Live by the beach? Love to run? If you’re anything like the other millions of Americans who are fortunate enough to live near the coastline, or you are able to call one of the many lakes in the US a neighbor of yours, you probably would love to take your exercise ambitions to one of those beautiful spots.
Or perhaps you’ve heard that running on sand is a great way to build muscle, so you would like to add it to your daily routine.
Either way, you no doubt want to find the best running shoe you can to fit your needs. As a runner myself, I have searched far and wide for a great running shoe, to only (at times) fall short.
Thus, I have done a lot of research and would like to share with you what I have found to be the best shoes for running on sand.
Table of Contents
What are the best shoes for running on sand?
Here is a quick preview of my top 6 picks for running on this terrain.
- Adidas Outdoor Terrex Agravic GTX
- New Balance Cypher
- Vibram V-Run
- NIKE Free RN Distance Shield
- Rax Quick Drying Slip-Resistant Aqua Water Hiking Shoes
- Norbi Outdoor Running Swimming Beach Unisex Light Aqua Water Shoes
I know everyone looks for something a little different in their pick for running shoes, however, I’m sure we can all agree, when it comes to running on sand, we all want a shoe that will certainly protect our feet from those potentially harmful shells, rocks and sticks that wash up from to time, as well a comfortable, well supported shoe. But that’s not all!
Many of us would love to have something that helps keep that water (and sand!) out, especially when that distant wave happens to come inshore a bit more than we expected.
So check out my picks for the best shoes for running on the sand below. I have listed both the Men’s and Women’s version of each shoe (if available) and made sure to give you a few options so as to pick out the best runner for your taste.
Adidas Outdoor Terrex Agravic GTX Shoe
Did you know Adidas has its own line of Outdoors shoes? Yes indeed, it is the Adidas Outdoor Terrex Agravic GTX shoe. Now I know what you’re thinking: “Aren’t all shoes technically made for the outdoors?”
Well yes, but these are specifically made with the Nature lover in mind, so it’s no wonder that they have come out with the ideal sneaker for running on the beach. To start, you will get an awesome grip while sprinting down that sometimes unstable sand, because these sneaks soles are made from Continental rubber, so you can expect to get that same grip you would from any good bike tire.
The GORE-TEX breathable design will make sure to keep that moisture out too. And I personally love the design of these running shoes. They have a very classic Adidas look, yet with a sporty flair and array of color choices.
These Terrex Agravic runners will have you running all over the place as you will not want to take them off!
Want to get the same look but in a Women’s version? If so, check out the ladies pair here!
(You might also enjoy reading: How many miles should you put on your running shoes?)
New Balance Cypher V1 Running Shoe
Next on the list of best shoes for running on sand are these Cyphers by New Balance. I personally love the New Balance brand, as they are known for great quality and comfort so it’s not surprising that they would come out with a shoe perfect for those long walks (or runs!) on the beach.
Their Cypher running shoe has a unique look when compared to any of their other running shoes, but let me assure you, they are just as grand. To begin, they are soooo comfortable, many raving about even wearing them to work, due to their cloud-like sole.
And though aren’t technically considered water-resistant, they have a slightly taller rubber sole than any running shoes out there and the upper mesh material helps keep moisture out.
Be sure to take a look at the Men’s version here.
Vibram V-Run Running Shoe
Vibram has made some really neat looking shoes lately and these V-Run running shoes are no exception. These running shoes check all the right boxes when it comes to the maximum running shoe for running in the sand.
First off, they have a very futuristic-like design with each toe having its own actual spot, a bonus for those of us that don’t like to get sand between our toes! They also have a nice pull cord, which can easily be adjusted to ensure the fit you’re looking for.
And with a punctured upper, these shoes not only eject any water that gets into them quickly but will keep those 10 toes and 2 feet breathing nicely on that afternoon run.
In fact, some have said that they are so breathable, its as if you are running barefoot- a nice feature for any beach fan.
Ladies, love the look of the V-Run shoes by Vibram? Check out their comparable Women’s version here!
NIKE Free RN Distance Shield Nylon Running Shoes
So if you are looking for the perfect combination of a running shoe, but want some protection from that wet sand you will encounter while taking your daily stroll on the beach, be sure to check out these Nike Free RN Distance Shield Nylon Running shoes.
They incorporate many great features, but the two most noteworthy feature is that they are water-repellent, keeping your feet nice and dry while running with the ocean every morning.
They also are an actual running shoe, so no gimmicks here, they were constructed with the everyday runner in mind, meaning excellent traction, to improve your grip on that sometimes slippery sand.
Plus the midsole was designed with special cushioning to not only give you flexibility in every step, but also a cozy, comfortable fit.
Available in a non-water-resistant version too, these are the ultimate in running shoes.
Like what you see? Check out the very similar Men’s Version here.
Rax Quick Drying Slip-Resistant Aqua Water Hiking Shoes
If you’ve never heard of the brand Rax before, no worries because after you see these shoes, you’ll probably never forget it. These Quick Drying, Slip Resistant Aqua Water Shoes are as close as you’re going to get when you want a shoe made for running on sand.
They were built with the outdoor enthusiast in mind, meaning they are a great option for walking on trails, hiking through streams, or even running on the beach.
In fact, these are truly a great shoe for being anywhere near water, as the fabric will dry very quickly and the sole itself was even made with water-releasing holes to clear out any saltwater those unexpected waves let in.
Oh and you won’t have to be concerned with slipping either on that damp sand, the traction on these Rax shoes are excellent due to the slip-resistant sole.
And they come in a bunch of super cool styles and colors, my personal favorite, the ‘Carbon’, all I can say is that you not only will love the feel of these, but you’ll be sure to love all the compliments you’re going to get in them as well.
Norbi Outdoor Running Swimming Beach Unisex Light Aqua Water Shoes
So you love all the options above, but you may be looking for something a bit simpler to try? If so, check out these Norbi outdoor running light water shoes. Yes, they definitely have more of a traditional water shoe look to them, but they are more than that.
They have a great rubber sole that will provide you with a nice grip while strolling down that white sand beach. Made from a spandex upper, many have mentioned how they stay tight to your ankles and feet, which helped keep the sand from entering the shoe.
They also are super lightweight, making them feel more like socks than shoes and are very flexible as well, so you can throw them in your bag without taking up much room at all.
Perfect for those who want to feel like they are running barefoot on the beach, but also want protection from those sharp shells and rocks that can easily wash ashore.
These Norbi water shoes are available in Blue, Rose and Red. Lastly, they look great on both men and women.
Which shoe have you found to be the best for running on sand? Let me know if the comments below!
