Heading to the seaside for a sandy stroll can rapidly change into a problem with out the correct footwear—assume waterlogged sneakers that collapse or itchy particles that makes your sneakers uncomfortable. Fortuitously, the very best seaside strolling sneakers can considerably improve your seaside exercises, says podiatrist Bruce Pinker, DPM. Plus, spending time by the water presents quite a few psychological, emotional, and bodily advantages, making seaside strolling a wonderful low-impact train, provides licensed private coach Nicholas Duran, NASM, CPT.
To seek out the very best sneakers for seaside strolling, we first consulted specialists to study extra about what key options to search for. Pinker suggests searching for a snug, supportive, quick-drying pair that’s absolutely waterproof and simple to wash. With our specialists’ steerage, we examined dozens of pairs of sneakers in our every day routines. We evaluated every possibility primarily based on match, consolation, cushioning, traction, sturdiness, and worth to search out the highest choices available on the market.
Key Specs
Kind: Sneaker | Sizes: Girls’s 5-12 (medium, huge), Males’s 7-15 (medium, huge, extra-wide) | Supplies: Artificial higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Sure | Our Total Score: 5/5
Who They’re For
Finest in case you want a sneaker’s full protection and assist for strolling or operating on the sand.
Why We Love Them
For optimum assist on the sand, we suggest New Stability’s Contemporary Foam Arishi v4 GTX Operating Sneakers. They function the cushioning and assist usually present in an everyday athletic sneaker, together with full waterproofing (because of the GORE-TEX higher). We examined these in numerous moist situations, together with a downpour, on moist grass, and in 90-degree wet climate. Our exercise socks and ft stayed utterly dry on all adventures.
These sneakers match true to dimension, with a large toe field permitting your toes to splay naturally for added stability. We additionally admire that they are obtainable in huge widths to cater to completely different foot shapes. On check walks and runs, we discovered that the full-length foam midsole presents a bouncy cushion and dependable assist. These are a few of the most comfortable waterproof sneakers we have ever examined. Plus, the rubber outsole proved grippy on slick surfaces. We by no means felt unstable or unsafe on moist grass, concrete, or rocks. And we love how simple these are to wash.
Additionally obtainable in males’s sizes at Amazon and New Stability.
Potential Flaws
- Some wearers word that these are likely to run small.
Most Helpful Perception
“These sneakers had been nice at protecting my ft dry and made out of doors actions extra pleasant when it was raining.” —Stacey W., Verywell Match product tester
Key Specs
Kind: Sandal | Sizes: Girls’s 5-12 | Supplies: Recycled plastic and polyester higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: No | Our Total Score: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Finest in case you’re searching for a flexible strolling sandal that may take you from the seaside to brunch.
Why We Love Them
Teva’s Girls’s Tirra Sandals function three adjustable straps, permitting for a safe, custom-like match. The hook-and-loop closures on all three straps make for fast and simple changes, so that they’re by no means too tight or too unfastened. We admire that these sneakers are comprised of quick-drying supplies and a peppermint-based anti-odor remedy, protecting our ft dry and odor-free. The midsole gives mild cushioning and arch assist, complemented by a contoured footbed that felt snug from the second we put the sneakers on.
Throughout testing, we discovered that further padding within the heel helps soak up shock and places a spring in our step (nearly mimicking the texture of a sneaker). The straps are lined with neoprene foam to forestall harsh edges or seams from digging into the pores and skin. One tester with plantar fasciitis famous that they’d no flare-ups whereas sporting these. Plus, they proved secure and sturdy on all terrains and climate situations.
Potential Flaws
- These sneakers aren’t utterly waterproof, however we had no points with getting our ft moist because of the quick-drying, anti-odor supplies.
Most Helpful Perception
“These are undoubtedly sturdy sneakers that may final me for greater than a summer season’s price of lengthy walks and regular put on throughout the day.” —Jodi E., Verywell Match product tester
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Teva’s Tirra Sandals really feel well-made, provide good arch assist, and have foam midsoles.
Credit score: Verywell Match
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The sandals have three adjustable straps and are very simple to keep up.
