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There’s nothing better than spending your free time by the ocean! Nothing compares to the cool winds, warm sunshine, refreshing saltwater, calming sound of waves crashing, and hot sand between your toes while you’re drinking margaritas.
However, one thing that will definitely improve your whole beach experience is comfy beach shoes. In this post, I will list some of the most common footwear styles that makes a perfect choice for a day at the beach. If you’re looking for tips before purchasing beach shoes, read on.
Footwear To Wear On Beach
How you plan to spend your days at the beach will affect your choice of footwear. It may even require a second pair of shoes packed into your beach bag to switch into at some point, so go over your plans and pick your footwear accordingly.
Flip Flops
Flip flops are a beach staple suitable for both men and women so if you don’t mind open-toe style shoes with a Y-shaped strap that goes between your toes, opt for rubber flip flops. They’re perfect for warmer weather. However, they’re not suitable for running.
Sandals
You can also wear sandals at the beach. They’re usually sturdier than flip-flops and have thick straps that wrap around your foot’s instep. You will also obtain more balance with sandals. These are ideal for beach walking.
The best part? They’re made for both men and women in various styles and colors, so you can easily find something that meets your style and needs, and enjoy a sunny day at the beach. An ideal beach footwear solution to slip on and off as needed to avoid any sharp objects and hot sand.
Surfing Slippers
If you’re looking for comfortable shoes that you can wear at the beach, then look no further than surfing slippers.
They’re available in many vibrant colors and styles and pair perfectly with different beachwear. And just like most beachwear, most surfing slippers have tropical designs.
Boat Beach Shoes
Boat shoes were designed for both men and women. They’re perfect for a sunny day at the beach as well as visiting different boats.
With these shoes on, you don’t need to worry about the damp deck of boats. They provide god traction against slippery surfaces but what I appreciate the most is their versatility.
Cork Sole Shoes
If you’re searching for something super lightweight and easy, then cork sole shoes make a perfect option for you. They’re very versatile shoes with a cork sole on top and a rubber padding on the bottom.
I highly suggest these shoes for a day at the beach because they’re also comfortable and give a good grip because of the straps on top. What’s your honest opinion? Have you worn cork sole shoes before?
Clogs
Clogs have a dense sole and open heel, so they’re great for a day at the beach. But here’s the real kicker. They’re available in different styles. I prefer the easy slip-on style without any fasteners and straps. They also keep your feet ventilated and look stunning! A very practical beach footwear solution.
Scuba Shoes
When going scuba diving, you need scuba shoes rather than other water shoes. They come up to your ankle and provide full protection to your feet, so if you’re looking for something that’s durable and keeps the bacteria out, look no further than scuba shoes made of long-lasting and breathable material.
Roman Sandals
These sandals will provide a good grip while also being very comfortable and stylish. They feature straps criss crossing your feet to provide a firm grip and balance on the sand. However, what I love most about these sandals is the open-toe style that keeps the sand and water away from the feet.
Barefoot Sandals
Popular among ladies, the barefoot sandals make another perfect option for a relaxed day at the beach. They’re a good choice for attending any beach event such as a wedding or just enjoying the beach while looking stylish. However, keep in mind that the lacework on some of these sandals is very delicate.
Water Shoes
If you enjoy the water activities more than you enjoy tanning at the beach, then water shoes make a great option for you. Water shoes have a water grip outsole that provides a lot of support. Water shoes are also excellent in keeping the water out of the soles due to their secure fit. And drainage is super easy in most pairs of water shoes.
They’re usually made of waterproof and breathable material with a rubber sole so they’re both comfortable and safe Most water shoes come in slip-on style and bright colors. However, you can choose whatever style and color you want that will blend well with your surroundings. These are the most water friendly shoes along with scuba shoes and ideal for different water sports at the beach.
Most shoes you will want to keep away from the water but these are designed to be wet shoes that can transition from the sand to the sea with ease. These can be great for children who are always in and out of the water compared to other shoes.
