Top Fishing Shoes Reviewed in 2024

 

Best Fishing Shoes – Comparison & Buying Guide

 

If you want to find the best fishing gear but you don’t have the time to go through the buying tips and reviews prepared by our research team, this short paragraph should tell you everything you possibly need to know about the best fishing shoes. After analyzing a lot of feedback coming from both amateur and professional fishermen, we have concluded that the Sperry Sea Kite Sport Moc are the best boat shoes for fishing as they won’t ruin your budget for life and seem to have been constructed to withstand the test of time. Featuring a water-resistant leather and mesh upper, these shoes offer plenty of ventilation without risking to retain any moisture that one might become the victim of while spending a day on one’s boat. What’s more, the model is equipped with a sturdy rubber outsole that offers more than decent traction even if the floor is wet and might become too slippery to stand on. That won’t happen if you have these shoes on your feet as the outsole has been particularly designed to prevent this. If the Sperry Sea Kite Sport Moc aren’t available, you should consider the Adidas Climacool Boat as they’re just as reliable in terms of performance and quality.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

12 Best Fishing Shoes (Reviews) in 2024

 

1. Sperry Top-Sider Men’s Sea Kite Sport Moc

 

This Sperry Top-Sider boat shoe is one of the most critically acclaimed models we have come across during our entire research, which should definitely add up to something considering that we have looked at hundreds of alternatives. These shoes are made with leather and feature a synthetic sole, but the neat thing about them is that both the mesh upper and the leather parts are water-resistant. This makes it possible for the user’s feet to have proper ventilation all throughout the fishing expedition.

If cleaning and maintenance are two things that are always on your mind, perhaps you might feel more reassured when finding out that this model is equipped with a removable molded EVA footbed. The lacing system has eyelets that are resistant to corrosion, which come in handy due to the fact that wet accidents are bound to happen on a boat, be they sooner or later. Besides, this feature is a net advantage as you’ll be able to wash the shoes conveniently.

The outsole of this model has been constructed using rubber that has been uniquely designed with sipes so that it doesn’t retain water or make it difficult for the owner to walk on account of his or her shoes being too slippery.

Pros

If you can’t afford to spend much money on a boat type pair of shoes, then you might consider this model because they are well-made and affordable.

Coming with an easily removable molded EVA footbed these shoes have proven to be quite easy to clean and maintain.

Boasting an Adaptive Wave-Siping technology equipped on the rubber outsole this model guarantees steadiness and stability for its user.

Made out of leather and a synthetic sole they seem to be water-resistant, particularly in the mesh upper and leather parts.

Also, thanks to the mesh upper they get good air circulation, so the user’s feet have proper ventilation.

Cons

With the presence of the detachable footbed, some users felt that it takes some time to get used to this model.

Other customers advised to order half a size larger than your regular size for a snug fit.

 

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2. Adidas Outdoor Men’s Climacool Boat Lace-M

 

Adidas is one of the most well-known brands in the industry of manufacturing footwear, some of which is destined for fishermen.

This model is a mesh shoe with a rubber sole that comes with a series of features that improve the degree of comfort felt by the user. While the outsole has been created in such a way so that it increases the friction and the traction offered by the shoe, it is important to note that this product is not as resistant to water as some other units in the line might be. In fact, the Climacool Boat seems to have been designed so that it’s able to dry up quickly rather than provide a much-needed water-resistance. Unless you use a very high boat when fishing, you probably need the services provided by a much sturdier type of shoes.

If you are looking for a reasonably priced alternative that allows you to avoid breaking the bank, these Adidas fishing shoes may be a good option. Nonetheless, you have to keep in mind the fact that they are considerably more breathable compared to other options, and you may get your feet wet at some point or the other. In spite of their downsides, these Adidas shoes have managed to gather more than five hundred favorable Amazon reviews.

Pros

Coming from one of the most famous companies that make footwear, this product has been specially designed for your improved comfort.

While not being made for water resistance this product seems to have a special ability to dry quickly and have proven to be quite durable and pass the test of time.

The outsoles provide good friction and traction to prevent slipping and falling when on slippery surfaces.

At an affordable price, these Adidas shoes might come in handy either when fishing on a boat or as regular shoes for everyday activities being stylish enough to impress.

Thanks to its lightweight they won’t wear you down regardless of the circumstances you might encounter.

