What Paddle Board Shoes should you wear? (UK Guide for Every Season)

If there’s one piece of gear that’s consistently overlooked in paddle boarding, it’s footwear yet choosing the right paddle board shoes can make a bigger difference than you might think. From cold, numb feet in winter to slipping on rocky launch spots in summer, what you wear on your feet directly affects your comfort, balance and confidence on the water. After years of paddling in UK conditions, we’ve learned that having the right SUP shoes isn’t just a nice extra, it’s essential.

Choosing the right paddle board shoes isn’t just about comfort. It directly affects your balance, safety, and how long you can actually stay out on the water. After years of paddling in UK conditions  from glassy summer mornings to icy winter sessions, we’ve learned that your footwear can either enhance your paddle… or completely ruin it.

This guide is designed to give you a clear, experience-based answer to:

• What SUP shoes you actually need 
• How to choose the best paddle boarding footwear for UK conditions 
• And which options (wet shoes, water trainers, Wet boots) work best throughout the year 

By the end, you’ll know exactly what to wear and more importantly, what to avoid

Most paddlers only need neoprene SUP boots for colder months and optional water shoes for summer for rocky launches or shallow river paddling.

Now let’s break that down so you can choose the right paddle board shoes for your paddling style, location, and the time of year.

Do You Need Paddle Board Shoes?

One of the most searched questions around SUP footwear is whether you even need it in the first place.

The honest answer is: sometimes no but in the UK, usually yes.

Many beginners assume paddleboarding is always done barefoot, and in warm climates that can absolutely be true. Barefoot paddling gives you direct contact with your board, allowing for subtle adjustments in balance and stance. It feels natural and responsive, especially in calm, warm conditions.

However, the UK presents a very different environment. Even in peak summer, water temperatures can remain surprisingly low, and most launch spots aren’t soft sandy beaches. Instead, you’re often dealing with pebbles, rocks, mud, or slippery slipways. This is where paddle board shoes become far more than just an optional extra.

Wearing proper SUP shoes provides protection against sharp surfaces, improves grip when launching, and most importantly, helps regulate temperature. Cold feet can quickly lead to reduced stability, discomfort, and shorter sessions. In colder months, the lack of proper paddle boarding footwear can even become a safety issue.

We also highly recommend wearing wetshoes when paddling UK rivers as the water can be shallow and the riverbed full of sharp rocks, large boulders or even other random objects washed down river from winter floods. I have done this myself paddled barefoot only to hit a submerged boulder throwing me of the board and seriously hurt my toes and foot as I landed on sharp rocks, believe me it’s a risk not worth taking.

So, while you can paddle barefoot, and we certainly do wherever possible, you will still find that having the right paddle board footwear is essential depending on your paddling environment and will significantly improves your overall experience.

Types of Paddle Board Shoes (Wet shoes, Water Shoes & Trainers Explained)

Understanding the different types of paddle board shoes is key to choosing the right setup. Each option serves a different purpose, and the best choice depends on water temperature, conditions, and your paddling style.

Neoprene Paddle Board Boots & Wet shoes

Neoprene Wet Shoes are a very popular type of SUP footwear used in the UK, and for good reason. Designed specifically for watersports, they provide insulation, grip, and flexibility all essential for paddle boarding in cooler conditions.

The way neoprene works is simple but effective. It traps a thin layer of water between your skin and the material, which your body then warms up. This creates insulation that keeps your feet comfortable even in cold water.

When choosing neoprene paddle board Wet Shoes or boots, thickness is an important factor. A 3mm boot offers a good balance of warmth and flexibility, making it ideal for spring and autumn paddling. A 5mm boot, on the other hand, provides significantly more insulation and is the preferred choice for winter paddleboarding.

We personally do not bother with 3mm and instead prefer just a pair of NRS 5mm Wetshoes along with a pair of summer water shoes.

Another key advantage of neoprene SUP Wet Shoes is their sole design. Unlike rigid footwear, they are built to maintain board feel while still offering grip on wet surfaces. This is crucial for maintaining balance and control.

For most paddlers, a reliable pair of neoprene Wetshoe boots or basic wet shoes will form the foundation of their paddle boarding footwear setup.

Water Shoes / Aqua Shoes for Paddle Boarding

Water shoes, often referred to as aqua shoes, are often a lighter alternative to neoprene wet shoes and are typically used in warmer conditions. They are designed to be breathable, quick-drying, and easy to wear, making them ideal for summer paddling.

