3 Best Fishing Shoes

Hey there my fellow fishing enthusiasts and welcome to my post discussing my 3 best fishing shoes to slip into this year. Walking, wading, and standing on wet and slippery surfaces are part of the fishing experience. And of course not to mention that fishing is often undertaken in areas where there are sharp little hazards such as rocks, oyster beds, fishing hooks and so on.

Trying to find the best fishing shoes can be a daunting task as unlike regular boots or trainers, they are designed for breathability, ease of movement and obviously intended to get wet. And as usual, there are quite a few options out there so to speed up the purchasing process for you, I’ve compiled a list of my three favorite fishing shoes below:

I will review these in more detail below, but if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:

04/22/2025 07:31 pm GMT

Fishing shoes are water-resistant footwear designed for use in wet, muddy, or rocky terrain as well as on a kayak or in a boat for extra grip. They typically have rubber soles for traction on slippery surfaces and an open design to allow them to drain quickly when submerged. Some models may also include metal cleats in the sole for increased traction on slick surfaces especially if fishing from rocks.

There are a plethora of shoes available for various fishing applications. Heavy-duty deck boots provide insulation, grip, and protection for cold-weather fishing whilst minimalist slip-on sandals that provide grip and sole protection.

Below are some of the main factors you should take into account as you shop for a good pair of shoes for fishing:

1. Type
2. Material
3. Traction and grip
4. Foot support
5. Durability
6. Additions

Type

Fishing footwear, like anything else, comes in a variety of different types and styles. Each will work for most needs although many fishers prefer some over others for specific scenarios and weather conditions. Among the various types of fishing shoes there are:

1. Shoes for boating
2. Sandals for fishing
3. Water shoes that slip on
4. Boots for fishing and warmth
5. Extra grip shoes for rock fishing

If you are fishing in hot weather, you should wear a light fishing shoe, such as a trainer-like boat shoe, slip-on, or sandals. The most important considerations here are comfort, grip, and breathability.

Alternatively, a solid, thick and waterproof footwear solution is ideal for fishing in colder conditions. For this situation, you aim to use footwear that retains much heat while also not allowing water in – sort of like a wet suit for your feet.

Material

The material from which fishing shoes are made is significant. The majority of boat shoes are made of leather treated to repel water and keep the wearer dry. On the other hand, mesh is typically preferred for wading, warm-weather, boat, and kayak fishing because it drains well, dries quickly, is lightweight, and breathable.

Because neoprene is waterproof and insulated, it makes the best fishing boots for keeping your feet dry and warm when you have to stand immobile in cold water for an extended time. Rubber is the best outsole material for fishing shoes because it provides a good grip on the majority of the unstable surfaces that an angler walks on while fishing.

Traction and grip

And to continue on from above. In many cases you will be stepping on wet, slippery and other unstable surfaces whether you are fishing from the shore, wading in the water, or fishing from a boat, canoe, kayak, or float tube. The best fishing shoes should have excellent traction and a firm, non-slip grip.

Rubber soles are standard in the best fishing boots because they are grippy on most surfaces and can also be helpful if you are trekking or hiking to your fishing location. To increase grip, the outer sole should be textured and patterned.

Foot support

Here, you are looking for a fishing shoe with good ankle support which is good for balance and stability when wading in water or walking on muddy or slippery surfaces. Angler shoes should also have adequate padding for support and cushion.

Durability

As with anything to do with fishing, your footwear will be subject to harsh elements. This fact compels you to check for the product’s durability. Consider these factors regarding shoe durability:

1. Seam durability – All seams must be securely joined, whether with strong adhesives, tough stitching, or both.
2. Sole durability – Your fishing shoes must have rigid soles not only to withstand hazards such as rocks, sharp hooks, and broken glass but also to last a long time. It is also critical that the soles be secured with solid stitching, adhesive, or both.
3. Material toughness – The primary material of your footwear must be tough enough to withstand salt, sun, and water. Look for synthetics that are designed specifically for wet wear and harsh conditions.