Cons

If you are used to wearing socks when fishing, then you might want to consider ordering a have a size larger version of this model.

When on wet rocks, some users have been proven to encounter some difficulties.

 

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3. Aleader Men’s Mesh Slip On Water Shoes

 

Unlike some of the products we’ve showcased prior to this one, these Aleader fishing water shoes aren’t designed to be durable, heavy, and bulky, and thus may not provide all the benefits offered by water imperviousness. Actually, this model is more intended for fishermen who’d like to concentrate on getting as much comfort from the shoe as possible. Since the upper has been constructed out of mesh, it is both breathable and reasonably durable.

The same type of construction, as well as the solyte midsole, work together in creating a lightweight product that offers a neat fit and somehow manages to withstand the test of time just as well as other high-end options.

Unfortunately, there are several limitations to the Aleader model, as it was to be expected from any freshwater and saltwater fishing shoes that are not specifically resistant to water. If you get wet, there’s a high chance that the water will penetrate the inner layers of the shoe and it might take a while for it to dry up, although it is equipped with a ComforDry sockliner. If you’re strictly interested in a pair of fishing shoes for the boat, these ones might do you good, though, especially as the chance of getting drenched in water in a high boat is very slim.

Pros

If you consider yourself a fisherman that puts a big accent on as much comfort as possible, then this model is ideal for you.

The upper part is made out of mesh ensuring great breathability and reasonable sturdiness.

It is made to be lightweight thanks to mesh and the solyte midsole offering a nice fit and managing to have a long enough lifespan just as well as other high-end products.

These shoes come with a Water Grip outsole, and that might raise your interest towards this product because it provides good traction regardless of surface.

The design of the Aleader Men’s Slip On proves that you can wear this while fishing as well as in any day-to-day activity.

Cons

The durability of these shoes at the beach has been put to question by some customers because the rocks and sand seem to affect them.

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4. Columbia Men’s Bahama Vent PFG Lace Up

 

Another option that might be worth considering if you have not yet made up your mind on a different model is this Columbia Men’s model. These slip-on boat shoes are anything but water resistant, but they have not been designed to satisfy this requirement. Instead, they offer more than enough foot ventilation. What’s more, they prove their worth because of their razor siped rubber outsole as it makes it possible for the person wearing the shoes to remain just as stable on wet surfaces as one would when standing on the sidewalk.

One thing that is rather impressive about the Columbia Men’s BM4444 is that the midsole is water drainable in spite of the fact that it is both lightweight and grants all the cushioning one may need in order to feel comfortable while trying to catch a big fish. Because of its unique design, it doesn’t come as a surprise that there have been many owners who have reported that they prefer using this kind of shoe without any socks.

In spite of the fact that there have been various comments regarding the water protection of these shoes, there have been customers who have said that they were able to wear them while they were in the kayak.

Pros

This Columbia’s Men model is a slip-on boat shoe that offers more than enough foot ventilation. You can wear this either when you fish or as regular, everyday shoes.

In terms of stability, these shoes seem to work just fine thanks to their razor-siped rubber outsole.

The midsole has a nice drainage characteristic while being both lightweight and comfortable thanks to the inner cushions.

Its unique design has led some users to believe that you can wear this type of product without having socks on.

Some users said that they were able to wear them while kayaking in spite of them not being design for water resistance.

Cons

According to some reviewers, these shoes tend to come by too short or narrow so you might take into consideration looking for a size larger.

The limited selection options available for this type of product has led to several complaints.

 

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5. Under Armour Men’s Drainster Ankle Boot

 

Under Armour is another world-known brand in the industry of manufacturing high-quality fishing shoes, which is why it comes as no surprise that these ones are perfectly designed and are likely to satisfy the needs of even the pickiest fishermen.

Under Armour fishing shoes can sometimes be bought for a lower price compared to the ones produced by other companies, which is why they are even more recommended for people who’d like to wear a pair that’s comfortable, convenient, and durable all at the same time.

Since this is a very practical shoe we’re discussing, there was no point in using any materials such as leather for the upper. That’s why the Under Armour engineers have imagined the upper of this product so breathable that they decided to make it out of quick-dry textile fabric. Because shoes that are prone to get wet rather often are likely to be less durable than the ones you’d wear down the street when going to the supermarket, these ones have been equipped with welded synthetic overlays in order to avoid abrasion.