These types of paddle board shoes are particularly useful when launching from rough or uneven terrain, where going barefoot might be uncomfortable or unsafe. They provide enough protection to prevent cuts and slips, while still allowing your feet to stay relatively cool.

However, it’s important to understand their limitations. Water shoes do not provide much insulation, so they are not suitable for colder water temperatures. In the UK, their use is generally limited to late spring, summer and early autumn in warmer conditions.

This covers most of the paddle board season for many and remain a valuable part of a well-rounded SUP footwear setup, especially for casual paddlers or those who prefer lighter gear and are generally cheaper than a more specialised wet shoe.

Can You Wear Trainers Paddle Boarding?

This is one of the most overlooked aspects of paddle board footwear, yet it can be surprisingly effective.

Wearing trainers for paddle boarding might not sound conventional, but it’s a practical option in certain scenarios when the right trainers are used. Some experienced paddlers use old trainers combined with waterproof socks, particularly for longer touring sessions or when exploring areas that involve both paddling and walking.

Trainers offer durability, comfort, and familiarity. They are especially useful when launching from difficult terrain or when you expect to step on and off your board frequently and want to explore. However, they do come with downsides. They are heavier when wet, slower to dry, and not specifically designed for water use.

I have heard of people drilling holes in old trainers to aid drainage which in theory might work but the last thing you want to do is step on a sharp rock or twig that penetrates the sole of the trainer and the sole of your foot in the process!

We certainly do not recommend this, neither using traditional trainers but instead recommend dedicated Water Trainers also known as water sneakers like the JOBE Discover Sneakers that are designed for the water with special materials and drainage holes giving that trainer look and feel while retaining the properties of conventional SUP Water Shoes.

Style of shoes, boots, sling backs or elastic laces?

Shoes & Boots 

Correctly fitting shoes are essential if being worn whilst paddling. You want a snug fit so your feet don’t slide around whilst not being too tight restricting blood flow to your feet. It is essential that they are secure and they don’t fall off in the water if you take an unintentional dip.

For winter use or if scrambling over a rocky waters edge, boots are great option. In the cooler months they add extra warmth with added ankle protection against twists and sprains while clambering over difficult terrain carrying a large paddle board.

Sling backs or slip-ons

Sling backs or sliders style if you want to be trendy are our own personal favourites during the warmer months and what you will find us wearing. These are for people who mostly paddle barefoot and they are perfect for launching and landings. 

What makes them great is they are so easy to slip off when standing on your board or to quickly slip on when landing. The amount of times I have fallen of my paddle board while wrestling with footwear in choppy conditions is embarrassing. If I am honest I am not the most flexible but these slip-ons are a game changer for me and I love them.

However we do not recommend standing and paddling with slider style wet shoes on as they are not fixed to your feet and should be used for just entry and exit of the water and are ideally suited for barefoot paddling. If you want to keep something on your feet permanently get a full shoe.

Elastic Laces

You will find that a large majority of aqua shoes have some sort of lace mechanism with adjustable toggle and these are great if you plan on keeping them on while paddling. The adjustable toggle makes them relatively easy to get on and off and tension can be adjusted to the feel you want keeping them firmly on your feet.

We find these ok but personally prefer a sling back style for easy handsfree on and off. One point to be aware of which Kiriaki gets really annoyed with is the toggle themselves if they are short and on the front of the shoe. Whilst kneeling for long periods of time these can feel uncomfortable on the front of your foot and she has been known to just cut them off in the past which she finds just more comfortable.

What Shoes to Wear Paddle Boarding in the UK (By Season)

Seasonality plays a huge role in determining the best paddle board shoes. In the UK, water temperatures vary significantly throughout the year, and choosing the wrong footwear can quickly impact your comfort and safety.

Spring Paddle Boarding Footwear

Spring is one of the most misleading times of year for paddleboarding. While the air temperature begins to rise, the water remains cold after winter.

During this period, neoprene paddle board boots are still essential. A 3mm to 5mm boot provides the necessary insulation to keep your feet warm without sacrificing too much flexibility.

Many paddlers make the mistake of switching to lighter SUP shoes too early in the season, only to find their sessions cut short due to cold feet. In reality, spring often requires the same level of footwear as early winter depending on what type of winter we have had. Frosts and snow covered mountain peaks can make the water cold during early spring as it melts and makes its way from the mountains down into the rivers and lakes where the early spring sunshine is not strong enough to significantly warm the water. As spring progresses the water slowly gets warmer and as we approach summer a lighter shoe may be adequate.

