Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by Afsar

Looking for the best fishing shoes? Today we are going to share some of the top best shoes which will help your fishing process. We will discuss the benefits of using those shoes and help you to choose one for you. There was a time when we used to choose regular casual shoes to go fishing, but the time has changed to drop those casual shoes and choose a fishing shoe. Our grandfather and dads were used to wear regular shoes when they went to fishing. Some even tried to get the locally manufactured shoes. However, the time has changed, and for the past decades, people are wearing shoes made for solely fishing purposes.

There are lots of manufacturers who are making incredible fishing shoes to maximize your fishing experience. A different fisherman has different criteria to choose their best fishing shoes. There are other conditions like environment and nature to influence the decision. In this post, I am going to tell you about fishing shoes, how to choose the best fishing shoes, and post some of the best fishing shoes in the market.

10 Best Fishing Shoes 2025

---

Columbia Men’s Drainmaker XTR Water Shoe

Best for: Versatility & Comfort

The Columbia Men’s Drainmaker XTR Water Shoe is a top-tier choice for anglers seeking a balance between comfort, durability, and water performance. Designed for both shore and kayak fishing, this hybrid water shoe combines the lightweight feel of a sneaker with the quick-drying and slip-resistant features essential for fishing.

Key Features and Benefits

1. Superior Water Drainage and Quick-Dry System

One of the standout features of the Drainmaker XTR is its advanced drainage system, which allows water to escape efficiently. The shoe is designed with strategic ports and mesh uppers that let water flow out quickly, preventing soggy, heavy shoes while fishing. This feature is particularly useful for wading, kayak fishing, or any scenario where you frequently step in and out of the water.

2. Omni-Grip™ Non-Slip Outsole for Maximum Traction

Columbia integrates its proprietary Omni-Grip™ rubber outsole into this shoe, ensuring excellent traction on both wet and dry surfaces. The razor-siped sole pattern grips onto slippery rocks, boat decks, and even muddy shorelines, reducing the risk of slipping. This makes the Drainmaker XTR an excellent choice for anglers who need dependable grip and stability.

3. Lightweight and Breathable Design

The breathable mesh upper allows for constant airflow, keeping feet cool even in hot weather. The shoe is also exceptionally lightweight, making it comfortable for all-day wear. The combination of synthetic overlays and a TechLite™ midsole provides ample support and cushioning without weighing you down.

4. Secure and Comfortable Fit

Featuring a lace-up closure system, the Drainmaker XTR offers a secure fit that prevents the shoe from slipping off in water currents. The padded collar and cushioned insole enhance comfort, making these shoes a great option for anglers who spend hours on their feet.

5. Versatile for Various Fishing Conditions

Whether you’re kayak fishing, wading in streams, or fishing from a dock, the Drainmaker XTR adapts to different environments. It functions well as a casual watersports shoe but offers enough grip and durability for fishing-specific activities.

Why Choose the Columbia Men’s Drainmaker XTR?

✔ Quick-drying and breathable – Ideal for wet conditions
✔ Excellent traction – Prevents slipping on boat decks and rocks
✔ Lightweight and comfortable – Great for extended fishing trips
✔ Durable construction – Long-lasting material withstands rugged use

For anglers looking for a versatile, high-performance water shoe, the Columbia Men’s Drainmaker XTR is a fantastic investment. It provides all-day comfort, water resistance, and stability, making it a reliable choice for any fishing adventure.

---

Aleader Men Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

This is our top choice when we are looking for fishing shoes. Fabric and rubber outsole is used to make this water shoe. A good fishing shoe will always provide a good quick drying ability, and it does. This fishing shoe comes with excellent breathability with quick drying ability. Walking on the deck of your boat while fishing can be dangerous if your shoe fails to tackle slippery surfaces. This is where this shoe puts a smile on anglers like us. It’s water grip and cushion outsole offers excellent traction on wet and slippery surfaces. It helps you have a better balance to make moves on the deck. It is also equipped with other features like the ComforDry sockliner, arch support insole, cushioning, and more. It is available in several colors and sizes to make it easy to choose.

