The 13 Best Boots for Scuba Diving for Open-Heel Fins

Not all diving environments are favorable for humans, so having the best boots for scuba diving is necessary. They’ll ensure your dive adventures are safe and comfortable. However, deciding on the right pair of snorkeling booties or dive shoes can be tricky.

Choosing the best scuba diving boots depends on the thickness needed for your desired dive location’s water temperature. The size and fit, sole type, and whether they include a zipper are also crucial factors. Some dive boots worth the investment include Cressi Isla for budget-conscious divers, Mares Trilastic for protection, and Seac Pro HD for colder climates.

So, what are the best diving boots for open-heel fins? This post explores the top options, and we’ll guide you in choosing the best for your needs and preferences.

The Best Scuba Boots – A Quick Overview

1. Best Budget Scuba Boots: Cressi Isla Boots
2. Best Scuba Boots for Colder Climates: Seac Pro HD Boots
3. Best Low-Cut Scuba Diving Boots: Scubapro Delta Short Boots
4. Best Balance Between Protection and Performance: NeoSport Boots
5. Best Boots for Scuba Diving for Maximum Protection: Mares Trilastic Boots
6. Best Value for Money: Henderson Thermoprene Low Boot
7. Best for a Snug Fit: O’Neill Heat Boots

Disclaimer: We are entirely reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. This does not affect our opinion of the products linked, which is 100% impartial and unbiased.

Why Use Boots for Scuba Diving

Dive boots aren’t necessary in all scuba diving cases. However, there are several reasons to bring them along on your dive, including:

• Protection: Dive boots keep your feet safe before, during, and after dives. They offer a barrier against being cut on shells, coral, and rocky terrain. Plus, they provide a layer of protection from the bites and stings of aquatic life if you unintentionally kick them.
• Insulation: If you’re diving in cooler water, dive booties will keep your feet warm. The extra neoprene layer will prevent the cold from seeping into your body, ensuring comfort during your dives. Dive boots and fins with an open heel are especially a perfect combination.
• Comfort: Fins with a strap that fits around your heel can put pressure against bare skin. This can lead to blisters and sores. To prevent that, pair dive boots and fins. They’ll ensure the fin straps don’t chafe your skin and you’re comfortable during your dives.
• Traction: Scuba diving boots are designed with traction to prevent accidents on slippery surfaces during dives.

The Best Boots for Scuba Diving for Open-Heel Fins

1.  Cressi Isla Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best Budget Scuba Boots

Divers can find a reliable and practical dive companion in the Cressi Isla Boots. They have a robust construction with thoughtful design features to enhance longevity and performance in various underwater environments. The toes and heels are reinforced for added protection, yet they’re comfortable. Still, ensure you get the right size, as roominess can result in waterlogging.

What You Need to Know

The Cressi Isla Boots are designed with durability and comfort in mind. They come in 5mm and 7mm, with a tough nylon 2 neoprene material construction. Therefore, they balance toughness and insulation, ensuring warmth during dives.

A built-in fin strap holder ensures convenience when wearing open-heel dive fins. Moreover, the ribbed rubber soles provide a secure grip on slippery surfaces, enhancing safety.

Thanks to its super elastic neoprene, the Isla booties are easy to slip on and take off. The inclusion of strong and durable zippers, complemented by a sealing flap, prevents water seepage. And the toe and heel caps reinforce high-wear areas, boosting the boots’ longevity.

Overall, the Cressi Isla Boots are among the best boots for scuba diving because they offer a reliable and practical solution for divers. 

Specs & Features

• Price: $43.50
• Material: Nylon 2 Neoprene
• Thickness: 5mm/7mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Glued-and-Sewn
• Closure: Zipper

What We Like

• Built-in fin strap holder that ensures compatibility with open-heel fins
• Zipper for easy donning and doffing
• Reinforced toe and heel
• Extremely flexible

What We Don’t Like

• Small drainage holes result in some heat loss
• Boots are roomy, which could lead to waterlogging

2.  Seac Pro HD Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best Scuba Boots for Colder Climates

The Seac Pro HD are among the best boots for scuba diving in cold water. They have a 6mm thickness for unparalleled protection in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15.6°C). Additionally, they feature a hard sole, offering maximum protection against sharp rock faces and corals. While they’re pricier than other scuba booties, they make a durable investment. 

What You Need to Know

The Seac Pro HD boots are excellent for professional divers in colder climates. They are crafted from nylon 2 neoprene and designed with a rigidly molded, high-grip sole, offering superior impenetrability.

Comfort and support are prioritized with these boots. This is achieved through the arch support and heel air bubble to reduce stress when carrying heavier scuba gear. 

The fin strap heel lug prevents fin straps from slipping off while entering the water. And the easy-to-grip zipper and reinforced hook-and-loop closure on the side ensure easy entry and a secure fit during dives.

Furthermore, Seac’s Pro HD boots feature over-molded toe and heel caps that prevent wear during finning. The seams are both glued and sewn for enhanced strength and durability. Plus, the elastic seam-taped and sewn top edge of the boots’ upper adds further reinforcement.