In addition, the Drainster is, just like its name suggests, perfectly capable of becoming dry once again as both the midsole and the footbed have been created in such a way so that they allow a rapid drainage.

Pros

At an affordable price, these shoes come from a company that is renowned for making high-quality products.

For people who would like a pair of shoes that is durable, convenient and comfortable and one that is at a lower price than what other companies might offer these shoes are ideal.

The upper part is made out of quick-dry textile fabric designed for breathability and comfort allowing water to flow out through a series of holes on the sides.

In order to have an increased durability, this product is equipped with synthetic overlays in order to avoid wear and tear.

As the name “Drainster” suggests, the midsole and footbed of this product have been designed precisely for allowing rapid drainage.

Cons

Some customers reported that because of the diameter of the drainage holes foreign object may enter inside the shoe.

Another reviewer felt that this product may not fare well against slippery surfaces.

 

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Best shoes for rock fishing

6. Hodgman Neoprene Wade Shoe

 

Wading shoes must provide, most and foremost, great stability for the wearer, so you do not end up slipping, falling and hurting yourself, especially in areas where plenty of rocks lie around.

The wading shoes from Hodgman presented here are made of high quality neoprene, so they do not allow water to get inside. The 3.5 mm of neoprene provide enough thickness for improved durability, without becoming too cumbersome. Your feet still remain mobile and flexible, and you will not have to worry about accidents.

The design of these fishing shoes contributes to their popularity. The adjustable cuffs go around the ankles and you can use the hook and strap system to customize the shoes as you see fit. Making them tighter will help you avoid debris from gathering inside. The shoes come with a zippered front, so you can easily take them off or put them on.

As mentioned earlier, stability is paramount for fishing shoes and this model does great in this respect. The soles are made of non-marking rubber that are great for taking after rocky river beds or shores, so you do not have to deal with unpleasant mishaps. The soles are also designed to protect the toes and the sides of your feet.

Pros

When wading, you must have great stability to prevent your slipping or falling and that is what this product offers.

Made out of high-quality neoprene they don’t allow water to leak inside. The 3.5 mm of neoprene also provides enough durability yet it doesn’t add too much weight for the shoes to become burdensome.

The shoes come with a zipper in front so you can easily put them on or remove them. Their design appealed to many of the users thanks to their adjustable cuffs that go around the ankles and their possible customization through the hook and strap system.

For not letting unwanted debris in your shoes you can make them tighter, and the rubber soles are great for taking after rocks preventing any unwanted accidents.

Cons

One reviewer said that these fishing shoes tend to come in a smaller size.

Some may feel that a pair of boots can prove more durable than this product.

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7. Caddis Men’s Taupe Felt Sole Wading Shoe

 

Manufactured by a company with a long standing tradition in making wading shoes, this model from Caddis enjoy many positive reviews from users and for all the right reasons. First of all, the felt sole makes sure that you will take advantage of the great stability provided by the shoe. Whether you walk on mossy rocks, logs or rocky river bottoms, you will not have to worry about a thing.

Keep in mind that these are felt shoes and you need to check the fishing regulations in the state where you intend to go fishing, since in some parts of the country, they have been banned in order to protect nature against invasive species.

In case your favorite fishing spots have not yet been affected by this decision, these felt sole shoes are a great recommendation. They are very comfortable, and they come equipped with speed laces. The cushioned insole and the reinforced toes and heels contribute to the superior comfort of this model, as well.

Made of high quality polyester, these fishing shoes are made to last. Be aware that the shoes are oversized by half a size, so you can add any necessary insulation.

Pros

This type of shoe which is made by a company renown for its fishing equipment making capabilities offers great stability thanks to their felt sole so, whether you walk on mossy rocks, logs or rocky river bottoms, you will keep your balance.

This pair of shoes equipped with speed laces is made to feel comfortable with a cushioned insole, reinforced toe and heels making them durable as well, capable of withstanding a hose wash as pointed out by a reviewer.

They are made out of high-quality polyester which means they are built to last, and you can add necessary insulation because they are made with half a size larger.

Cons

Wading shoes with felt soles are no longer allowed in certain areas meaning that you have to check where you’d like to wear them before considering purchasing them.