Notable Features:

• Quick-drying ability
• High breathability, thanks to the air mesh upper
• Water grip and cushion outsole for better traction in wet and slippery places
• Arch support
• ComforDry sockliner
• Good cushioning
• The lightweight midsole offers great bounce-back

UBFEN Men Women Water Shoes

This is a great unisex fishing shoe coming from UBFEN. It is available in several colors and has amazing features. UBFEN used stretchy and smooth materials in the upper which makes it easy to get on and off. It is very lightweight, and makes you feel like wearing your socks on, but thick enough to protect your feet. It comes with a highly durable sole which has a great wearing resistance and duration. When walking or moving, you will feel great friction, thanks to the convex dots on the solo which enhances the ability of the anti-skid. The reason why this shoe topped into this list its water draining ability. The optimal sizes of the hole allow the water to get out of the shoe but won’t let in any rocs or sands inside. On top of that, the flexible twist and loop make it easy to wear and transport. You can buy a pair of these fishing shoes for a very low price.

Notable Features:

• Highly durable rubber sole for great wearing resistance
• Convex dots enhance the ability of anti-skid offering strong friction when waking
• The optimally sized hole allows the water to drain but doesn’t allow rocks and sands to get into the show
• Made by using stretchy materials
• Flexible twist and loop
• Low price
• Available in different stunning colors
• Can be used for many other activities like the beach, swimming, surfing, and more.

Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoe

Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoe was made with the needs of angler in mind since it is constructed with a waxy & waterproof leather and synthetic sole. For kayak fishing, we prefer to use water shoes which have better breathability. The upper of Merrell Men’s all-out blaze sieve water shoe is made of waterproof leather, stretch Lycra neoprene materials. On the other hand, the rubber is synthetic.

It has a bungee lacing system which makes it super easy for quick-and-easy adjustments on the go. The efficient Unifly EVA midsole with soft cushioning offers the support your feet deserve. It has a 3 mm lug depth and weighs 1lb 5oz. The Vibram TC5, along with the rubber outsole, guarantees reliable traction. The design of this fishing shoe ensures that it drains the water quickly. What’s more, it has a quick-drying feature. Try out a pair of Vibram’s first portable sole ever and discover more this winter.

Notable Features:

• Available in different colors and sizes
• Waxy waterproof leather upperSoft Lycra neoprene stretch collars
• Efficient Unifly EVA midsoles offer soft cushioning
• Vibram TC5+ rubber outsole for reliable traction
• Bungee lacing system for quick-and-easy adjustments on the go
• Antimicrobial treatment to keep the odors under control
• Abrasion-resistant toe guard
• High breathability

SoftScience Fin Shoe

This is one of the best fishing shoes available in the market. SoftSience Fin Shoe comes with a self-draining system with a mesh upper. Thus, it can drain the water very quickly. This fishing shoe can be used by boat fishing like kayaking and canoeing. If you are fishing on a slippery surface or wet deck on your boat, the fin will hold the grip for better stability. It has been designed in such a way that you get a good space with a better fit. Since it has generous space, you won’t get a snug fit, but have ventilation for breathability.

Notable Features:

• Self-draining system for quick drying
• Better grip on slippery surfaces
• Roomy design for better fit
• High breathability
• Better ventilation

Shimano Evair Marine Fishing Shoes

Founded by Shozaburo Shimano, Shimano is a huge Japanese multinational manufacturer specializing in fishing, rowing, and cycling components. Shimano’s Evair marine is a fishing shoe which has high durability, functionality, and comes at a very reasonable price. You can buy this pair of fishing shoes in eight different colors.

Evair marine features an ultra-lightweight EVA material. If you like to go fishing for a long time, you will appreciate wearing this comfortable fishing shoe. As the manufacturer claims, it will be hard to notice the shoe after a long day at fishing. It comes with an ergonomic arch and one piece molded EVA material (made using ethylene vinyl acetate) which will absorb the heel shock to reduce the foot fatigue. This pair of fishing shoes can be used in different types of activities like fishing, boating, kayaking, jet skiing, and surfing.

Notable Features:

• Ergonomic arch
• One-piece molded EVA midsole which absorbs the heel shock and reduces the foot fatigue
• Lightweight
• Comfortable
• Available in different colors

Columbia Men’s Bahama Vent PFG Slip-On Boat Shoes

These slip-on boat shoes are an excellent choice to be used on boats. Columbia Men’s Bahama Vent PFG is made of canvas and comes with a high-traction outsole. This fantastic high-traction outsole provides incredible gripping power on wet surfaces. The upper of this shoe is made of canvas and leather. The midsole offers a decent amount of cushioning with support for better comfort while wearing. What’s more this shoe is lightweight, has air-flow and drains water quickly.