Like everything with UK weather it can vary drastically from year on year so it really is a case of just playing it by ear but you will find us out on the water until mid to late spring still wearing our winter NRS Wet shoes.

Summer Paddle Board Shoes

Summer offers the most flexibility when it comes to paddle boarding footwear. In warm, calm conditions, paddling barefoot can be comfortable and enjoyable.

However, this isn’t always practical. Busy beaches, rocky shorelines, and longer paddles can make water shoes an essential piece of your paddle boarding equipment. Lightweight paddle board shoes provide protection without adding bulk, allowing you to maintain comfort while still benefiting from some grip and support.

For many paddlers, summer becomes a mix of barefoot paddling and the use of water shoes, depending on the conditions and for launching conditions. We did mention earlier the exception to this are those river paddles where we will always wear water shoes no matter how warm it is. 

One very important thing to mention here for new paddlers, please, please, please, if going barefoot in the summer make sure you use plenty of waterproof suncream and keep it applied. The amount of people we see with blistered feet through sunburn is crazy, always keep applied plenty of sunscreen, otherwise that will seriously cut your days out on the board short, be sensible!

Autumn SUP Footwear

Autumn is a transitional season, and your choice of SUP shoes should reflect that. As water temperatures begin to drop, it becomes increasingly important to switch back to neoprene footwear.

Even if the air still feels warm, the water can be significantly colder than expected. Neoprene wetshoes or boots provide the insulation needed to maintain comfort during longer sessions.

This is often the point in the year where paddlers who rely solely on summer footwear start to feel the limitations of their setup and where we will start thinking about switching back to our neoprene boots.

Winter Paddle Board Boots (Essential Gear)

Winter paddle boarding in the UK requires proper preparation, and paddle board boots are non-negotiable.

A 5mm neoprene boot is the standard choice for cold water conditions. It provides the insulation needed to prevent numbness and maintain control on the board. Without adequate footwear, even short sessions can become uncomfortable or unsafe.

High quality options like NRS Wetshoes are specifically designed for these conditions, offering durability, warmth, and grip in challenging environments.

If you are planning on being out on the water all through winter, then we would recommend getting a size up in neoprene boots so they can be paired with thermal socks. These give extra warmth in those cold winter months and an absolute must. You might also want to pair boots with some waterproof socks or even pop them over a drysuit with integrated feet. So plan accordingly and purchase the correct size for the type of winter paddling you think you will be doing.

For anyone planning to paddle through winter, investing in proper SUP boots is one of the most important decisions you can make.

How to Choose the Best Paddle Board Shoes

Choosing the right paddle board shoes comes down to understanding your environment and your needs.

Water temperature should always be your starting point. In the UK, this is often more important than air temperature, as cold water has a much greater impact on your body. Here is a rough guide of average water temperatures in the UK but the temperatures can vary depending on location, water depth and water source.

Fit is another crucial factor. Your SUP footwear should feel snug without being restrictive. Loose shoes can reduce stability and increase the risk of slipping, while overly tight footwear can become uncomfortable during longer sessions.

Sole design also plays a role. A good paddle board shoe should provide enough grip to handle wet surfaces, while still allowing flexibility for balance and board feel.

Finally, consider how and where you paddle. Rocky shorelines, muddy banks, and urban launch points all place different demands on your footwear. Matching your shoes to your environment will significantly improve your experience.

Wet Shoes vs Water Shoes vs Water Trainers (Quick Comparison)

If you’re still unsure, here’s a simple breakdown:

Type	Best For	Pros	Cons
Wet Shoes & Neoprene boots	Cold water	Warm, grippy, protective	Slightly less board feel
Water shoes / Aqua Shoes	Summer	Lightweight, breathable	Little insulation
Water Trainers	Touring & Exploring	Comfortable, durable, protective	Less Board feel, little insulation

Most paddlers don’t need all three or more paddle board shoes, just the right combination. A good pair of Wet Shoes and Water Shoes is enough to cover most scenarios using the barefoot option in between.

Common Paddle Boarding Footwear Mistakes

Many paddler boarders overlook the importance of footwear until they experience problems firsthand.

One of the most common mistakes is wearing unsuitable shoes, such as big heavy bulky shoes or wellies. You might laugh at wellies but yes we have seen on two occasions people on paddle boards wearing them. While they may seem waterproof and practical, they can fill with water and become dangerous if you fall in.

Another mistake is choosing footwear with overly thick or rigid soles. While protection is important, too much structure can reduce your ability to feel the board, making movement and balance more difficult.