Some users expressed concerns about the laces being too thin and thus risking to break.

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8. Caddis Northern Guide Grip Sole Neoprene Wading Shoes

 

Extra support and comfort are provided by these wading shoes from Caddis Wading Systems. The Northern Guide model is designed for durability and is sold with a one year warranty offered by the manufacturer. The dark brown upper area is reinforced with rubber in order to make these fishing shoes more powerful.

The shoes come equipped with a side zipper that makes it easy for you to put the shoes on, or take them off. The zipper is made of heavy duty material, so it can withstand the same wear and tear as the rest of the shoe. The toe and heel areas are also reinforced for prolonged durability.

By taking a closer look at these wading shoes, you will notice that they have really thick soles that offer superior grip when walking on sand or mud. Even if you will have to do a lot of walking, you will notice that the shoes maintain the same level of comfort, due to their cushioned insoles.

These shoes are great for walking through mud, as the side ankle straps make sure that the footwear will remain on your feet all the time.

Pros

These wading shoes offer extra support, comfort and are designed for durability and come with a one-year warranty.

Their sturdiness is increased by the rubber reinforcement applied to the upper area of the shoes as well as the toes and heel areas.

Instead of laces, this product comes with a heavy-duty zipper capable of withstanding the same wear and tear as the rest of the shoe.

The comfort is guaranteed by the cushioned insoles, and your steadiness is also guaranteed thanks to their thick soles that offer superior grip when on slippery surfaces.

Slide ankle straps will make sure to keep the shoes on your feet.

Cons

You might consider using a shoe horn when taking off the shoes at the end of a long day because, as a complaint from a customer reads, they can prove quite difficult to take off.

Another reviewer seemed to think that these shoes come with a size smaller than expected so look carefully.

 

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9. Frogg Toggs Kikker Sticky Rubber Wading Shoes

 

If you are looking for a reliable pair of shoes for fly fishing, you will not go wrong if you pick the Frogg Toggs Kikker Guide Boot from the pile. These decently priced fishing shoes provide great stability, so you do not end up slipping on rocky river bottoms. The special rubber outsole takes after the shape of rocks with great ease, offering you the best grip possible.

The upper part of the shoe is made of durable mesh with reinforced overskin. The great part about these fishing shoes is that they are very lightweight, despite providing you with such great support. The EVA midsole is especially designed to add comfort and support, and the toe and heel are reinforced for durability. The tungsten steel cleats on the soles will make sure that you will never slip and fall during your fishing adventures.

The padded tongue and the comfortable mesh collar will make you feel like you are not even wearing fishing boots. Scoring positive reviews from users who say that these shoes offer great traction on rocks, these shoes dry very fast and are very durable. In case you want a pair of fishing shoes that will provide comfort, stability and great quality in one package, these are the shoes to buy.

Pros

These shoes are perfectly designed for flyfishing because it offers a good grip thanks to their rubber outsole plus the tungsten steel cleats that prevent you from slipping and provide great stability.

This pair of lightweight fishing shoes has the upper part made out of sturdy mesh with reinforced over skin making it durable as well.

The midsole is EVA made and is designed to add support and comfort. Its toe and heel areas are reinforced for increased durability

The comfort is increased with a padded tongue and a cozy mesh collar.

This product gathered positive reviews which said that it provides great traction on rocks, are durable and dry very fast.

Cons

One concern that was expressed by a customer was about back-up cleats and how they are not available, the only option being that you’ll have to buy a new pair.

Also, look carefully at the size you’re ordering because one buyer got a pair that was larger than he expected.

 

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10. Bruno Marc Men’s Maui-3 Black Outdoor

 

If you are determined to purchase a pair of sandals made from leather, the Bruno Marc Maui Outdoor might be just what you might need. This model stands out as it features a rubber outsole that will make it effortless for you to walk while fishing. Furthermore, the footbed of the product was made from soft latex. Because of this, these sandals are considered very comfortable and easy to wear, no matter the type of terrain.

As a plus, the unit has a classical style that is easy on the eyes. Hence, you’ll be able to utilize the model for various other outdoor activities. On top of that, this product is very much lightweight and, thus, it won’t cause you any type of discomfort, even when worn for an extended period of time.

