A day in the life of a lifeguard is more challenging than you can imagine!
From ensuring the safety of the swimmers to enforcing pool regulations, they have a lot on their plate. And, since they are always on their toes, a good pair of slip-resistant, comfortable, and protective shoes is a must-have for every lifeguard.
When my neighbor’s son Adams took up a job as a lifeguard, he rushed to me to find the best shoes for the job. Not knowing much about them, I contacted my friend Steve, who has prior experience working in the field.
And that’s when I learned about some of the best shoes that are comfortable, super-breathable, and easy to take off.
Hi, I’m Stacy Smith, and today I’ve put together a guide on the best shoes for lifeguards that are worth every cent. So, let’s dive in!
Top 5 Shoes For Lifeguards
1. Crocs Unisex-Adult Classic Clogs
Lightweight and water-friendly, the Crocs Unisex-Adult Classic Clogs are super-breathable and offer excellent grip on slippery surfaces. Available in more than ten colors, these shoes are easy to take on and off, making them perfect for lifeguards.
Product Highlights
To begin with, these clogs are made out of 100% synthetic fiber called Croslite and sport an ethylene vinyl acetate sole. No wonder they are soft, comfortable, and highly durable. They are also slip-resistant and have odor-resistant qualities, so you can go about your day without any worries.
Furthermore, you’ll be happy to know that they weigh only 3.8 ounces, which means they are super-light. And of course, the ventilated ports drain out water and debris, so you won’t feel discomfort even after long shifts.
What’s more, the pivoting heel shafts ensure a snug fit, which adds to the comfort on offer. Coming to options, besides slate gray, they are available in an array of colors, including cerulean blue, electric pink, chocolate, lemon, and neon purple.
And in case they get dirty, you need not worry as they are easy to clean. All you need is to scrub them with some soap and water, and your shoes will become as good as new.
What’s There To Like About It?
As a lifeguard, Adams was determined to go for shoes that were comfortable with a snug fit so that he could carry out his responsibilities without any issues. So, when he came across these clogs by Crocs, he decided to give them a go.
Thanks to the traction outsoles, they provide an excellent grip on wet and slippery surfaces. Another thing Adams raves about is that they are incredibly comfortable, super breathable, and slip-resistant.
Owing to their functionality and durability, these shoes are perfect for both pool and beach lifeguards.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
The only downside is that the Crocs Classic Clogs aren’t the most stylish pair of shoes out there. However, they offer exceptional traction, are lightweight, and are easy to clean, which makes them a valuable purchase.
Pros and Cons of Crocs Unisex-Adult Classic Clogs
Pros
Cons
- Runs large. Size down if between sizes.
- Iconic Crocs Comfort: Lightweight. Flexible. 360-degree comfort.
- Incredibly light, water-friendly, and buoyant
2. Speedo Men’s Water Shoe Surfwalker Pro 3.0
If you’re looking for shoes that are stylish yet functional, the Speedo Men’s Water Shoe Surfwalker Pro 3.0 will fit the bill. With a stretch upper, s-trac outsole, and a seaweed footbed, these shoes are ultra comfy and make for a pleasant beach experience.
Product Highlights
Coming from the number one swim brand worldwide, the Speedo Men’s Water Shoe Surfwalker Pro 3.0 leaves no stone unturned to protect your feet from rocks, sand, and debris. Thanks to the cushioned insoles, these shoes offer excellent impact protection.
In addition to that, the s-trac technology outsoles drain water from the shoes as you walk, enhancing traction. Therefore, they offer excellent slip resistance in pools or on slippery surfaces.
Boasting a stretchy pull-on upper with mesh inserts, these shoes hug your feet perfectly, which means you can wear them all day long without experiencing any discomfort. They also feature neoprene uppers which are waterproof and provide thermal comfort to the feet. So, you can rest assured they will keep your feet warm and pleasant.
All things aside, they are highly breathable and are constructed out of quick-drying materials, which is another impressive attribute.
