Vibram, manufacturer of performance soles for outdoor, recreational and work footwear, has issued advice on what to look for in footwear that performs well on or near the water, stressing the role of the outsole, the key component in an amphibious shoe. 

Tips for a successful water shoe search include:

- Request Features Germane to the Specific Watersport.  For example, a heel-and-toe bumper is important for increased protection to lightweight mesh uppers often found on boat shoes

- Water Sports Compound: Make sure your sole is made from a water sports compound that will provide excellent traction and slip resistance on wet or dry surfaces. The Keen Yogui features Vibram's TC4 water sports compound

- Tread Pattern: The tread pattern should feature large surface-area contact points for wet traction, and channels for directing water from under the foot, to minimize hydroplaning and prevent falls

- Lugs: Soles featuring lugs that act as suction disks on rocks and flat surfaces provide excellent traction.  Look for a self-cleaning lug design that sheds dirt and debris easily for superior grip and durability

- Sole Profile: A highly rounded sole profile like that found in Chaco's Z/1 and Z/2 sandals improves grip on rugged terrain and is ideal for sports such as kayaking and canyoneering. A flat profile found in the Sperry Gold Nautical Shoe is best for docks and boat decks

- Non-marking Rubber: Demand a non-marking rubber compound to eliminate the need for surface clean up

- Amphibious shoes should feature soles that provide superior traction, stability, flexibility and grip," explains Tony Post president of Vibram

Vibram soles have set its high standard since Vitale Bramani created mountaineering's first rubber lugged sole in the late 1930's. Today, the company works with brands such as Danner, La Sportiva, Lowa, Merrell, Montrail, Nike ACG, Red Wing, Scarpa, Vasque, Wolverine and many more.