Specs & Features

• Price: $99.90
• Material: Nylon 2 Neoprene Rubber
• Thickness: 6mm
• Type of sole: Hard
• Seams: Glued and Sewn
• Closure: Zipper, Hook & Loop Fastener

What We Like

• Sturdy, thick sole ensures maximum protection in underwater environments
• Comfortable feel
• Great arch support
• Provide extra warmth underwater

What We Don’t Like

• Only available in 6mm thickness
• Higher price point than the other best boots for scuba diving

3.  Scubapro Delta Short Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best Low-Cut Scuba Diving Boots 

The Scubapro Delta Boots are ankle-high, slip-on-and-off boots that offer comfort, durability, and ease of use. As a result, they’re suitable for a range of water activities in warmer climates. These 3mm-thick boots are made from nylon 2 neoprene and designed with sewn seams and an elastic-taped top. 

What You Need to Know

Scubapro’s Delta Short Boots are designed for warm water diving and sports. Therefore, they also double as snorkeling booties. 

The boots are constructed from 3mm X-Foam, a petroleum-free limestone neoprene. Therefore, they provide warmth in temperate conditions while protecting your diving environment from toxins.

Additionally, the Delta Short Boots have a slip-on design that eliminates the need for zippers, offering convenience when donning and doffing. They also have sewn seams for enhanced strength and durability. Plus, the top is elastic-taped for added reinforcement and easy donning.

Specs & Features

• Price: $63.00
• Material: Nylon 2 Neoprene
• Thickness: 3mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Seams
• Closure: None, slip-on

What We Like

• Feature a slip-on and off design, making them easy to put on and take off
• Lightweight and flexible
• High-quality material
• Designed for warmth and comfort

What We Don’t Like

• Only available in whole sizes, which may not be ideal for divers with half-sized feet

4.  NeoSport Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best Balance Between Protection and Performance

NeoSport’s Hi-Top Zippered Boots offer a combination of premium materials, robust construction, and user-friendly features. Therefore, they’re a reliable choice if you seek durable, high-performance water footwear. Water ingress might occur, but these boots ensure uninterrupted underwater exploration.

What You Need to Know

The NeoSport Hi-Top Zippered Boots are crafted from premium nylon 2 neoprene. They also have glued and sewn seams with heavy-duty abrasion-resistant thread for added strength that ensures longevity.

Designed for safety, the boots feature a durable puncture-resistant traction sole that provides a reliable grip on slippery surfaces. Plus, toe and heel cap reinforcements enhance durability in high-wear areas.

Thanks to the heavy-duty #10-Zipper, putting on and taking off the boots is convenient. Additionally, expect to remain toasty while wearing these boots because of the water-entry-barrier (WEB) behind the zipper.

Specs & Features

• Price: $53.95 – $55.99
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber
• Thickness: 3mm/5mm/7mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: #10 Zipper

What We Like

• High-traction sole that provides stability
• Suitable for various water activities, including diving and snorkeling
• Durable thanks to sturdy, premium neoprene, glued and sewn seams, and reinforced toe and heel
• Comfortable to wear and provide good foot support
• Easy to put on and take off

What We Don’t Like

• May experience water seepage despite water barrier design

5.  Mares Trilastic Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best Boots for Scuba Diving for Maximum Protection 

Divers seeking maximum protection while diving will find a practical choice in the Mares Trilastic Dive Boots. These 5mm/6mm boots are a sturdy option for temperate water diving, designed for long-lasting performance. While they feature a hard sole, they’re comfortable and won’t reduce your mobility underwater. 

What You Need to Know

The Mares Trilastic 5mm Dive Boots are made of durable nylon 2 neoprene material, with a hard rubber sure grip sole. The robust construction features a comfortable hard sole. And they’re specifically engineered to enhance control and power transmission during finning.

Both the front and heel of the Trilastic boots are equipped with vulcanized rubber, reinforcing high-wear areas. And the heel has a fin strap lug to prevent shifting during underwater activities. 

The boots’ ankles are constructed from super-elastic neoprene for comfort. In contrast, the lower section comprises standard neoprene for warmth and adherence.

Donning and doffing is easy thanks to the reliable zipper entry. A zipper dam is also incorporated in the design to prevent water seepage. And all seams are glued and sewn for increased strength and durability.

Specs & Features

• Price: $119.95
• Material: Nylon 2 Neoprene 
• Thickness: 5mm/6mm
• Type of sole: Hard
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: Zipper

What We Like

• Suitable for cold water
• Zipper dam to prevent water ingress
• Comfortable hard sole with a firm grip
• Heels and toes constructed from vulcanized rubber

What We Don’t Like

• Zipper may start jamming with prolonged use

6.  Henderson Thermoprene Low Boot

Our Expert Opinion: Best Value for Money 

The Henderson Thermoprene Low Boots strike a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness. They provide greater flexibility and enhanced features compared to standard neoprene booties. Plus, they have a user-friendly design, durability against wear, and additional features for divers seeking value without compromising quality. 

