Speedo Surf Knit Pro - Best Budget Water Shoes

The Speedo Surf Knit Pro represents excellent value in the water shoe category, providing essential features without unnecessary frills. Its stretchy polyester-knit upper offers a sock-like fit that's comfortable for barefoot wear, while the rubber outsole provides adequate protection from hot sand and sharp objects. Testing showed these shoes dried completely in just 2.5 hours with insoles removed, outperforming many competitors in this price range. The ribbed removable insoles offer moderate cushioning, though they lack the arch support found in more expensive models.

Available in over ten colors across men's and women's sizes, the Surf Knit Pro maintains Speedo's reputation for quality swim products with tight stitching and durable materials considering its budget classification. While not as rugged as canvas or neoprene options, the lightweight design (just 7 ounces per shoe) makes them ideal for travel, packing down easily for vacations. The shoes perform best in casual water environments rather than technical terrain, with sufficient grip for pool decks and sandy beaches but less traction on slippery river rocks. For occasional users or those needing secondary pairs for family outings, the Surf Knit Pro delivers reliable performance at a reasonable cost.