Remember your footwear will get wet when launching so you want something that can easily drain water away so you feet are comfortable. The last thing you want is to be standing in a puddle of water inside your shoes for a couple of hours while out on the water.

Perhaps the biggest mistake, however, is wearing the wrong type of paddle board shoes for the season. Cold feet are not just uncomfortable; they can directly affect your performance and safety on the water.

Best Paddle Board Shoes for UK Paddlers (Expert Picks)

When it comes to choosing the best SUP shoes, it’s less about finding a single perfect option and more about building a setup that works year round.

For cold water paddling, neoprene boots such as NRS Mens Paddle Wetshoe or NRS Womens Paddle Wetshoe provide the warmth and durability needed for UK conditions. They are a reliable choice for spring, autumn and winter sessions, where insulation becomes a priority.

We have been using NRS wet shoes for years and we love them, they provide excellent grip both on and off the board and in our opinion the best winter paddle boarding shoe available.

For those looking for a more affordable option, basic wet shoes like the Jobe Aqua Shoe offer a solid entry point. They provide adequate warmth and grip, making them ideal for late spring and milder conditions. We will wear our NRS wet shoes until the water is warm enough to transition to the Jobe Sliders. These allow us to easily slip them on and off while on the board and find them fantastic.

In summer, lightweight water shoes come into their own. They offer protection and comfort without overheating, making them a practical choice for casual paddling. We are always bare feet whenever possible so again use our Jobe Discover Slide Sandals but another cheaper alternative is the Jobe Aqua Shoes which are great all round entry level shoes at an affordable price.

Then we come to rivers and during the summer months we typically use our Jobe Discover Sneakers which have great protection in the sole against anything lurking below the water surface. They are also extremely comfortable when travelling down rivers and idea for situations like on the river Wye where it has shallow sections during summer months and you are forced to carry your paddle boards. We find these Jobe Trainers excellent at giving the protection we need while also being comfortable allowing us to explore.

Oh also they look cool for those Pub stops for a quick pit stop for a bite to eat and pint in the summer sun!

What Paddle Board Shoes Do You Actually Need?

After all of this, the answer is surprisingly simple.

Most UK paddlers only need two types of paddle board shoes:

• A pair of neoprene boots (3mm–5mm) 
• A pair of lightweight summer shoes 

This combination covers almost every condition you’ll encounter especially if you go barefoot during warmer weather throughout the year. It keeps your setup simple, effective, and adaptable.

Final Thoughts: The Right SUP Shoes Make All the Difference

The right paddle board shoes don’t just keep your feet warm they improve your entire paddling experience.

From better balance and grip to longer, more comfortable sessions, the impact of good SUP footwear is immediate. Once you’ve paddled with the right setup, it’s hard to go back.

If you’re serious about getting the most out of your time on the water, investing in the right paddle boarding shoes is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

FAQs About Paddle Board Shoes

What shoes should you wear paddle boarding?

The best shoes for paddle boarding depend on the season and the type of environment. In the UK, neoprene boots are ideal for cold water, while water shoes or barefoot paddling work best in summer.

Do you need shoes for paddle boarding?

Not always, but most UK paddlers benefit from wearing paddle board shoes for warmth, grip, and protection. Most launches will require some form of foot protection other than a nice sandy beach.

Can you wear normal shoes paddle boarding?

Theoretically yes, trainers can be used in certain situations but will be heavy when wet and won’t drain water well. A specifically design water shoe is by far superior and recommended for paddle boarding.

What are the best SUP shoes for winter?

5mm neoprene boots are the best choice for winter paddle boarding, providing insulation and grip in cold conditions. Our top pick is the NRS Paddle Wetshoe

What are the best SUP shoes for summer?

Water shoes or aqua shoes for rocky launches then barefoot while paddle boarding. Slip on shoes are perfect and easy to get on and off while on your board.

What are the best SUP shoes for Spring and Autumn?

Early spring we still use Wet shoes as the water in the UK is still cold. Late spring, weather dependant we will use a lighter water shoe but mostly we recommend Wet shoes during early Spring and late Autumn.

What the difference between a Water shoe and Wet shoe?

Water shoes are usually light weight made from quick drying materials designed to protect feet both in and out of the water. Wet shoes are usually made from neoprene and have thicker soles to give better protection, grip and warmth in cold water. We say usually as the term can be used differently by manufacturers but a Water shoe is typically lighter and best suited to warmer water.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Paddle Board Shoes?

Explore our full range of paddle board shoes, including neoprene wet shoes and boots, water shoes, water trainers and summer options all chosen for real UK paddling conditions.