Moccasins
You can wear moccasins for the beach as long as they’re beach moccasins. Avoid those moccasins made of super soft fabric. Instead, opt for leather styles that provide greater durability and stability. You don’t want wet feet.
They’re available in many styles for both men and women. Men usually prefer leather moccasins because they’re stylish and durable, so they make a great option for dinner dates at beach bars. They offer a stylish boat shoe look for a beach vacation.
Ballerina Flats
Most beach footwear comes in open-toe style, however, you can still wear your ballerina flats, especially if you plan to visit higher-end restaurants or stores near the beach.
Why carry around both flip flops and heavy shoes to change into afterward, when you can slip on a pair of ballerina flats? They’re lightweight, foldable, and budget-friendly.
Beach Wedge Sandals
Regular high heels aren’t suitable for wear on the beach for obvious reasons. That’s when beach wedge sandals kick in and save the day!
They don’t sink into the sand because of the heel’s wider profile, so you can walk easier without worrying about anything.
In my opinion, these sandals make a great option for stylish ladies who prefer passive sunbathing or just lounging at the pool. The high heel visually elongates the legs so you will look stunning! They aren’t very good for actually walking on the beach as they’re still higher than flat shoe styles.
The good thing about beach wedge sandals is the wide variety of styles. You can easily find something to match your beachwear. Furthermore, they’re usually budget-friendly and durable.
I personally like the espadrille beach wedge. They’re a very classic and popular option. It’s a perfect style for pairing with summer dresses for romantic beach dates or with capris or clam diggers for a casual but elegant look. Would you wear beach wedge sandals?
Light Sneakers
Most sneakers aren’t intended for wear on the beach. However, you can still wear your light sneakers at the beach.
They’re great to have in your luggage, especially if you’re headed for a long vacation because you just never know what the weather will be like.
Light sneakers make a perfect choice for traveling to your beach destination as well. Once you get there, you can take your sneakers off and walk barefoot.
Or put on something even lighter like rubber flip flops, sandals, water shoes, scuba shoes, or surfing slippers.
Barefoot!
Last but not least, I would suggest that you walk completely barefoot.
Put on your sneakers or whatever else you wear daily like crocs, drive yourself to the beach, take your shoes off, and have a good time! Feel the sand beneath when beach walking and go for a paddle in the sea.
Do you have other suggestions? Drop a comment below!
Why Do People Wear Shoes On The Beach?
Most people wear shoes on the beach because of the many shells, sharp slippery rocks and to keep their feet dry. I recommend wearing some type of shoes when running on the beach such as light sneakers. There aren’t beach shoes made for running or walking on the beach, so you can wear your regular sneakers.
Are Beach Shoes Necessary?
Of course, beach shoes aren’t necessary. However, I highly suggest wearing beach shoes when enjoying a day at the beach, trekking through mountain creeks, or paddling down a river. They will help keep your feet well-protected, more comfortable with good foot support, and drier, so you can fully enjoy your day.
Is It OK To Wear Sneakers To The Beach?
It’s completely fine to wear sneakers to the beach. I suggest wearing light sneakers instead of your usual heavy sneakers. Some people say that running shoes aren’t suitable for sand and seashells.
However, it’s much safer to wear sneakers when running on the beach than going barefoot and getting a seashell stuck in your feet or cutting yourself with a piece of broken glass or something else.
Can You Wear Flip Flops To The Beach?
Of course, you can wear flip-flops to the beach!
Everyone needs a pair of flip-flops when headed for the beach. Wearing other types of shoes will result in the getting sand stuck inside your shoes, which can be hard to remove.
Other popular beach footwear includes different types of sandals, ballerina flats, surfing slippers, scuba shoes, boat beach shoes, moccasins, cork sole shoes, sneakers, etc.
Best Footwear For The Beach – Wrap Up
Hopefully, this article on what footwear to wear on the beach can help you determine what footwear to choose for your next beach adventures. Do you have any favorite footwear yet?
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