Credit score: Verywell Match
Key Specs
Kind: Sandal | Sizes: Girls’s 4-12.5, Males’s 4-16.5 | Supplies: Nubuck leather-based higher, microfiber and foam midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: No | Our Total Score: 4.5/5
Who They’re For
Finest in case you want a secure strolling sandal for each out of doors adventures and every day put on.
Why We Love Them
Uneven, gentle sand requires sneakers that present stability and forestall ankle rolling. ECCO’s Girls’s Yucatan Sport Sandals are designed to satisfy this want with a thick sole and agency cushioning. Though the only is extra inflexible than different choices, offering added sturdiness, it nonetheless bends and flexes with our ft on uneven terrains, together with concrete, grass, sand, and gravel. The three neoprene-lined, easy-to-adjust straps guarantee a safe, locked-in match.
Throughout testing, we seen {that a} gentle curve within the outsole facilitated easy transitions. Moreover, the sandals supplied stable arch assist, protecting us snug and stopping foot fatigue. The insole’s microfiber lining feels exceptionally gentle, with no chafing. And even after we obtained these sandals tremendous soiled, they proved simple to wash with a easy wipe-down utilizing a Magic Eraser.
Additionally obtainable in males’s sizes at Amazon.
Potential Flaws
- Throughout warm-weather walks, we seen that our ft grew to become a bit sizzling and sweaty. In the event you’re vulnerable to sweaty ft, you would possibly need to take into account a extra moisture-wicking sandal.
Most Helpful Perception
“There’s a large amount of stability in these once I’m strolling (from the second my foot picks up off the bottom to the second the highest of my foot touches the ground). There is a good quantity of curve on the underside of the sneakers, which does an honest job once I’m strolling on completely different surfaces.” —Stella Y., Verywell Match product tester
Verywell Match/Tatiana Kennedy
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Drainage holes within the sole
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Sock-like match with nice arch assist
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Handy slip-on design
Key Specs
Kind: Sneaker | Sizes: Males’s 7-16, Girls’s 5.5-11 | Supplies: Mesh higher, rubber outsole | Waterproof: No | Our Total Score: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Finest for diving into swimming, trekking by means of trails, strolling on the seaside, and every other journey the place your ft are certain to be drenched.
Why We Love Them
In the event you’ll be spending loads of time within the water, investing in sneakers that defend your ft is a brilliant selection. Doussprt’s Fast Drying Water Sneakers function a sturdy rubber outsole to defend in opposition to rocks and damaged shells. We examined these sneakers in moist climate situations, on slick terrains, and through every day actions. They provide a sock-like match and surprisingly good arch assist for his or her light-weight design. And the mesh higher and holes within the sole enable for fast drainage and quick drying whenever you’re out of the water.
We had been pleasantly shocked by the mesh higher’s assist in each moist and dry situations. We additionally appreciated the minimal design, which makes it simple to tuck these sneakers into our backpack pocket for handy transport to and from the seaside. The rubber soles present dependable traction on most slippery surfaces, though we did expertise some slight slipping on moist grass throughout testing. These sneakers have rapidly change into our go-to for out of doors actions and provide nice worth for the value.
Additionally obtainable in ladies’s sizes at Amazon.
Potential Flaws
- We did not discover any put on and tear throughout testing, however we did word that the light-weight mesh material won’t maintain up past one or two seasons with heavy use.
Most Helpful Perception
“The sneakers do little to repel water, as an alternative choosing fast drying as evidenced by the supplies used and the design, just like the open spots within the soles. Any water absorbed is rapidly expelled, so you are not left with a waterlogged weight round your foot.” —Steven S., Verywell Match product tester
Key Specs
Kind: Slide | Sizes: Unisex 4-15 | Supplies: Foam | Waterproof: Sure | Our Total Score: 4.6/5
Who They’re For
Finest for wearers searching for a light-weight, easy-to-put-on shoe for every day seaside strolling.
Why We Love Them
Generally, a easy, easy-to-slip-on slide is all you want. Crocs’ Mellow Restoration Slides are perfect for beachcombing and provide wonderful consolation to your ft and legs throughout lengthy walks or after a tiring day. Their seamless design prevents irritation, blisters, and sizzling spots. We appreciated their sturdiness and high quality, which held up all through testing. And the open, breathable design with facet cutouts stored our ft cool.