What is more, according to the seller, these sandals are very flexible, and they are highly comfortable. At the time that we have carried out our research, this product had received overall positive reviews from its previous buyers. However, you should know that there have been users that noted that the footbed of the model tends to fall apart quite easily.

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11. Skechers USA Men’s Selmo Brown

 

Another product that you should not ignore is the Skechers Relaxed Fit. This model is well liked by many fishermen because of its protective toe cap as well as because of its ghillie-style lacing. As a plus, this unit features a smooth and durable suede upper that is comfortable and very much stylish.

Moreover, the design of the model includes a rubber toe cap in the front of the shoe, as well as side straps that have neoprene edges. Similarly to most fishing shoes, this unit has sturdy stitches for extra durability.

The heel strap of the shoes is easily adjustable, and it is said to feature a hook and loop closure that is effortless to operate. On top of that, the product has a memory foam design that is very comfortable. Additionally, the footbed of the shoes is cushioned and contoured so that your feet won’t feel tired in these sandals.

As expected, the midsole of the model is capable of absorbing shocks, while the outsole of the unit includes a flexible rubber trail style that many find practical. All in all, this product has received great reviews from current users. Most of them were quick to point out that this pair of sandals is well-made.

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12. Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Men’s Hewitt Fisherman Sandal

 

If you like fishing boots, you’ve probably heard about Dr. Scholl’s Shoes before. The Hewitt model sold by this manufacturer was specially created to be used by fishermen. As a result, the unit is packed with many features that you will undoubtedly enjoy.

For instance, this pair of shoes features a synthetic sole and a leather upper that can 100% cater to the needs of fishing lovers. Besides, the footbed of the model was carefully shaped in such a way so that it fits the user’s feet.

As a plus, the model includes an adjustable strap that is located at the ankle of the shoe. By using it, one can adjust the product to one’s needs. Also, the side straps included in the design of the unit can add to the comfortable fit that these sandals can deliver.

The model is highly praised by its current users because it is very much comfortable. Additionally, it has been noted that, when compared to other similar models, these shoes are quite silent. Also, some users have indicated that the model is likely to stand the test of time. So, give it a go!

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Fishing shoes are an important part of an angler’s gear, because they help keep cold and water away, and because they deal well with slippery surfaces. There are many reasons why you should get a pair of specialized fishing shoes when you plan on spending an entire day on water, and getting a good quality model is very important.

 

 

First of all, fishing shoes are different from your average athletic shoes that may be a good choice for the times when you go trekking in the mountains. The latter, however, cannot be as good as fishing shoes at protecting your feet against the water that may go inside when you are fishing. Comfort is, as you may easily guess, very important for really enjoying a day or an entire trip spent fishing. Besides the fact that you will have a ruined experience, you may also suffer a fracture or catch a cold, just to mention a few of the health issues that can appear if you are not well equipped for spending time on a water body.

A good quality pair of fishing shoes is designed to offer you the best protection, help you enjoy your fishing adventures and it is also durable. Investing in fishing shoes is highly recommended, regardless of whether you are a seasoned angler or one with less experience who wants to get more out of their fishing trip. There are plenty of models and brands on the market, so getting the best fishing shoes may seem a bit difficult. With the help of the following buying guide, you will be able to identify the most important characteristics fishing shoes need to have in order to qualify as a good buy. Specialized fishing gear is highly appreciated by anglers, and you should not overlook getting the best either.

 

 

Choosing the right fishing shoes

 

One of the first aspects to consider when you plan on purchasing a pair of fishing shoes is the type of fishing you are most likely to engage in. You may be surprised to find out that there are fishing shoes for shallow waters, some models that are intended for fly fishing and so on. For instance, if you are after the best shoes for kayak fishing, you should go for a model that is lightweight, and equipped with soles that let the water drain quickly. These shoes should also stick to your feet like glue, so they do not come off when you wade through sticky mud.

Water shoes are very common and they are a good choice if you plan on fishing on shallow waters. These are made from a combination of leather, rubber and mesh, so they can provide you with enough traction on slippery surface, and also avoid absorbing water. Water sandals, on the other hand, are specially designed for those who fish in areas where they need to get in and out of the water frequently.

Waders are another common type of fishing shoes. Actually, they qualify as more than that, because they are worn over the legs, the belly and the chest, in the same way as overalls. Basically, these provide full body protection and they are ideal for fly fishing, where chances of getting wet from head to toes are pretty high.

