Last Updated on June 9, 2022 by Ecorf
Hiking in wet and slippery conditions can be challenging if you do not have special shoes. It is essential to get the best shoes for river hiking that can help prevent you from unprecedented falls. Water shoes also offer you toe protection when you are performing different sports.
This article, therefore, gives you tips about the factors that you need to consider to get the right river hiking shoe. The article also highlights the benefits of river hiking shoes under wet conditions. The best water shoes will also be reviewed.
Table of Contents
Benefits of River Hiking Shoes
Water shoes are specially designed to withstand different types of surfaces and they can also support strenuous activity. The water shoes have good traction and grip that help to protect you against falling when hiking on wet and slippery terrain.
The shoes provide you stability on different smooth underwater surfaces. The shoes are also designed to give you comfort so that you can enjoy a stress-free hiking experience. You can also get water shoes with adjustable strap system to suit your needs.
The other benefit of water shoes is that they offer protection to your feet so that you do not get injured by sharp objects when trailing in different environments. The water shoes dry quickly which is another great advantage. The shoes are also made of lightweight and breathable material to keep your feet fresh.
How to Choose the Best Shoes for River Hiking?
There are many features that you should consider in order to get the ideal shoe for water hiking. The following are helpful factors that can help you make informed decisions.
Material and Durability of the Shoes
The primary thing that you should consider when buying water shoes pertains to the quality of material. Water shoes have different components such as uppers and soles and these are made of different materials. These components help to decide the level of support as well as comfort that you can get from the shoes.
The other major consideration when buying water shoes is about durability of the material. The shoes are made of different types of material and some are stronger than others. It is therefore essential to choose shoes that can withstand different types of environments such that they can last longer. This will save you money in the long run if you buy durable shoes.
You should also check the quality of the rubber outer soles if they have good traction. These can help you tread rocky and slippery surfaces without risking injuring yourself. Shoes with sturdy soles offer you support and balance to help you perform different activities.
The other significant thing to consider is the breathability of the shoes. It is recommended that you can buy shoes with breathable mesh material that helps to keep your feet fresh. You should also check if the shoes have sufficient cushioning to give you comfort while hiking in different places.
Design and Fit of the Shoes
Water shoes come in different designs and you should take these into account. Some shoes have open designs like sandals while others are closed. For instance, designs for water shoes include the following: sneakers, sandals, booties and five toes.
These designs are meant to serve a purpose so you should know how you want to use the water shoes before buying them. You can just pick a pair of shoes that offer you maximum support and comfort during your hike. Remember your style determines the type of shoes that you can get.
You must also make sure that the type of shoes that you choose can save you from elements like abrasion and injuries. The design should also help to drain water from the shoes so that you can have a comfortable hike. Your feet should stay free of water so as to keep them healthy.
Maintenance of the Shoes
Water shoes come in different designs and it is your duty to check if the shoes are easy to maintain. Water shoes require different detergents when washing them so you should also check for such factors. Other shoes consist of anti-odor technologies and these can save you the effort of cleaning them.
Price
Above all, you should consider the element of price. Prices vary according to factors such as brand as well as quality among other factors. You must therefore make sure that you choose a product that is within your set budget. It is also essential to check customer reviews so you get an idea about the quality of the shoes through reading comments by people who have used the shoes.
Review of the Best Shoes for River Hiking
There are different shoes that you can choose for hiking and the following are examples. You should try to compare as many shoes as possible before you make your final decision to buy the desired one.
KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Sandal
This classic water sandal is designed to give you maximum comfort and aeration of your feet. It also boasts of toe protection and it is versatile. You can use it for activities like hiking, walking, and other sporting activities. The sandal is lightweight and it can perfectly fit your foot. It also has a secure lace system.
The sandal has superb traction that helps you to maintain your balance in different types of terrain. The other plus for this sandal is that it is washable and it requires only a little amount of detergent and it dries quickly.
Pros
- Durable polyester material
- Washable
- Lug sole
- PFC free materials
- Excellent traction
Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Aero Sport Hiking Water Shoe
Merrell Men’s water hiking shoe is lightweight and it also boasts of breathable upper mesh that helps to give you comfort along your trail. The water shoe is 100% vegan-friendly and its lace system gives you a precise fit. The tongue helps to keep debris at bay while the TPU heel counter is designed to provide excellent stability.
The other handsome feature about this shoe is that its mesh lining consists of M Select Fresh technology that helps to fight odor. This technology helps to freshen your feet for a longer period. The foam footbed is also designed to give your comfort.
Pros
- Breathable manmade mesh
- Durable upper synthetic
- Lug sole for added traction
- Odor-preventing technologies
Cons
- A bit expensive
ATIKA Women’s Maya Trail Outdoor Water Shoes Sport Sandals
The Maya strap sandal has a good design and it is open for maximum aeration to keep your feet fresh. The nylon straps are durable and the sandal also has shock padding that is designed to give you support and comfort. The padding also holds the feet in place to give you support while you are navigating through different wet environments.
The sandal also has a Velcro strap at the back that helps to keep the foot in place. The inner sole is also designed to contour your feet while the midsole gives you excellent cushioning together with long-lasting comfort. The outer sole provides perfect traction for both wet and dry surfaces.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable nylon material for straps
- Perfect traction
- Long-lasting comfort
Cons
- No toe protection
Dreamcity Men’s Water Shoes
The Dreamcity shoes are lightweight and they consist of 90 percent breathable fabric. The upper mesh is durable and the shoe also consists of a strong rubber sole with good traction. The solyte midsole offers perfect bounce-back that also helps to give you comfort.
The outsole is water grip and it can give you wonderful traction in slippery and wet conditions. The sock liner creates a cooler environment for your feet. The other notable aspect of the shoe is that it dries quickly.
Pros
- Perfect traction
- Cheapest water shoe
- Breathable material
- Dries quickly
MOERDENG Men’s Quick Drying Water Shoes
MOERDENG Water Shoes are lightweight, very comfortable and quick drying. You can wear the shoes over a long period under wet conditions without any issue. The breathable aqua shoes have a good grip and they are suitable for a variety of outdoor exercises.
The shoe also boasts of solyte midsole which offers perfect bounce back for maximum comfort along your trail. The open mesh on top also provides exceptional breathability and it dries quickly. The inner sock liner also helps to provide superior cushioning performance that creates a cooler environment.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Durable material
- Dries quickly
Conclusion
From the reviewed shoes for river hiking above, Dreamcity Men’s Water Shoes is probably the best. In terms of price, it is the cheapest. The water shoe is lightweight, durable, offers comfort and it is also breathable.
However, other types of water shoes also share similar features. Therefore, you should conduct your research first before rushing into buying a specific type of shoe. Above all, your final decision is a matter of personal preference.