Throughout testing, we discovered the froth so comfortable that it felt like strolling on a cloud. The slides molded comfortably to the form of our ft, making them extremely enjoyable to placed on after an extended day. They’re additionally moderately priced and are available in a number of colours, making it simple so as to add a number of pairs to your wardrobe. We additionally appreciated that the foam outsole is barely grippy and ridged, offering added traction to make sure you keep regular in your ft, whatever the terrain.
Potential Flaws
- The chunky fashion makes these slides a bit cumbersome, however we nonetheless discovered them extremely light-weight and ethereal to stroll with.
Most Helpful Perception
“These slides are very well-cushioned. The entire mattress of the shoe is comprised of a thick foam and there may be further cushioning within the arch which is very nice since I’ve flat ft.” —Britney J., Verywell Match product tester
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The Crocs Mellow Restoration Slide has a light-weight really feel and is straightforward to slide on.
Credit score: Verywell Match
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The Crocs Mellow Restoration Slide has a seamless, one-piece design that could be cumbersome for some.
Credit score: Verywell Match
Key Specs
Kind: Sandal | Sizes: Males’s 7-15 | Supplies: Recycled polyester higher, artificial midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: No | Our Total Score: 4.4/5
Who They’re For
Finest for tackling actions that demand excessive traction or navigating additional slippery situations.
Why We Love Them
KEEN’s Drift Creek H2 Water Sandals are our prime decide for males’s sandals, because of their wonderful grip in each moist and dry situations. Throughout testing, we climbed a slick, steep hill with full confidence and with out slipping. The outsole is fabricated from high-traction, non-marking rubber that additionally handles gravel, rocks, sand, and dirt with ease. Not solely do the sneakers really feel sturdy and sturdy, however the rubber toe bumper gives additional safety in opposition to stones and tough terrain.
We love that the sandals function a slip-in design with a lace-lock bungee system that cinches snugly round your ft. A pull-tab on the heel makes them simple to placed on. We seen that the footbed is well-cushioned and presents stable arch assist. Regardless of their sturdiness, the sandals are light-weight and by no means really feel cumbersome. We predict these can be nice for actions like paddle boarding, the place enhanced traction on the board is crucial.
Additionally obtainable in ladies’s sizes at Amazon and Zappos.
Potential Flaws
- Water and sand tended to gather contained in the toe bumper, requiring us to carry our ft to clear it out.
Most Helpful Perception
“The sneakers gripped nicely, dry and moist. I used to be capable of climb a steep hill with out them slipping. I would not hesitate sporting them on a five-mile hike by means of water and sand.” —Ben A., Verywell Match product tester
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Fashionable, and may be dressed up or down
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Waterproof, with nice traction on numerous terrains
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Light-weight, supportive, and breathable
Key Specs
Kind: Sandal | Sizes: Girls’s 6-13 | Supplies: Waterproof leather-based higher, foam midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Sure | Our Total Score: 5/5
Who They’re For
Finest for individuals who desire a light-weight, supportive, and extremely versatile waterproof ladies’s sandal that may simply be dressed up or down.
Why We Love Them
Frankie4’s Isla Slide utterly blew us away and simply earned an ideal rating, because of its distinctive consolation, versatility, and really trendy look. Excessive-quality waterproof leather-based and grippy rubber outsoles allowed these sandals to simply sort out seaside walks, slick concrete stairs throughout a downpour in Costa Rica, boat rides, and even a couple of impromptu hikes on rocky, uneven terrain in humid climate.
With stable arch assist, well-cushioned midsoles, and a breathable design, our ft at all times felt snug and funky, whatever the climate. We love how light-weight they’re, making them an excellent possibility for touring, pool days, or tossing in your seaside bag. And we admire how gentle and high-quality the straps are, by no means rubbing or irritating our delicate pores and skin. Not requiring a break-in interval, these sandals are extremely versatile and look simply pretty much as good on the seaside as they do at dinner.
Potential Flaws
- Some wearers word that these run a bit small. Nevertheless, we discovered our true dimension labored nicely for us. If in between sizes, we propose sizing up.