In case you plan on going on an ice fishing trip, make sure you get a good and reliable pair of fishing shoes that are intended for the type of conditions you are going to face. These shoes should be able to protect you from cold, harsh winds, freezing water and ice. They are usually much more durable and they are made of thicker materials.

 

Style

There are a few styles of fishing shoes you can find right now on the market. From hiking boot style to light sneaker style, you will find anything in between, so it is only a matter of searching for a while for the right type of fishing shoes for your needs, to get what you want. Always keep quality in mind and do not overlook the reputation of the brand making the shoes you intend to buy. This way, you will avoid spending unnecessarily for a pair of fishing shoes you are not going to use.

 

Ankle support

A good solid pair of fishing shoes should be able to provide proper ankle support. River bottoms can be very unstable and you need to make sure that you do not end up with a broken ankle after a day spent fishing. Slippery surfaces are usually easily dealt with by having a pair of shoes with good traction, but, again, ankle support should not be overlooked. Even a slight turn can hurt your ankles and you will surely have to cut your trip short. A pair of shoes with good ankle support will provide you with the best balance and you will avoid many pains and unpleasant surprises if you are well equipped.

 

 

Sole type

As said before, traction is very important for fishing shoes. If the best boat shoes for fishing must be flat and light, the ones used for getting through the water a lot need to have soles that are specially designed to avoid slipping and falling. Rubber soles are a common occurrence in fishing shoes and their main role is to help you trek through the woods on long distances, with the same proficiency offered by a pair of hiking shoes. Offering good traction and sturdiness, these soles are preferred by anglers.

There is another type of soles for fishing shoes that will help you make the best out of your fishing experience. These are felt soles that are equipped with a thick layer of felt, whose main role is to grip well to wet surfaces. They are a better choice for rocky areas, and they may not be as good for trekking as regular rubber shoes. Another downside is that the felt tends to wear down, but it can be replaced, so you do not have to change your shoes altogether.

If you are looking for the best traction possible, you will not go wrong with cleated or studded soles. In case you plan on fishing in areas where slippery surfaces are the norm, a pair of these will help you a great deal. They have metal spikes built into the sole and these spikes provide excellent grip, even under the direst circumstances. For those who plan on fishing on rapid rivers, getting a pair of boot cleats is highly recommended, since slipping and hitting a rocky bottom can pose a serious threat for one’s life.

 

Materials

Many fishing shoes are made of rubber, synthetic materials, leather and felt, in various combinations. Rubber soles are the most recommended because they take after the shape of the rocks you are stepping on and they provide good traction. Felt is a material used for increasing this type of traction, and it is a good idea if you plan on fishing in areas where the danger of slipping and falling is high.

What you need to look for most and foremost is good quality materials. Water repellent synthetic materials are the norm for good quality fishing shoes, but rubber is not to be overlooked either. Synthetic leathers like Nubuck are known to be able to repel water, so there will be little to no water absorption. This way, you will not have to drag your boots filled with water after you for the entire day.

The laces must also be made of good quality materials. Cotton is not an option, because it tends to absorb a lot of water and it also breaks with the constant pressure applied on the laces during fishing. Nylon and polypropylene are a much better idea because they are resistant to water and can also handle a lot of pressure.

 

Size

Getting the right size of fishing shoes is very important for your comfort. You cannot simply buy the first pair that happens to be to your liking, without trying it first. As a rule of thumb, it is much recommended to get fishing shoes that are one size larger than your trekking boots. Why is this aspect important? You may need to protect your feet with a special type of socks, called wading socks, which are quite thick. Also, if you plan on going ice fishing, get a model that is even an extra half size larger, so you can protect your feet with thick socks. Thermal socks are always a good idea, but regular wool socks may fit the bill just as well.

 

Durability

Do not forget that fishing shoes need to be able to withstand a lot of wear and tear. Search for models with soles that are stitched, not glued, as these are the most durable. The shoe tongue should also be sewn directly into the side of the boot to prevent any small debris getting inside. A model with plenty of drainage hole and made of high quality materials will surely serve you for a long time.