Additions

Other potential additions include:

1. Adjustable tension straps – These are placed to help you achieve a firm stance as you stand on unstable surfaces.
2. Drainage – Getting wet while angling is unavoidable, and water will flow inside your shoes. The best fishing shoes should allow water to drain easily.
3. Reinforced toes – This feature is for safety reasons. As you wade across the waters, you might hit some rocks that could hurt your feet. With reinforced toes, you have that extra layer of protection.

I actually have two different pairs of fishing shoes that I use when I have a line in the water. The first is a slip on pair of water shoes (often called reef shoes) that I use to protect my feet when on the boat, kayak or rocky water’s edge. I have found these to be the most comfortable for anywhere where there are any hazards that could cut my feet.  Mine are similar to the first option listed below.

The second are a wet suit type material boot that I wear when fishing in the surf or on the rocks in winter. They are awesome provide good grip as well as keeping my feet warm – I do not like having cold feet! Mine are a close match to option 3 below without the large tread.

So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:

1. UBFEN Water Shoes

This first option is similar to the type I use and in my humble opinion has all the elements you should look for in any fishing shoe. They are versatile durable and breathable to release water quickly. They are also ultra lightweight and great for providing grip on rocks or a boat as well. See its specifications below:

• Brand: UBFEN
• Material: Upper: Stretchy material; Lower: Rubber soles
• Dimensions: 11.02 x 9.84 x 1.97 inches
• Weight: 14.11 ounces (.88 pound)
• Uses: Any fishing environment

Other inclusions:

• Adjustable elastic shoelaces
• Amphibious
• Quick-dry
• Multi use for other outdoor activities
• Suitable for men and women

Why have I chosen it?

The manufacturers used highly breathable and moisture-absorbent textile lining for quick-drying purposes. It has excellent elasticity that it can handle any type of fishing situation with a sole made from rubber which gives you good traction as you traverse slippery surfaces. As above, this is the type I mainly use and they never let me down.

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2. The Reel Shot Shimano Evair Fishing Shoes

This next option is one of the go-to shoes for avid boaters due to its comfort and stable foot support. Moreover, the product’s design cushioning and arch support absorb the boat’s movement on a rough day, while the open ports ensure comfort on long fishing days in the hot sun. These sandals are also ideal for shore anglers due to their rugged soles. See its specifications below:

• Brand: Shimano
• Material: EVA material (Ethylene vinyl acetate)
• Dimensions: Depends upon the size you are purchasing
• Weight: 1.31 pounds
• Uses: Boat fishing, shore fishing

Other inclusions:

• Non-marking grip on boat decks
• 100% waterproof
• Ergonomic arch design

Why have I chosen this?

This product shines in the area of comfort and foot support with molded foam-like midsole to cushion the feet. Its wide design provides stability as you stand and walk on your offshore boat and because its ports are open, your feet will be able to breathe during hot fishing days as well.

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3. Frogg Toggs Neoprene Surf & Sand Shoe

My final option is one of the best wading shoes in the market today. It has a comfortable athletic fit to provide security to your feet as you wade into the waters, around rocks or even on a boat when the weather is cold. They provide great comfort, support and protection and are suitable for both men and women as well. See its specifications below:

• Brand: Frogg Toggs
• Material: 60% Polyester, 40% PVC
• Dimensions: 13.94 x 12.71 x 5.2 inches
• Weight: 3.3 pounds
• Uses: Fishing, Surf Fishing, Clam Digging

Other inclusions:

• Reinforced toe
• Heavy-duty zipper
• Adjustable ankle straps
• Water-resistant

Why have I chosen this?

This product’s toes and heels are reinforced for added protection and if you spend a lot of time fishing near sharp or jagged rock or coral, the toughness of the soles will provide extra protection as well. This neoprene bootie provides excellent comfort and warmth whilst wading and solid protection against unfriendly sea creatures too.

There you have it, my three best fishing shoes to help you stay on your feet whilst fishing. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences with them.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time

Have fun

Paul