Notable Features:

• Made of canvas
• Upper made of canvas and leather
• Available in different colors
• High-traction rubber outsole for better grip on wet surfaces
• Lightweight midsole
• Cushion used for comfort

Columbia Men Drainmaker III

The American company Columbia has an impressive line of affordable products, ranging from shirts to footwear. As the name suggests, this is primarily a trail running shoe. However, the features of this shoe allow it to be used as a fishing shoe. The upper is made of open mesh and synthetic fiber. This super-ventilated shoe has a quick-drying ability, which makes it an excellent shoe for fishing.

It features an Omni-grip outsole with razor siping, making it great to be used in the water. The Air-flow and water-drainable midsole make it even better. The Techlite midsole with the superior cushion offers high energy return. You can grab this cool looking fishing shoe in several colors. The price might be hefty, but the durability, features, and functionality make it worthy of your money.

Notable Features:

• Available in different colors
• Quick-drying
• Super-ventilated
• Omni-grip non-marking rubber outsole
• Techlite midsole, superior cushion, high energy return
• Quick-drying hybrid shoe
• Open-mesh upper
• Protective toe cap with rear pull loop
• Air-flow and water-drainable midsole

Sperry Top-Sider Men’s Voyager Boating Shoe

If you are looking for a waterproof fishing shoe, you should this Sperry Top-Sider Men’s Voyager Boating Shoe. This is a versatile packable Voyager which is designed to be used for adventure. Unlike most fishing shoes, this one comes with a shock absorption of up to 30%. Thus, jumping from the boat or kayak to the ground is much easier when you use this fishing shoe. It comes at a reasonable price in two different colors. In a nutshell, Sperry Top-Sider Men’s Voyager Boating Shoe is durable, lightweight, and waterproof.

Notable Features:

• Waterproof design
• Made to be used for adventure
• Shock absorption up to 30%
• Durable and lightweight

Men Vent Master Shoe

Columbia’s Ven Master Shoe is an excellent fishing shoe for men. It comes with a cool-wearing outsole with vents that works as water-drainage ports. The Omni-grip nonmarking wet outsole with the razor siping is designed to let you have a better grip on slippery and wet surfaces. If you are fishing from the deck, you will realize that the deck is slippery. It can help you combat such situations.

The techlite midsole with superior cushion makes it easy to reduce fatigue with the high-energy return. The upper of this shoe is made of mesh & synthetic while the sole is made of rubber. Besides fishing, you can take this for trail running too. It comes in two different colors at a very reasonable price.

Notable Features:

• Synthetic and mesh upper
• Rubber sole
• Techlit cushioning midsole
• Omni-grip midsole
• Techlite midsole with super cushion
• air-flow & Water drainage port
• Multi-purpose ability
• Lightweight design
• Offer a great grip on wet or slippery surfaces

Teva Men’s Churn Performance Water Shoe

Made of synthetic and mesh material, this is a casual and lightweight fishing shoe to be used on slippery deck or boat. Unlike most fishing shoes, this one comes at a slightly higher price for high-quality build materials. The mesh upper has water drainage channels with a bungee lacing system for a secure fit. The EVA midsole is compression-molded. The Encapsulates shock-absorbing ShockPad technology is there to absorb the shock more quickly and easily. What’s more, the spider rubber outsole is there for better traction and durability. If you don’t mind spending a little higher than cheap fishing shoes, this one is an excellent choice for you.

Notable Features:

• Mesh upper with water drainage channels for quick dry
• Bungee lacing system
• Better shock-absorbing system via Encapsulated ShockPad technology
• Nice grip on wet surfaces
• Spider rubber outsole offers better traction with high durability
• Very comfortable
• Abrasion-resistant synthetic leather

Columbia Men’s Drainmaker Li Athletic Shoes

One of the best fishing shoes to be used on water vehicles like boats, canoes, and kayaks. Columbia Men’s Drainmaker Li Athletic shoes have excellent gripping on the wet decks. It has a good design and good material to expedite the drying process. As the name suggests, Columbia Drainmaker shoes dry very quickly and easily. Thus, you get to have dry feet quickly. A lot of people are using this for multi-purpose. So, besides using them as fishing shoes, you can also use this for other activities too.