Most Helpful Perception
“I like how trendy and versatile these sandals are. I’ve by no means skilled a water-resistant sandal that was this engaging and carried out this nicely. They simply dealt with miles on uneven terrain, sizzling and humid climate, and regarded trendy sufficient to decorate up.” —Gabby A. Verywell Match product tester
Key Specs
Kind: Sandal | Sizes: Girls’s 6-15, Males’s 5-14 | Supplies: Artificial and neoprene higher, rubberized foam midsole, rubber outsole | Waterproof: Sure | Our Total Score: 4.9/5
Who They’re For
Finest in case you prioritize consolation and practicality for seaside walks, mild hikes, tidepooling, and extra.
Why We Love Them
Hoka trainers are amongst our favorites, however the model additionally presents different footwear we love, reminiscent of Hoka’s Hopara All-Terrain Sneakers. With a luxurious foam midsole that appears like strolling on clouds, these sneakers stored us snug and supported all through an extended hike that ended at a waterfall. The higher feels safe, because of a quick-lace system that gives an much more locked-in really feel. Plus, it has loads of cutouts for airflow and drainage if you end up strolling by means of water.
Throughout testing, we seen that additional cushioning within the heel makes transitions from grass to concrete seamless and shock-free. It feels fairly springy, serving to us roll into our subsequent stride effortlessly. We additionally seen that these sandals present stable arch assist, serving to to forestall foot fatigue. And we admire the rubber toe cap and sticky outsole (with massive lugs) for added safety in opposition to particles and stability on slick surfaces.
Potential Flaws
- These sandals are extremely comfortable and supportive, however they don’t seem to be essentially the most aesthetically pleasing or trendy possibility available on the market.
Most Helpful Perception
“The soles of the sandals had been very cushioned and had nice arch assist. The squishy sole of the sandal is what made these sandals so snug to stroll in.” —Rachel M., Verywell Match product tester
Verywell Match/Rachel Marek
What to Look For When Purchasing for Sneakers for Seashore Strolling
- Supplies: Your sneakers will get moist and sandy when strolling on the seaside, so select a pair comprised of waterproof, quick-drying, and easy-to-clean supplies, says Duran. Suppose synthetics, like neoprene and rubber, which offer higher sturdiness and safety, says Pinker. Each specialists additionally counsel prioritizing breathable sneakers that supply versatile assist on the sand. Investing in high-quality seaside sneakers will assist them final by means of a complete summer season season and past, says Pinker.
- Waterproofing: Select waterproof sneakers that will not weigh you down or let your ft sit too lengthy in moisture (which may trigger blisters, micro organism, foot fungus, and different points). Waterproof seaside strolling sneakers even have higher traction for navigating slippery rocks or uneven sand.
- Measurement: Your sneakers ought to match snugly however not be too tight. Pinker recommends that the tip of your longest toe be about one centimeter from the tip of the shoe. To make sure the very best match, measure your ft and confer with the model’s dimension chart earlier than making a purchase order. In the event you’re uncertain, sticking to your typical exercise shoe dimension is a secure guess, says Duran.
- Grippy Outsoles: Correct traction is essential in stopping slips and falls, says Pinker. Choose sneakers with versatile rubber outsoles that present grip on numerous terrains. You will navigate packed sand, rocks, and shells close to the water, which may create uneven surfaces, says Duran. And farther from the shoreline, the sand tends to be softer and deeper. Subsequently, sneakers that supply each flexibility and traction will assist you to transfer extra simply and securely.
Verywell Match / Stacey Wegner
How We Examined the Sneakers for Seashore Strolling
To seek out the very best sneakers for seaside strolling, we first consulted specialists for steerage on what options to search for when purchasing. Then, we examined dozens of sneakers from top-rated manufacturers throughout our every day routines (and holidays!). When testing, we consider every shoe primarily based on the next key standards.
- Match: After unboxing the sneakers, we consider their match. We decide in the event that they run true to dimension or in the event that they really feel too tight or too unfastened. We additionally test if our toes or heels lengthen past the shoe’s edge and whether or not our ft really feel safe or like they’re sliding inside. Lastly, we assessment any sizing steerage offered by the producer to see whether it is correct and useful.
