Best SUP Shoes for Paddle Board in 2023

This is the ultimate buyer’s guide to the Best Sup Shoes Paddle Board Shoes.

We recommend using VIFUUR Water Sports Unisex Shoes Black – 9-10 W US / 7.5-8.5 M US (40-41) as a high-quality product.

Have you tried SUP Water Sports Shoes?

We have a pair for sale that will be perfect for your next paddleboarding adventure.

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The Best Sup Shoes in 2023

While SUP Water Sports Shoes are a great way to be active and have fun, they must fit correctly.

Contact us if you’re unsure what size is right for your feet.

Our store has been selling these shoes since 2018 with over four years of experience in the industry!

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Top 3 Best Paddle Board Shoes (SUP Shoes)

Is deck or water shoes compulsory while paddleboarding, or should you go naturally by paddling barefoot? Wearing a water shoe is undoubtedly not required, while paddling g buys it is prohibited.

It should be your preference, and your paddling style will play a vital role in deciding whether you need a paddleboard shoe. The serious freestyle SUPer, racer, or surfer may claim that barefoot on the board is the only way you should go.

Alternatively, casual paddleboarders will suggest you wear shoes during paddling. Let’s find out below whether to wear or not to wear paddleboard shoes and the best paddleboard shoes if you choose to wear one.

What Are Water Shoes or Paddle Board Shoes (SUP shoes)?

A water shoe or paddleboard shoe is footwear generally used for water activities where your feet become wet, such as kayaking, paddling, surfing, etc.

Water shoes are typically made of mesh material and come with a stiff sole to prevent abrasions and cuts when walking in rocky, wet environments.

Top 3 Shoes For Paddleboarding

Below we’ve chosen the top 3 best paddleboard shoes ideal for SUP boarding, other water sports, and outdoor adventures.

We have listed three models for men, women, and kids individually.

ADIDAS OUTDOOR TERREX JAWPAW 2 – FOR MEN

If you hit the water body on your Stand-up paddleboard and are looking for the best quality shoe, you can get a pair of Adidas Outdoor Terrex Jawpaw 2 models.

This shoe combines rubber and textile and is designed and made as an easy slip-on shoe with a pull tab for easy use, better support, and comfort.

SPECS & FEATURES:

Rubber non-slip sole

Pull-on design

Designed for maximum drainage system

“Climacool” 360° cooling

PROS:

Great traction & grip

Easy pull-on tabs to make the taking-off process easier

Fast drainage

Sock-like fit

CONS:

Suitable for water only, so do not take on the sand

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ALEADER MESH SLIP-ON – FOR WOMEN

These Mesh Slip-On water shoes from ALEADER tick nearly every box, and thus it makes the shoe one of the best overall options for women paddlers.

The incomparable lightweight feel of the shoe will make you hop on rocks, fly through rivers, and paddle to victory quickly.

SPECS & FEATURES

Comfortable dry sock liner

Open mesh at the top

Rubber sole

Durable and breathable air mesh

PROS

Washable, and thus it is easy to clean

Exceptional insole cushioning

Wonderful comfortable fit

Offers excellent grip

CONS

Not suitable for extended wear

STRIDE RITE MADE 2 PLAY-FOR KIDS

Are you among those who love taking their kids with them for a water adventure? This Stride Rite Made 2 Water Shoes is perfect for your kid. This shoe offers bizarre protection for your little ones’ feet and thus gives you peace of mind when exploring the wilderness.

SPECS & FEATURES:

Mesh lining

Rubber sole

Velcro strap for security

Memory foam insole

PROS

Sneaker style shoe

The Toe wrap is there for additional protection

Easy to wash

CONS

Wear out quickly

What To Look For In The Water Shoes?

Finding the best pair of water shoes depends on a few specific factors. When buying, you should consider the following:

• Materials
• Sizes
• Comfort
• Insole / Outsole
• Breathability
• Durability

Considering the above factors before buying will keep your foot safe while SUPing…

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Materials

The best water shoes are made using either mesh or neoprene. These materials are precisely selected for a good reason.

Neoprene is ideal for water adventure lovers who are open water swimming, paddle boarding, scuba diving, or surfing.

The optimal thing about neoprene is that you get additional thermal comfort, perfect for keeping the toes warm even in the cooler seasons.

If you’re looking for trekking shoes, go for those made up of mesh. With mesh, you get ventilation, breathability, and also water flow. It is perfect for paddle sports, boating, and general beach use.

Sizes

Unlike regular shoes, water shoes must be snug and tight. You do not want your shoe to fall off when you hit the water.

If you buy the shoe from a local store, check the size there with a trial, but if you believe your shoe online, do not forget to see the size guides given by the manufacturer. You can go a size down for the ideal fit, as you will not wear socks.

Comfort

This is among the most critical aspects of water shoes. You can get the most comfortable pair of shoes depending on the size and materials.

A few features provide extra ease and comfort to your feet. Look for elasticated bands, easy-pull tabs, padded e, heel areas, draining capabilities, and rubber outsoles.

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Insole

The insoles of water shoes need to be breathable and flexible and provide sufficient cushion for ease. For the best drying time, you must look for removable insoles.

