5 Things to Know About Neoprene Water Shoes

Choose thin rubber soles They grip wet rocks better than Crocs or flip-flops, and the thin sole lets you feel the surface for better stability.

Avoid standard sneakers and sandals Sneakers hold sand like a bucket, and sandals let sand rub against your foot while failing to grip wet surfaces.

Skip chunky aqua socks with thick tread Thick tread packs solid with dry sand, making you slip instead of grip.

Look for a close fit with fast drainage Neoprene booties or shoes like Vibram FiveFingers with sticky rubber outsoles work best. No laces that catch sand, and holes or mesh that drain fast.

Don’t buy cheap foam-soled store brands The $15 knockoffs with foam soles are a slip hazard on wet rocks.