 

 

Fishing shoes maintenance

 

Properly caring for your fishing shoes will surely prolong their lifespan and you will find that good maintenance can save you good money on the long run. The problem with spending so much time in water is even the most durable materials can become affected. While they are specially treated to be water repellent and resistant to mold, they can still feel the action of the elements, and you may have to find yourself in the unpleasant situation to have to purchase a new pair of fishing shoes, simply because you had no idea about the importance of proper maintenance. Here are a few tips that will help you out.

 

I. Shake off all the debris gathered inside

Although the best water shoes for fishing are designed to prevent debris from getting inside, this doesn’t mean that some stubborn pebbles or small debris cannot get in and rest on the bottom of your shoes. When you have to clean your shoes after a day spent fishing, make sure you start with this step. Any traces of sand, dirt or gravel should be removed so you can continue with the cleaning process.

 

II. Remove the mud in warm water

Get a plastic bin and fill it with some warm water. Soaking your fishing shoes caked with mud in warm water will help remove most of the filth. Do not use hot water as this can damage the structure of the materials used, like rubber. Use a brush to take off the mud and if you see that there are still areas from where mud doesn’t want to come off, try using a gentle liquid soap or liquid detergent. The chemical agents in strong detergents can ruin the integrity of your shoes and decrease their lifespan.

 

III. Rinse them with fresh water

It is very important to make sure that your fishing shoes do not have any trace of dirt or detergent left on them before you will hang them to dry. The best idea is to rinse them well with plenty of fresh water; using a hose is a great idea because the water pressure will eliminate the last stubborn sticky particles of mud or dirt on your shoes.

 

IV. Hang them to dry

Using heat to dry your fishing shoes is not recommended, because heat can damage the integrity of the materials used in making the shoes. The best way is to hang them to dry, so that wind and the natural air temperature can help eliminate moisture. You may have to wait for a while until your shoes will be perfectly dry, but it will be worth the wait.

Tip: You can use your washing machine, in case you are back home and you want to clean your shoes so they will be ready for the next adventure. Use a short program that doesn’t tumble too fast and only cold or, at best, lukewarm water. Avoid using chlorinated water, as chlorine has the bad habit of getting stuck to any material.

 

 

Most popular brands

 

While there are many models of fishing shoes on the market, you may be interested in learning about the best brands available. The footwear these manufacturers sell is made of high quality materials, is durable and highly appreciated by anglers.

 

Sporting an inspired name for their brand, seeing that the headquarters of the company is located in an area known for its heavy rains, Frog Toggs is renowned for the high quality rainwear they manufacture. Initially focused on producing traditional sporting products, the company afterwards expanded to making more outdoor activity oriented goods, including fishing shoes. They take great pride in offering stellar customer service and they say that their products are the result of the constant communication with clients. The wading shoes they make are comfortable, made of premium materials, and come equipped with anti-slipping features. Their waterproof boots are a good choice for fishing and they are very durable.

 

This company is known for working only with people with a passion for fishing, hunting and other outdoor activities, so their designs are inspired directly by those who know what is needed best when out in the field. They use a special type of fabric created by their designers, called CaddisDry, with triple layers, for ensuring that all moisture is kept away from the wearer’s feet and body. The waders they make are breathable, comfortable and completely waterproof, which is why they are recommended by many experienced anglers. The sewn seams they use are perfectly sealed, in order to provide anglers with the best experience possible, regardless of whether they want to go fly fishing or ice fishing.

 

The company that stays at the foundation of Hodgman started in 1838 and it specialized in premium rubber waterproof products. Throughout its history, the company collaborated and was owned by various other companies, specialized in similar products. The last owner of the company is Pure Fishing Inc., which illustrates, once more, the dedication of Hodgman for making the best quality items for anglers. Hodgman focuses on creating gear that is engineered to withstand the toughest conditions; before being launched on the market, their products are tested on the field, so that customers get only but the best. This company is known as one of the oldest and most reputable names in the industry for making waders and other outdoor apparel.

 

Caddis is known for the many innovations the company has brought in creating wading apparel. Their most recent innovation consists of creating eco-friendly soles for wading shoes that are completely felt free, without sacrificing any of the advantages offered by felt shoes. Because invasive species can be transported from one water body or wetland to another by the dirt and grime gathered by felt, more and more states are banning the use of felt shoes. The alternative offered by Caddis ensures that you will not hurt the environment in any way. Their EcoSmart II soles offer the same grip, support and stability as felt shoes.