TOP 12 Best Wading Boots for Saltwater Fishing (The 2024 Edition)

We all know that fishing in saltwater poses its own unique challenges.

Which is why our gear has to be as tough and durable as possible in order to withstand the harsh conditions.

And as much as this is true for our tools, so it is for clothing, apparel, and footwear.

With that in mind, I’ve put together a review of the best wading boots for saltwater fishing on the market.

A buyer’s guide will follow to help you make the right choice for your needs.

Let’s wade in.

Our Top 3 Saltwater Wading Boots for 2024

Product	Award	Our Rating	Review
Simms ZipIt II Flats Booties	Best Booties	4.5/5.0	Read review
Foxelli Wading Boots	Best On a Budget	4.1/5.0	Read review
Simms Flats Sneakers	Best of The Best	4.8/5.0	Read review

If you are looking for some lightweight booties to travel around the globe with, the Simms ZipIt II Flats Booties are them! They are durable, comfortable, offer great protection, and ensure your feet stay cool too. Order a size up though as they run small.

For anyone shopping on a budget, the Foxelli Wading Boots hit the nail on the head. They might not last as long as the Simms Flats Sneakers, but they offer similar comfort and performance in a much more affordable package.

The Simms Flats Sneakers are incredible. I wore these every day for 12 hours a day for 18 months, and they are still going. Durable as they come, comfortable, protective, and they drain super fast too. If you fish the flats a lot, get these!

How to Choose Saltwater Wading Boots

Uncomfortable feet equals unhappy fishing. Picking the right pair of saltwater wading boots is key to having a great time on the flats.

Here are the things to make sure your saltwater wading boots have.

If you follow these key features, you will end up with a great pair of saltwater wading boots. For a more detailed buying guide, look below the reviews.

TOP 12 Best Wading Boots for Saltwater Fishing

Foxelli Wading Boots

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The Foxelli Wading Boots are a great pair of saltwater wading boots for anyone shopping on a budget.

Built from durable nylon and soft microfiber, they are rugged and can handle wading the flats, and they are super comfortable too.

The removable OrthoLite insole is both provides comfort to your feet. The EVA midsole absorbs shock, and the rubber outsole ensures maximum grip and protection.

The excellent drainage keeps you light on your feet. The breathable outer layers ensure your feet stay cool, and the ankle support is awesome too.

The sizing is also accurate on these boots, they stay gripped to the bottom, and your feet will be both comfortable and protected.

The only downside is that they are bulky to travel with. But all boots with this much comfort, support, and protection are the same.

Pros

• Tough durable boots.
• Affordable.
• Comfortable with good sizing.
• Shock absorbing.
• Great grip and protection.
• Good ankle support.
• Breathable and good drainage.

Cons

• Not so portable.

Takeaway

The Foxelli Wading Boots are some of the best saltwater wading boots you can find at this price point. The comfort, support, and protection they provide is excellent and it is backed up with durability too.

Simms Challenger Boots

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The Simms Challenger Boots are built for wading in colder waters like when you are chasing stripers on the East Coast.

The vulcanized rubber and neoprene lining come together to ensure your feet stay warm when you are wading. This material combination is also as tough as nails!

These are not 100% waterproof boots, water is meant to get inside so the neoprene can keep you warm. But they will keep your feet dry in the rain when you are on deck.

The outsole is super grippy on all wet surfaces like slippery rocks. The foot bed is designed for ultimate comfort and shock absorption, so you are always comfy, even after long days.

Slipping these boots on and off is a dream, they are also light on your feet and drain quickly. They might be a little expensive for booties, but with a Simms Guarantee, they are worth it.

Pros

• Built for cold water.
• Keep your feet warm.
• Feet stay dry in rain.
• Awesome grip on all surfaces.
• Great protection and shock absorption.
• Non-marking for use on a boat deck.
• Easy on/off.
• Comfortable.
• Lightweight and portable.
• Simms Guarantee.

Cons

• A little expensive.

Takeaway

The Simms Challenger Boots are hard to beat when it comes to cold saltwater wading. Durable, warm, dry, comfortable, supportive, and super grippy, they are Simms quality through and through.

Hodgman Neoprene Wade Shoe

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Something altogether different now with this super-lightweight neoprene wade shoe from Hodgman.

They have been designed as the perfect boot for flats fishing, warm-weather wading, or even using them with fins in one of these awesome fishing float tubes.

Made using durable materials and tested in the toughest conditions, these shoes are right at home in the saltwater.

