The first time I went paddle boarding, I wasn’t sure if I should wear shoes or go barefoot. I stood there, board in one hand, shoes in the other, unsure what to do. Do you wear shoes when paddle boarding, or is it better to feel the board? There’s no right or wrong answer—it depends on what feels best for you. In this guide, I’ll share the pros and cons so you can decide what works for your next adventure. Let’s dive in!
Why Consider Wearing Shoes When Paddle Boarding?
Paddle boarding feels amazing, but have you ever stepped on something sharp? Ouch! Hidden rocks, shells, or slippery spots can ruin the fun. Some people love going barefoot, but others prefer the extra safety and grip of shoes. Let’s look at why wearing shoes might be a good idea.
Protection from Sharp Objects
The water may seem calm, but what’s under it can surprise you. Stepping on a rock, shell, or broken glass can hurt. Shoes protect your feet from cuts and bruises. This is super helpful in shallow water, rocky areas, or when launching your board. If you’re paddling somewhere new, shoes keep your feet safe.
Improved Grip and Stability
Ever slipped and fallen off your board? Wet boards can be slippery. Shoes with a good grip help you stay steady. This makes balancing easier, especially in rough waters. With better traction, you can paddle with confidence.
Temperature Regulation
A paddleboard can get super hot in the sun or freezing in cold water. Walking on a hot board feels like stepping on burning sand! Shoes protect your feet from extreme temperatures. Neoprene booties keep them warm while water shoes guard against heat.
Reasons to Go Barefoot
Paddle boarding barefoot feels amazing. The cool water touches your feet, and you move with ease. Many paddlers love it! Let’s look at why skipping shoes might be the best choice.
Feel More Connected to the Board
Think about walking on soft sand. You feel every step, right? That’s what barefoot paddle boarding is like! Your feet grip better, helping you stay steady. Turning and shifting become easier, too. It’s a more natural ride.
More Flexibility and Freedom
Shoes can feel tight. Without them, your feet move freely. You shift weight smoothly, making paddling easier. Plus, you don’t have to deal with wet, heavy shoes. Barefoot paddling feels light and natural.
Saves Money and Hassle
Shoes can be expensive. Going barefoot costs nothing! You don’t have to pack extra gear or dry wet shoes later. Just grab your board and go. Simple and stress-free!
Choosing the Best Shoes for Paddle Boarding
Wearing the right shoes can make paddle boarding easier and safer. But which ones should you choose? Let’s go over your options.
Water Shoes – Light and Protective
Water shoes are a great choice. They are lightweight, dry fast, and give good grip. They protect your feet from sharp shells and rocks. Plus, they help you stay steady on a wet board. Many have breathable mesh, so your feet stay cool.
Quick answer: Water shoes protect your feet, dry fast, and stop slipping.
Neoprene Booties – Keep Feet Warm
If you paddle in cold water, neoprene booties are perfect. They trap heat and keep your feet warm. They fit snugly, like a wetsuit for your feet. They also give good grip, so you stay balanced.
Quick answer: Neoprene booties keep feet warm and help with balance.
Sandals and Other Choices – Good for Easy Rides
Some paddlers wear sandals or aqua socks. Sandals keep your feet cool but may not grip well. Aqua socks are soft and protect against small cuts but don’t offer much support. These work best for calm waters.
Situational Considerations
Factors That Affect Your Choice
Wondering whether to wear shoes or go barefoot while paddle boarding? It depends on the conditions. Let’s break it down.
Water Conditions – Calm or Rough?
Calm water is easy to handle. You can go barefoot and feel the board beneath you. But rough waters? That’s a different story! Waves make balancing harder, and shoes give you grip so you don’t slip.
Quick answer: Calm water? Barefoot is great. Rough water? Shoes help you stay steady.
Weather and Temperature – Hot or Cold?
The weather changes everything! A hot board burns your feet. A cold board makes them numb. Shoes protect you from both. Neoprene booties keep your feet warm. Water shoes shield you from the heat.
Quick answer: Shoes stop burns in heat and keep feet warm in cold water.
Personal Comfort – What Feels Right?
Some people love the free feeling of going barefoot. Others like the safety of shoes. Try both and see what works for you!
FAQs
Do Professional Paddle Boarders Wear Shoes?
It depends! Some professionals wear shoes, especially in rough waters or cold conditions. But many prefer going barefoot for a more natural feel. It comes down to personal choice and comfort.
Are There Specific Brands Recommended for Paddle Boarding Shoes?
Yes, there are! Popular brands like Nike, Teva, and Keen offer great shoes with good grip and comfort. If you want something made specifically for water sports, try Aqua Sphere or Oofos.
Quick answer: Nike, Teva, and Keen are great for paddle boarding shoes.
How Do I Maintain and Clean My Paddle Boarding Shoes?
Cleaning your shoes is simple! After each use, rinse them with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris. Let them dry in the shade. For deeper cleaning, use a mild detergent and a soft brush. Avoid strong chemicals that can damage them.
Conclusion
Whether you wear shoes or go barefoot, it’s all about what feels best for you. Both options have their benefits, depending on the conditions. I hope this guide helps you make the best choice for your next adventure!
David Ruperto is a Footwear Engineer with expertise in 3D printing, design, and pattern making. With a background in Fine Arts from CUNY and training from SLEM and Cordwainer’s Savannah, he blends creativity with innovation. Based in New York, he shares his knowledge on BestForShoes.com, helping others explore the world of footwear.