What’s There To Like About It?
When Steve heard about our plans to visit Typhoon Texas, a water park, he had lent my husband these shoes from Speedo.
They were super comfy and durable, and my husband couldn’t stop raving about the pair. The shoes provide excellent grip on poolsides. Besides, he mentioned that the shoes kept his feet warm and protected them from debris and rocks in the water park.
Speaking of comfort, the seaweed footbed provides unrivaled comfort to the feet, which is why it’s one of his favorite shoes for pools or beaches.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Durable, slip-resistant, and highly breathable, they are perfect for lifeguards looking for affordable shoes. However, unlike the Crocs Unisex-Adult Classic Clogs, the shoes aren’t true to their size and tend to run smaller than the advertised size. Hence, I’ll suggest buying a pair one size up.
Pros and Cons of Speedo Men’s Water Shoe Surfwalker Pro 3.0
Pros
Cons
- Water shoe is designed to fit tight, if looking for looser fit please size up
- Stretch upper allows for pull-on entry and secure fit
- S-trac outsole offers no-slip grip
3. KEEN Women’s Venice H2 Sandals
How could I have not reviewed a pair of shoes for all the lovely women lifeguards out there? Ladies, the KEEN Women’s Venice H2 Sandal is an absolute must-have in your beach arsenal. Made out of rubber, these sandals are available in a variety of colors, so you are free to order the ones you find the most alluring.
Product Highlights
Though strikingly modern in design, the KEEN Women’s Venice H2 Sandals don’t compromise on comfort and functionality. Featuring an open strapping system made out of polyester webbing, these sandals keep your feet ventilated, so you can bid farewell to sweaty and smelly feet.
Thanks to the multi-directional lugs with razor siping, the grippy outsoles provide excellent traction on rocky beaches and slippery pools. Adding to that are compression molded EVA midsoles that deliver outstanding cushioning and shock absorption.
What’s particularly impressive is that the sandals are fashioned with metatomical footbeds that contour to the natural shape of the foot and provide adequate support.
Over and above that, each pair has a TPU shank for extra stability and reinforcement. Unlike other sandals, they are designed using materials that are free of PFC, which means they can withstand water, heat, and other harsh elements.
What’s There To Like About It?
Last year, one of my son’s friends, Christine, started working as a lifeguard to support her family, and it was then that I gifted her a pair of this footwear. Besides being impressed with the cool and modern design, she liked the fit of the sandals as they were true to her size.
Much like Christine, other lifeguards will appreciate the fact that they are easy to clean. In fact, you can toss them into the washing machine for a gentle wash and air dry them.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Without a doubt, the KEEN sandals are an excellent option for women who patrol the beach. They are a blessing for those with wide feet, but my only complaint is that the straps aren’t that adjustable. In that case, the Speedo Men’s Water Shoe Surfwalker Pro 3.0 might be a better option as they’re slip-ons with no hassles of straps.
Pros and Cons of KEEN Women’s Venice H2 Sandals
Pros
Cons
- MATERIALS: Washable polyester webbing featuring quick-dry lining for all-day use in and out of the water; PFC-Free, durable water repellent helps shed water and prolong the quality and life of the material in women’s sandals
- SUPPORT & COMFORT: Lace-up with hook-and-loop strap closure system provides a secure fit while offering a quick and easy way to get them on and off; Compression-molded EVA midsole for enhanced cushioning
- TRACTION: Multi-directional lugs with quick water channeling help provide superior grip on wet terrain; Non-marking rubber outsole leaves no imprint when walking indoors
4. NORTY Mens Aqua Sock Wave Water Shoes
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Whether you work at pools, beaches, or rivers, the NORTY Mens Aqua Sock Wave Water Shoes provide good traction and protection to the feet. Waterproof and breathable, these shoes are easy to slip on and off.
Product Highlights
Available in more than ten color combinations, these shoes from the house of NORTY sport non-slip grip rubber outsoles that offer top-notch protection and traction on slippery surfaces. Pebbles, broken glasses, or sizzling concrete - no matter what you encounter, they are truly up to the task of keeping your feet safe from injuries.