With a hook and loop cuff strap for improved ankle support and to help keep the sand out, you’ll feel protected all day long leaving you free to concentrate on catching more fish.

Pros

• Affordable price point.
• Lightweight and versatile.
• Gusseted YKK zipper.
• Non-slip, non-marking sole.
• Highly rated.
• Perfect for surf-fishing.

Cons

• Sizing can be a bit tricky – make sure to double-check before purchase.
• Not the best protection compared with more rugged boots.

Takeaway

If you’re looking for something lightweight and durable for some easy flats fishing in warmer climes – then you’ve come to the right place. And while you’re at it, you should take a look at this review on the best saltwater rods – perfect for a day casting in the surf.

Korkers Devil's Canyon Wading Boot

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Anyone who is at all familiar with wading boots will most likely have heard of Korkers – and their Devil’s Canyon model is as tough as it looks.

Made with hydrophobic upper materials, it offers faster drying times so as not to cause problems with invasive species.

The midsole has been fully enhanced with an anti-abrasion design, reduced seams, triple-stitched uppers and a solid, durable toe-cap to protect you from whatever is lurking under the surface.

Integrated, large drainage ports allow water run-off, while the interchangeable sole system lets you customize your boot to suit your needs.

Best of all, it incorporates their M2 Boa lacing system, to provide a custom fit and easy on/off, without the need to fiddle around with laces.

Pros

• Premium design and build quality.
• Includes studded and rubber-sticky sole options.
• Tough and durable.
• Rockguard ankle protection.
• EVA foam midsole.
• Protective stitching.

Cons

• Very expensive.
• The lacing disc system won’t be for everyone.

Takeaway

This boot is packed with industry-leading features, with the interchangeable Omnitrax sole system and disc lacing two of the highlights. This could well be the last wading boot you will ever own.

And don’t forget to pack a pair of quality saltwater fishing pliers for your next trip – which should be just as durable as these boots in corrosive environments.

Frogg Toggs Saltshaker Flats Boot

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There’s a strong chance we’ve all owned something made by Frogg Toggs at some point, particularly if we enjoy fishing in the rain.

The Saltshaker boot is aptly named, an attractive, lightweight saltwater fishing shoe that’s ideal for stalking the flats.

With a super-comfortable neoprene lining for easy-on and off, you can be sure to wear these all day without fatigue.

A reinforced midsole helps with shock-absorption, while the thick, luggy outsole is cleated to provide superior grip on slippery surfaces.

Anti-corrosion hardware is suitable for use in challenging and harsh conditions, and the anatomical collar protects your ankle with extra support and comfort.

Just right for fishing on the coast for as long as the weather stays fine – and even when it’s not.

Pros

• Name to trust.
• Affordable quality.
• Loop pull-on.
• Lightweight design.
• Versatile use.
• Ideal for surf fishing.

Cons

• They can run large – double-check your sizing.
• Might be a little too thin for heavy-duty use.

Takeaway

A highly versatile saltwater wading boot that is super comfortable to wear and should keep your feet protected in most conditions. And you should check out this review for more from Frogg Toggs, and the best rain gear for fishing on the market.

Complete Guide to Saltwater Wading Boots

Below you’ll find a handy buyer’s guide with some points on what to look out for when you’re in the market for a new pair of saltwater wading boots.

Do I Need a Saltwater Boot?

Saltwater can play havoc with your fishing tackle, equipment, and clothing. It’s totally merciless and non-selective.

Unless you’re using the right gear and/or you’re not taking proper care of it, your stuff can get destroyed in next to no time.

As such, it’s well worth choosing and using products that are specifically designed for saltwater use.

In this review, I’ve included several links to useful items like pliers, rods, and saltwater tackle bags that can stand up to these harsh conditions.

Your footwear is no exception – and arguably the most important part of your saltwater loadout. Wearing the right boot can make a real difference to your comfort, health, and overall fishing success.

And while you don’t need a dedicated saltwater boot, it’s highly recommended that you get one – especially if you’re doing a lot of fishing in such environments, and you don’t want to go through footwear as quickly as the weather changes.

Type of Boot

When it comes to saltwater wading shoes, there are generally three types to choose from.

Saltwater Boots

Saltwater boots will offer you the most protection, both to your toe, ankle and foot. Nobody wants to stub their toes into hard coral or rock – and yet it happens regularly.

A solid boot is going to make sure you don’t collapse head first into the water in pain. They also offer the best protection from rolling your ankle, which I believe to be one of the most common fishing injuries in the world.

