Water Shoes: A Very Cool Idea! By Candida Eittreim on - Updated Oct 15, 2011
We love going to our local rivers, lakes and of course the simply gorgeous Pacific Ocean. Most of the time we move between sand water and rocks as we explore these beautiful areas. And that often created problems with our feet. Because these areas often have hidden hazards: sharp rocks, pop top tabs and broken glass, it wasn't unusual for one of us to get nicked at least once during a trip. And of course wearing shoes to go wade in shallows or climb dunes or hills wasn't practical.
One night, while surfing Lands End, I spotted these strange looking shoes and decided to find out more. It said these shoes were designed to be completely self draining, offer support and were antimicrobial. Best of all you wear them in many of the situations we found ourselves in every summer. I really loved the idea and figured if they did what they claimed, it would certainly save our other shoes from getting waterlogged and ultimately damaged.
I ordered a pair in bright blue, after thinking about how quickly white would become totally grungy. I love them! Not only are these comfortable, they are cool to wear on a hot summers day, dry in just minutes and never get the dreaded sneaker stink. They are wonderful to wear when navigating hot beach sands or wading in the surf looking for shells. Because of the mesh fabric, very little sand gets trapped in the sneaker to irritate your feet. Before heading out for home, we simply rinse them off, shake them dry and they're ready for your next adventure.
They offer these at $19.50 in children's sizes with stretchy lacing, and in mens too. We all have a pair and are going on our third year with no signs of wear yet. Now I call that a very good deal:)
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Lands End Sea To Shore Sports Shoe Purchased at: Lands End Price: $29.95
These are very similar to what the stores here sell as reef walkers. I think these are such a great product. They sure do save your regular shoes from getting ruined in the ocean or on the rough rocks. I think we kept ours for at least two years and then they started to stink. They were so inexpensive that we just tossed them and bought another fresh pair. These are great for the little ones too. That way they don't slip and fall on the algae covered rocks.
THey look solid and comfortable. We just usually wear our water shoes but these look more durable & comfortable.