Besides, they feature mesh panels for proper airflow and to channel water, so you can move swiftly from one spot to another. And thanks to the stretchable neoprene upper, they are easy to put on and pull off, even when your feet are damp.
Furthermore, the brand offers shoes in two styles - strong fabric closure and adjustable drawstring cord. Irrespective of the style you go for, the shoes will hug your feet and won’t come off until pulled off.
Lastly, they are made out of 100% synthetic fiber, which is why they are water-resistant and will retain their form.
What’s There To Like About It?
When I came across this pair of shoes, I was highly impressed by the non-slip grip rubber outsoles that protect lifeguards from injuries on slippery surfaces. And, since it features a neoprene upper, you can rest assured that it will last longer than rubber or other materials.
Also, the shoes come in 18 different color combinations, which means you get a plethora of options to choose from. Last but not least, the brand backs its shoes with a 30-day guarantee, which is the icing on the cake.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Considering its performance and breathability, this pair is one of the best shoes that you can invest in. The only downside is that unlike the KEEN Women’s Venice H2 Sandals or the Crocs Unisex-Adult Classic Clogs, it isn’t designed for people with broad feet.
Pros and Cons of NORTY Mens Aqua Sock Wave Water Shoes
Pros
Cons
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5. Quiksilver Men’s Amphibian Plus II Water Shoes
Still haven’t found the right shoes for your job? Well, your search ends here because the Quiksilver Men’s Amphibian Plus II Water Shoe is right up the street with its anti-odor technology. Also, it is highly breathable, which means it will keep your feet fresh all day long.
Product Highlights
Featuring a one-piece breathable no-sew mesh upper, these shoes are available in three color combinations. Thanks to the cinch lock-up lace vamp, they come with a snug fit, making them perfect for the job of a lifeguard.
What’s particularly impressive is that they are designed with the Lava XL anti-odor technology. So, whether you wear it for a few hours or more than eight hours, this pair of shoes will keep sweat and odor away from your feet.
In addition to that, the shoe features mesh liners that provide unrivaled comfort and are highly breathable.
Engineered with drainage ports in the soles, they drain water, preventing them from pooling inside. With innovative solutions, the brand has mastered the technique of hiding footbed seams and lines, so you can wear them without putting on socks.
Not to forget, the shoes provide excellent traction both in and out of the water, thanks to the rubber outsoles.
What’s There To Like About It?
First and foremost, I liked the sturdy construction of this pair of shoes. With rubber outsoles, drainage ports, and spacer mesh liner, it spares no efforts to ensure you’re at ease.
In addition, these shoes win brownie points for being engineered with the anti-odor technology, keeping your feet fresh all day long. I was also impressed with the fit guide that the brand offers for US, France, and UK customers, making it easy to pick the right size.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Super breathable and ultra comfy, the Quiksilver Men’s Amphibian Plus II Water Shoes is undoubtedly one of the best in its price range. However, my only complaint is that it takes slightly longer to dry than the others on the list. Thus, if you’re looking for quick-drying shoes, the NORTY Mens Aqua Sock Wave Water Shoes will be the best bet.
Pros and Cons of Quiksilver Men’s Amphibian Plus II Water Shoes
Pros
Cons
- Engineered drainage ports in sole
- Water friendly engineered with boardshort technology
- Anti odor coating
Buyers Guide
Though knowing the five best options helps to a great extent, choosing the best shoes remains a daunting task.
That’s because there are plenty of factors that lifeguards need to consider when buying shoes that are a perfect fit for their job. For instance, you might pick up a shoe that is breathable, comfortable, and dries quickly, but it would be of no use to you if it isn’t slip-resistant.
Therefore, you cannot pick any shoes that you come across on the market. Having said that, I compiled a list of certain important factors that you must keep in mind when buying shoes for patrolling the beach. So, let’s check them out.