And a high ankle design helps to stop sand and debris from entering the boot – which can seriously prevent your day from being ruined. Nobody enjoys the feeling of walking on Lego when they’re fishing.

However, boots are obviously much heavier than other designs, and will be more cumbersome as a result.

They’re not so good if you’re looking to stay light and nimble while moving from spot to spot, and for many anglers they’re overkill when fishing in warmer weather from the beach.

Flats Sneakers

Flats sneakers or wading sneakers take a small step down protection wise, but they are much lighter and more versatile. As such, they probably make the best wading boots for surf fishing.

Their hybrid design is extremely popular with anglers who want to retain a degree of foot protection, while offering the speed and dexterity of a sneaker.

They’re usually cheaper than boots, too, which makes them a better choice if you’re on a budget.

Neoprene Wading Booties

Neoprene wading booties are the most lightweight option, but – you’ve guessed it – they offer the least amount of protection for the feet.

Popular in warmer waters with soft, even, sandy bottoms, they also make excellent deck boots, as well as being practical shoes for kayak fishing.

While they’re a more sensible choice compared to going barefoot, you should still take great care if you come up against hazardous undersea terrain.

Obviously, the type you choose will depend on where you’re fishing, and what’s important for your needs.

Personally, I prefer the hybrid option which offers the best of both worlds, but your choice should be based on whatever the location and conditions demand.

Many keen anglers have a variety of boots in their arsenal to cover every eventuality – so it might be worth getting more than one.

Check out this guide for some awesome tips and tricks on beach fishing – so you’re fully prepared when you next head to the surf.

Ventilation and Drainage

Look for wading boots that offer the best possible drainage systems. We know they’re going to get wet, but they should have the ability to drain water, so you’re not carrying extra weight anytime you’re entering or exiting the water.

As such, shoes that are quick-drying are highly recommended. Especially for when you’re getting back in your vehicle to return to home base.

Likewise, they should be breathable, as nobody wants to spend the day in a sweaty boot. A well ventilated boot will also help prevent odor build-up, too – which can be a nightmare after a day of saltwater fishing.

Sizing

Now, here’s where things can get a little tricky, and you need to do a bit of extra research in order to select the right size first time.

Obviously, you need a boot that’s going to fit you well, so you should check with the manufacturer’s sizing guide beforehand.

Don’t simply rely on your normal shoe size, as when it comes to wading boots, in particular, you might have to go up or down a size for a snug fit.

Also, consider if you’ll be wearing the shoe with socks or going barefoot and adjust accordingly.

Soles and Lug

If you’re attempting to traverse sharp, rocky terrain, then you’re going to want a thick, puncture-resistant sole to help keep your feet protected.

Likewise, if the bottom is treacherously slippy (or anywhere your ass might go over your head) you need a thick, grippy lug to prevent that.

And a non-marking outsole is essential in most places, but particularly useful if you find yourself frequently on the decks of boats.

Adequate soles with good grip are vital for good wading shoes. Look for options that have interchangeable soles for versatility, or that are compatible with a set of cleats for extra traction and stability.

Materials and Durability

Another important consideration for wading boots is how durable are they doing to be?

You certainly don’t want something that’s going to fall apart after only a few trips out – which is possible if using inferior quality boots in saltwater conditions.

Look out for premium materials and construction. How the boot is put together is every bit as important as what it’s made from.

Check the stitching and seams in particular, as it’s at these stress points that problems can occur if the work is not up to standard.

Cost

Wading boots vary quite dramatically in price, but a rule of thumb is that the more rugged and protective it’s going to be – the higher the cost.

Again, consider your own needs, when, where, and how often you’re going to be using them. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get something suitable, especially if you’re not saltwater fishing regularly.

Care for Your Saltwater Wading Boots

Any angler worth their “salt” should already have developed a TLC system when it comes to looking after saltwater fishing gear.

The same must be said about your wading boots. Treating them well, conditioning them when required, and storing them properly will ensure they will last for years to come.

Always refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions – as they will vary from boot to boot, depending on the materials.

At the very least, you should be washing them in freshwater as soon as you’re possible, and leaving them somewhere away from strong heat sources to dry naturally.

Summary

While it is possible to fish barefoot in some situations, having the right kind of footwear will keep your feet comfortable and protected all day long.

And the best wading boots for saltwater fishing are particularly useful when it comes to those harsher, more unforgiving environments.

Let me know which boot you’ve gone for and why, or if I’ve missed your favorite product.

Tight lines everyone, and happy fishing!