lounging on deck. Unlike your grandfather's heavy leather boat loafer, the Skiff2 is an ecofriendly deck shoe designed for the contemporary adventurer. It features a breathable design that prevents dreaded swamp foot on humid, soaking sojourns, providing all-day comfort. An award-winner by boating associations, the Skiff2s' non-slip grip and sustainable materials make them a win for your wardrobe, sailing safety and watery environments.

The Urban Amphibian: Trvl Lite Cabrillo Sneaker, by Toms: Toms has long been my go-to for comfy, casual travel, and the Trvl Lite Carbillo Sneaker in Black Diamond Global Woven design is a game-changer for waterside city-hopping. Their sporty but minimalist aesthetic masks their powerhouse functionality. The shoe uppers are treated with Scotchgard to repel water and stains. And if you get caught in a drizzle or a stray wave hitting a pier, these sneakers pretty much stay dry. With stretch laces for easy on-and-off during boardwalk-to-beach sand transitions, for me they're the ultimate one-shoe solution for a carry-on-only frequent-traveler lifestyle.

The High-Performance Hybrid: Hydra ESC, by Vivobarefoot: If your adventures involve more wild-water rafting or hardcore swimming and less waterside lounging and strolling, the Vivobarefoot Hydra ESC is a technical marvel. Designed for the sport of swim-run, these shoes are built to move seamlessly between a trail and the water. Their minimalist soles provide the sensory feedback Vivobarefoot is known for, while their hydro-drainage system ensures you aren't slogging water weight when you step back onto dry land.

The Elevated Essential: Dream Pairs Flip-Flops, by Dream Pairs. I've found not all flip-flops are created equal, and Dream Pairs proves that this beach and poolside classic can be both stylish and supportive. These aren't your average flimsy drugstore toe thongs — they feature a deep heel cup and lightweight outsole for actual arch support. Their wave-patterned footbed also provides much-needed traction on wet surfaces, while their soft-fabric uppers and anti-chafing thong mean you won't be needing blister care after a long day flip-flopping along.

The Ultimate Chic Recovery: Wingwoman Comfort Slide, by Oliver Thomas: After pushing your feet paddleboarding or hiking to a hidden waterfall, they deserve some rewarding R&R. Enter the Wingwoman Comfort Recovery Slide, described as "the biggest cuddle your feet will ever receive" — and that's no exaggeration. These podiatrist-designed slides feel like clouds. They feature technology to relieve plantar pressure and a quilted footbed that acts like little baby pillows. They're lightweight, machine washable, and come in vibrant green and red, perfect for a poolside party.

The All-Weather Wet Champion: Bailey Molded Clog, by Totes: If your waterside adventures involve muddy riverbanks or rainy campsites, the Totes Bailey Molded Clog is your lightweight best friend. They're waterproof, puncture-proof and designed to virtually never wear out. The closed-toed design offers extra protection, but fun prints such as leopard and floral keep the look playful. They're perfect for putting your best wet foot forward from the garden to the lakefront.

I also flip-flop between packing Totes' Puffy Platform Slides and Perforated Slides, depending on my destination. The Puffy Platform Slide's trendy puff aesthetic is perfectly stylish and chic for a luxury resort or spa, while providing sturdy-but-comfortable arch support. On the other hand (or should I say, foot), the Perforated Slide is a perfect no-fuss option for slippery spa or campsite shower cubicles, poolside, or schlepping across seaside sand. Water and air flow freely through their waterproof-but-breathable perforated design, making them a great non-slip and quick-drying grab-and-go easy-pack option for any aquatic excursion.

The Airy Explorer: AllSwift, by Nortive8: When your itinerary calls for a long day of exploring damp coastal or humid trails, the AllSwift mesh sneaker is, literally, a breath of fresh air. They are ultra-lightweight sneakers with a mesh upper engineered to provide maximum ventilation, so your feet stay cool and dry even when the humidity spikes. They have a flexible sole that mimics natural foot movement and provide sturdy protection for wet and rocky terrain, making them an ideal breathable pick for active travelers.

WHEN YOU GO

For more information:

Madeplus.com

Toms.com

Vivobarefoot.com

Dreampairs.com

Theoliverthomas.com

Totes.com

Nortive8shoes.com

The stylish and sustainable Skiff2 series by Made Plus has a durable tread and non-marking soles made by Michelin to keep you steady on any wet surface from land to sea. Photo by Lexi Pline Photography courtesy of Made Plus.

These easy-slip-on-and-off Bailey Molded Clogs by Totes are comfortable, waterproof and durably great for days spent on a waterside deck or strolling along a beach boardwalk. Photo courtesy of Totes.

Oliver Thomas Wingwoman Comfort Recovery Slides ease you from a strenuous day of strolling to the spa or a poolside party, giving your feet a relaxing cuddle treat with a crowning touch of bling. Photo courtesy of Oliver Thomas.

Nicola Bridges is a freelance writer. To read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.