1. Budget
By now, you know that the market is saturated with a ton of options, and some of them are pretty expensive. So, if you truly wish to invest in a quality pair, know that you’ll have to spend a tad bit.
Although there are a few brands that supply a decent pair of shoes at reasonable prices, not all of them are trustworthy. After preparing a budget, browse for options that fit your price range and buy them only when you find positive reviews from previous customers.
2. Material
Another thing that you must consider while buying shoes is the material they are made of. Of course, a lifeguard cannot go for shoes made of leather because they aren’t resilient enough to withstand the water, heat, and other weather conditions.
So, when shopping for shoes, I suggest going for ones made out of 100% synthetic fiber because they are water-resistant. This means they won’t get stained or damaged like leather and will retain their form.
Moreover, such shoes are lightweight and designed to last longer than those made of other materials.
Another material that lifeguards can consider is neoprene, as it is resistant to water and other weather conditions. Not only that, but it also protects the feet from pebbles, rocks, broken glasses, and more.
3. Fit
Besides comfort and protection, go for shoes that offer the right fit, or you won’t be able to perform your best as a lifeguard. That’s because shoes that aren’t your size are likely to cause discomfort, making it impossible for you to wear them the entire day.
When buying online, referring to the fit guide of the company is the best way to buy the correct size of shoes. Alternatively, I suggest reading customer reviews to determine whether the shoes are true to size or not.
4. Design
Your job as a lifeguard is to supervise the swimmers, save people from drowning, inform the public about the rules of the beach or the pool, and so on.
As a rule of thumb, go for shoes that complement your attire and are well-suited to the nature of your job. In case you’re unable to decide which design to opt for, simply pick anyone from this list, and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
5. Money-Back Guarantee
What if you buy a pair of shoes only to find out that they aren’t the right size or don’t match your requirements? That’s why going for brands offering a generous money-back guarantee is recommended.
When your shoes arrive, try them and see if they are a perfect fit and comfortable. In case they don’t tick all the boxes, simply send them back and ask for a full refund, so you won’t lose your hard-earned money.
6. Drying Time
As your job demands being in and around water for at least eight hours, going for a pair of quick-drying shoes is important.
Keep in mind that not every brand offers shoes made out of quick-drying materials, which is why you must choose your pair carefully. I suggest going for shoes that feature mesh panels as they don’t take much time to dry.
Alternatively, shoes that are engineered with hydrophobic mesh lining are quick-drying, so you might as well opt for them.
7. Easy To Wear
Lastly, the pair of shoes you choose must be easy to slip on. At the same time, you should be able to take them off without much hassle, even when your feet are damp.
Ideally, I suggest going for shoes that feature an adjustable drawstring cord or fabric closure, as they are easy to put on. Or, you can go for slip-on shoes, such as Crocs because it hardly takes a few seconds to put them on. Even shoes with stretchable neoprene uppers are a good option for lifeguards.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, leather isn’t the right choice for lifeguards because it isn’t compatible with water. Hence, your shoes will start deteriorating after a few hours of coming in contact with seawater.
If the brand states that their shoes are “true to size,” you can order the size you usually wear. However, make sure you check the size guide offered by the company to ensure you order the right one. In case you aren’t sure which size to go for, ordering a size up is the best bet.
My Final Recommendation
With that, I’ve reached the end of my guide on the topic.
Not to deny, being a lifeguard can be both fun and demanding, but a comfortable pair of shoes will keep your feet comfortable and safe from injuries. Of course, the shoes you go for must be supportive, slip-resistant, and offer great traction so that you can perform all the tasks without any issues.
Before I sign off, here’s a quick rundown of my favorites. The Crocs Unisex-Adult Classic Clogs are my top pick because they are lightweight, super comfy, and designed to last long.
However, if you’re looking for a trendy yet functional pair of shoes, look no further than the Speedo Men’s Water Shoe Surfwalker Pro 3.0.
And that’s it for today. Take care!