Outsole

Water shoes must fit just like a sock. However, it should also allow a perfect ultra-grip sole to walk pain-free over reefs and rocks. Ensure you get an ultra-grip sole matching your planned foot protection activity.

Breathability

Maximum water shoes provide fantastic breathability using mesh material, keeping your feet cool and allowing your feet to dry fast.

Heavyweight water shoes sometimes have drying holes in the upper panels or soles to provide better results when fully submerged.

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Durability

Although water shoes are very lightweight, this doesn’t mean that you compromise on the shoe’s durability. All water shoes are designed for specific activities.

There’s no reason why your water shoe should not last for numerous seasons with proper use and care.

Wash your shoes after use, especially after contact with salt water, and then allow the shoe for proper drying.

ProsCold-weather paddleboarders need neoprene booties or shoes to keep their feet warm.

Best for people who are not comfortable paddling barefoot

It helps to keep your feet dry and safe

Protect your feet from infections by keeping your feet away from dirty water.r

Cons

SUP boarding needs your foot muscles to stay on the paddleboard, but when you wear a shoe, you won’t have that much grip

Without a shoe, you need to work harder with your feet to stay on the board, but when you wear a shoe with excellent grip capacity, you lose the chance to work out while enjoying nature.

You may lose your balance if the shoe does not have a good grip

BOTTOM LINE

Water shoes or paddleboard shoes are mainly designed with an efficient drainage system for doing water-based activities safely.

A pair of paddleboard shoes can save you from hideously stumbling over rocky beaches, offer support, and give you extra grip with its rubber outsole. These shoes often come with an adjustable velcro strap for a secure fit.

Read NEXT – Best Water Sports Shoes For You

FAQ

Q. Should you wear shoes for SUP?

A. For the best SUP boarding experience, wearing a pair of paddleboard shoes or water shoes is bettered. Although there is no such rule, it is better to wear shoes for SUP. It will provide you with comfort and support.

Q. Do you need water shoes for SUP?

A. No, wearing water shoes for SUP boarding is not compulsory. But please wear one.

Q: What are SUP Shoes?

A: SUP Shoes, also known as water shoes for paddle boarding, are specialized water shoes designed to provide grip, support, and protection while stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). They are made to withstand the high-intensity and sometimes harsh conditions of watersports activities.

Q: Why do I need SUP Shoes?

A: SUP Shoes are necessary for several reasons. They protect your feet from sharp objects in the water, provide traction on slippery surfaces, and support your ankle and arch. They keep your feet comfortable and warm in cold water paddling and help prevent cramping or injury while paddling.

Q: What are the best water shoes for paddle boarding?

A: Some top water shoes for paddle boarding include NRS Kinetic Water Shoes, Body Glove Dynamo Ribcage Water Shoes, and 3T Barefoot Max Water Shoes. These shoes are all quality pairs with features such as a grippy sole, integrated drainage system, and stretchy neoprene material.

Q: Can I wear regular shoes for paddle boarding?

A: It is not recommended to wear regular shoes for paddle boarding as they may become damaged or uncomfortable in the water. Regular shoes also lack the necessary features that SUP Shoes provide, such as traction, support, and protection.

Q: What should I look for in a pair of SUP Shoes?

A: When choosing the best SUP Shoes, look for features such as a grippy sole, stretchy neoprene material, integrated drainage system, and a mesh upper to allow breathability. Choose a shoe that fits well, supports your feet and ankle, and is comfortable for long periods.

Q: Can I wear socks with my SUP Shoes?

A: You can wear socks with your SUP Shoes, but it is unnecessary. Wearing socks may hinder the grip and support that SUP Shoes provide. Neoprene paddling shoes are specially designed for paddling and have built-in insulation to keep your feet warm even in cold water.

Q: Are SUP Shoes unisex?

A: Many brands of SUP Shoes offer both men’s and women’s sizes, and some shoes are designed to be unisex. When buying SUP Shoes, choosing the right size and fit for your feet is essential to ensure maximum comfort and support.

Q: Can I wear my SUP Shoes for other water sports?

A: Many SUP Shoes are versatile and suitable for other water sports such as kayaking, rafting, and snorkeling. They offer the exact grip, support, and protection for your feet in any watersport activity.

Q: How do I know if my SUP Shoes fit correctly?

A: Try your SUP Shoes on with the socks you plan to wear, and make sure they fit snugly but comfortably. Ensure that your toes have room to move and that the shoes support your arch and ankle. Walk around in your shoes to ensure they don’t slip or rub against your skin.

Q: Can I wear barefoot shoes for paddleboarding?

A: It is possible to wear barefoot shoes for paddleboarding, but it is not recommended. Barefoot shoes lack the support, protection, and grip that SUP Shoes provide and may increase your risk of injury or discomfort while paddling.

Q: Do I need to break in my SUP Shoes?

A: It is essential to wear your SUP Shoes before paddling to ensure they fit well and are comfortable. Gradually wear them for short periods and increase the time as you feel comfortable. This will help your feet adjust to the shoes and prevent discomfort or blisters while paddling.

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