Notable Features:

• Drain quickly and easily
• Good grip on wet surfaces
• Can be used for multi-purpose activities
• Reasonable price

Rugged Shark Men’s Tidal Wave Boat Shoe

Yet another stylish looking boat shoe to be used for the fishing purpose. This shoe uses synthetic and full-grain leather upper. As a result, it looks like a casual and rugged shoe. The EVA insole of the shoe with compression-molded EVA midsole makes it even better. The Hexagrip(TM) slip-resistant non-marking rubber traction outsole is very helpful.

Notable Features:

• Rugged design
• Made of premium full grain leather upper
• Great durability and comfort
• Cushioning EVA insole for comfort and shock absorption
• Hexagrip slip-resistant non-marking rubber traction outsole

Under Armour Men’s UA Drainster Shoes

Who doesn’t like sporty looking shoes? Under Armour Men’s UA drainster shoes have a brilliant design and contrast color that it looks sp sporty in my eyes. Under Armour Men’s UA drains shoe uses a quick-dry and highly breathable textile upper. The contoured midsole and footbed are designed to have rapid drainage. It’s stylish, has high breathability, and quickly drains. All these points to be one of the best fishing shoes for kayakers.

Notable Features:

• High breathability
• High traction rubber outsole
• Abrasion protection
• Contoured midsole
• Stylish design

Sebago Men’s Docksides Boat Shoe

If the style is an issue for you, this one is the best dockside fishing shoe you can find in the market. This boat shoe features moc-toe stitching to stick up. Please note that they claim it to be hand-sewn. As a result, it has high quality and high durability for a long time. It is made of leather and rubber sole. The best part is you can use these dockside shoe as casual shoes. The molded foam insole and the non-slip, non-marking rubber outsole makes it even better. This classic leather boat shoe looks gorgeous when worn with proper clothing. My friend’s fiance is using this pair, and he looks amazing on it.

Notable Features:

• Classic boat leather deckside shoe
• Hand sewn
• Made of leather
• Looks stylish and expensive
• Available at a reasonable price
• Rubber sole
• Available in different colors

Aleader Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

Last but not the list, my most favorite best cheap fishing shoe is Aldear Men’s Quick Drying Aqua water shoes. Despite being cheap, this is one of the best fishing shoes available at such a cheap cost. You will get high breathability with the durable air mesh upper which allows the foot to breathe. The water grip and the cushion outsole gives you excellent traction on wet and slippery surfaces. It uses a ComforDry sock liner with arch support for ample cushioning to make you feel comfortable.

What’s more, the open mesh on the upper makes it highly breathable.

Notable Features:

• Highly breathable
• Durable mesh upper
• Solyte midsole is lightweight and has the bounce-back ability
• Water grip and cushion for better traction on wet and slippery surfaces
• ComforDry sock liner with arch support for ample cushioning
• Upper is highly breathable
• Quick-drying ability

---

How To Choose The Best Fishing Shoes?

When you’re out fishing, your shoes might not be the first thing on your mind—until you step on a slippery rock, get soaked feet, or struggle with uncomfortable shoes for hours. The right fishing shoes can make a huge difference in comfort, safety, and even how much you enjoy your time on the water. So, how do you pick the best pair? Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.

---

1. Think About Where You’ll Be Fishing

Not all fishing spots are the same, and neither are the shoes you’ll need.

• Boat fishing? Go for shoes with non-slip, non-marking soles so you don’t slip on wet decks or scuff them up.
• Fishing from the shore? A waterproof or quick-drying shoe with solid grip will help on muddy banks or rocky edges.
• Wading into the water? Wading boots or shoes with built-in drainage will keep your feet from feeling like water balloons.
• Fly fishing in a river? You’ll want studded or felt-bottomed boots to avoid slipping on slick rocks.

Your environment plays a big role in what shoes will work best, so start there!

---

2. Grip Matters—A Lot

Ever tried to balance on a slimy rock or wet dock? If so, you know how important traction is.