- Cushioning: After we first attempt on the sneakers, we ask ourselves if the cushioning feels inflexible or gentle and plush. Is there satisfactory cushioning within the heel and arch? Is the higher padded? We additionally word if the cushioning stays constant all through the testing interval. We choose sneakers with ample cushioning to assist our ft throughout out of doors actions.
- Traction: Sneakers designed for out of doors use on uneven terrain will need to have grippy traction. We check the sneakers on numerous surfaces, together with concrete, grass, gravel, grime, and sand. We additionally consider the sneakers in moist and dry situations. We take into account whether or not we really feel secure and safe on every floor. The sneakers on our listing all have dependable traction.
- Consolation: We put on every shoe a number of occasions, being attentive to whether or not it feels mild and easy or heavy and hulking. We monitor for any blisters or sizzling spots and word if the fabric feels gentle in opposition to the pores and skin. We additionally test if the straps are snug or in the event that they pinch at any level. Breathability is one other key issue—do the sneakers hold our ft cool and sweat-free? We prioritize sneakers that supply lasting consolation throughout prolonged put on.
- Sturdiness: Out of doors sneakers are solely well worth the funding if they’re going to final. To evaluate the sturdiness of every shoe, we first get a way of the standard of the supplies, design, and development. All through the testing interval, we make sure that the standard stays intact. On the finish of the testing interval, we word any uncommon put on and tear, reminiscent of fraying or tearing. Did the sneakers maintain on to odor? Are they simple to wash?
- Worth: Lastly, we wait to look at the value of every shoe till the testing interval is full. Then, contemplating every of the above-tested key classes, we take into account whether or not we expect the value is cheap. We embrace solely these sneakers that we’d personally purchase at full value and suggest to family and friends.
Verywell Match
Our Specialists
We consulted two specialists to uncover the important thing options to search for in high-quality seaside strolling sneakers. In addition they suggested us on which varieties of footwear to keep away from and shared priceless security tricks to improve the seaside strolling expertise.
- Bruce Pinker, DPM, podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon in New York Metropolis
- Nicholas Duran, NASM, CPT, private coach and yoga trainer in Los Angeles
Regularly Requested Questions
Is it higher to stroll on the seaside with or with out sneakers?
Sneakers present added assist and traction, defending your ft from rocks, shells, and different objects, Pinker says. However in case you choose to stroll barefoot, he says that so long as you’re conscious of the dangers and take the required precautions, you are able to do so successfully and safely.
What sneakers must you put on when strolling on the seaside?
A cushty, supportive, and versatile shoe comprised of mild, sturdy supplies (like neoprene and mesh) that dry rapidly will assist you to get essentially the most out of shoreline strolls.
What sneakers do not sink in sand?
Water sneakers, waterproof sneakers, and supportive seaside or quick-dry sandals are all good decisions for seaside strolling, as they’re much less prone to sink into the sand like typical sneakers. Search for sneakers with stable arch assist and a large toe field, which can assist your toes naturally splay as you stroll on uneven, sandy terrain.
Why Belief Verywell Match
A licensed private coach, Verywell Match author, and runner, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, CNC, usually researches the most recent and finest in lively footwear. When strolling the seashores of California, she prefers a minimalist, zero-drop shoe with good traction. For this information, she prioritized strolling sneakers from reliable manufacturers which can be sturdy, secure, and versatile for numerous seaside settings and foot sorts. To incorporate the very best choices, she reviewed insights from our specialists and the Verywell Match testing workforce.
Further reporting contributed by Jen Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, and Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT
Jen Zeltwanger, ACSM-EP, is an ACSM-certified train physiologist and Verywell Match health author. Jen has been within the health business for over 25 years. She usually holidays on seashores the place she enjoys strolling and operating alongside the shore and is aware of what to search for in a great pair of seaside sneakers.
Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and household therapist, runner, and the affiliate editor for Verywell Match. Whether or not specializing in exercise gear, attire, or different merchandise, she’s devoted to offering suggestions primarily based on thorough analysis and testing. For this text, she hands-on examined our decide for Finest Girls’s Sandal.