• Rubber outsoles with deep grooves provide a strong grip on wet surfaces.
• Non-slip soles keep you from sliding around like you’re on an ice rink.
• Felt-bottom or studded soles help you stay steady on moss-covered rocks in streams and rivers.

If you fish in different conditions, consider getting multiple pairs or a shoe with interchangeable soles.

---

3. Water-Friendly Features Are a Must

Fishing and water go hand in hand, so your shoes need to handle getting wet without turning into heavy, soggy messes. Look for:

• Waterproof materials (like neoprene) to keep feet dry.
• Quick-drying mesh uppers so they don’t stay soaked all day.
• Built-in drainage to let water escape instead of pooling inside your shoes.

Some shoes are made to keep water out, while others let water in but drain quickly—choose based on your fishing style.

---

4. Comfort is Key

Nothing ruins a good fishing trip faster than aching feet. Since you’ll likely be on your feet for hours, make sure your shoes are:

• Cushioned and supportive to keep your feet happy.
• Adjustable (laces, straps, or toggles) for a snug fit.
• Breathable so your feet don’t overheat on hot days.
• Lightweight because heavy shoes = tired legs.

If you have foot issues, look for shoes with good arch support or space for insoles.

---

5. Durability—Because Fishing Shoes Take a Beating

Your fishing shoes will face water, mud, sun, and constant wear. The best materials for lasting durability include:

• Neoprene – Great for waterproofing and insulation.
• Rubber – Ideal for traction and protecting your feet.
• Synthetic mesh – Lightweight, breathable, and dries fast.
• Leather (treated) – Durable but requires maintenance to stay waterproof.

Cheap shoes might seem like a good deal, but if they fall apart after a few trips, they’re not worth it.

---

6. Lightweight vs. Heavy-Duty—What’s Best for You?

Do you move around a lot while fishing? If so, go for lightweight shoes that won’t weigh you down. But if you’re standing in the water all day, sturdier wading boots with extra ankle support might be better.

For travel, consider collapsible or packable shoes that won’t take up too much space in your bag.

---

7. Protection From the Elements

Fishing shoes should do more than just keep your feet dry—they should protect them too.

• Sun protection: Some shoes have UV-resistant materials to prevent sunburn (yes, your feet can get sunburned).
• Cold weather: Neoprene-lined shoes help keep your feet warm.
• Mud and debris: High collars or snug closures prevent sand, mud, and tiny rocks from getting inside.

The right pair of fishing shoes should help you focus on catching fish, not dealing with sore or frozen feet.

---

8. Easy to Clean = Less Hassle

Fishing gets messy—there’s mud, fish slime, algae, and who knows what else. Pick shoes that:

• Rinse off easily with just water.
• Don’t absorb odors (unless you want your car to smell like a fish market).
• Have removable insoles so they can dry properly and not get moldy.

No one likes dealing with smelly, dirty shoes after a long day of fishing.

---

9. Style & Design—Because Looks Matter (a Little)

Okay, fishing shoes are all about function, but style doesn’t hurt. Here are some options:

• Slip-on shoes: Easy to put on and take off for casual fishing trips.
• Lace-up boots: Better ankle support and security.
• Fishing sandals: Great for warm weather, quick drying, and lightweight.
• Wading boots: Best for serious anglers standing in water for long periods.

If you like looking good while fishing, brands like Columbia and HUK make stylish yet functional fishing shoes.

---

10. Budget—What’s Worth the Money?

Fishing shoes come in a range of prices. Here’s what you should expect:

• Budget ($20-$50): Basic water shoes or sandals. Fine for occasional use.
• Mid-range ($50-$100): Solid traction, comfort, and durability for regular anglers.
• High-end ($100+): Premium materials, extra features, and long-lasting performance.

If you fish often, it’s worth investing in a quality pair—cheap shoes will just fall apart faster.

---

Popular Fishing Shoe Brands to Check Out

If you’re not sure where to start, here are some reliable brands:

• Columbia – Great waterproof and quick-dry options.
• Simms – High-quality wading boots.
• Keen – Durable sandals for warm-weather fishing.
• Xtratuf – Perfect for boat fishing with amazing grip.
• HUK – Performance-driven fishing shoes with a stylish touch.