What You Need to Know

Henderson’s Thermoprene low boots are crafted from high-quality neoprene and a low pill fabric. This wetsuit material provides 75% more stretch than standard neoprene, enhancing flexibility without compromising on cost. As a result, they’re the best boots for scuba diving for budget-conscious divers.

The Thermoprene boots require less effort to don than standard boots. Therefore, their ease of wear may be appealing if you struggle with putting on your gear. 

Featuring an abrasion-resistant fabric on their exterior, the Thermoprene boots are durable. As a result, your fin straps and foot pockets won’t wear them out. Besides that feature, these boots have a durable traction sole, glued and sewn seams, heavy-duty abrasion-resistant thread, and a puncture-resistant sole.

Specs & Features

• Price: $41.99
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene
• Thickness: 3mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: None, slip-on 

What We Like

• Great value for money
• Made from soft and comfortable premium 3mm Thermoprene neoprene material
• Durable traction sole with an aggressive tread pattern
• Solid back at the heel that holds the fin straps in place, preventing bootie damage

What We Don’t Like

• Stiffer than other scuba boots during first uses

7.  O’Neill Heat Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best for a Snug Fit

O’Neill’s Heat Boots are suitable for warmer temperatures. The 3mm boot is like no other in the market, boasting an innovative yet comfortable design. Donning may be slightly tricky, but you’ll find a reliable solution in these boots. Plus, they offer protection and performance in demanding environments thanks to their features.

What You Need to Know

The O’Neill Heat Boots feature a durable outsole with a round-toe shape design. And they have interior taped and exterior seams that are glued and blind stitched, enhancing durability. 

A FluidFlex design on the interior and exterior ensures flexibility and comfort. While an anti-flush shin strap adds warmth and a heel pull provides easy donning and doffing. 

Specs & Features

• Price: $59.95
• Material: Nylon 2 Neoprene Rubber
• Thickness: 3mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Exterior: Glued & Blind Stitched; Interior: Taped
• Closure: Anti-Flush Shin Strap

What We Like

• Interior and exterior FluidFlex design for comfort and flexibility
• Glued and blind stitched interior taped seams and exterior seams
• Forefoot lower strap to tighten boot around your lower shin

What We Don’t Like

• May be challenging to put on

8.  Scubapro Delta 5 Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best 5mm Scuba Boots

Scubapro’s Delta 5 Boots are the best 5mm scuba boots. They offer a blend of quality, comfort, and style, featuring a soft rubber sole and a sturdy outsole with rubberized armor. Therefore, they are ideal for divers looking for comfortable and practical scuba boots that offer some protection in diverse diving environments.

What You Need to Know

The Scubapro Delta 5 Boots are crafted from nylon-2 neoprene rubber with glue and sewn seams. They have a soft sole and a sturdy outsole with rubberized armor for top and bottom protection. 

Furthermore, the dive boots are cushioned at the top of the foot and safeguarded against fin pocket abrasion. They also have built-in arch support. As a result, you can stand comfortably on rocky shorelines. 

Reinforced toe and heel caps extend the boot’s lifespan, with a molded fin strap keeper in the heel cap. The long zipper facilitates easy donning and doffing and includes a gusset to minimize water seepage.

Specs & Features

• Price: $86.00
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber
• Thickness: 5mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: Zipper w/Hook & Loop Patch

What We Like

• Reinforced toe and heel caps
• Aggressive anti-slip tread that is non-marking
• Hook and loop zipper end patch that secures the side zipper when closed
• Built-in arch support

What We Don’t Like

• Only available in whole sizes, which may not be ideal for divers with half-sized feet

9.  Aqualung Echozip Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best for Versatility

The Aqualung Echozip Boots offer a comprehensive solution for divers seeking reliable, versatile footwear. Warmth and comfort are the ethos of these boots. And they’re tailored for varying water temperatures and challenging terrains, ensuring functionality and diver comfort. Although they have some minor design flaws, they’re worth the investment.

What You Need to Know

The Aqualung Echozip Boots are constructed with a warm 7mm nylon-2 neoprene. Therefore, they strike a balance between insulation and flexibility. 

Aqualung boots are notorious for their ergonomic design incorporating the patented ERGO shaped footbed and outsole, which the Echozip boots have. This anatomically correct design prevents excess water retention and provides comfortable support. 

The thick treaded sole protects against punctures, stings, and slips, ensuring safety during underwater activities. Also, with a few glued and sewn seams strategically placed away from the widest parts of the feet, chafing is minimized. Therefore, overall comfort is enhanced.

Furthermore, the boots have a heavy-duty, non-corrosive #10 YKK toothed zipper. That feature is complemented by a water entry barrier behind the zipper for added warmth. And a hook and loop zipper retaining tab that prevents zipper slippage.

Specs & Features

• Price: $65.00
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber
• Thickness: 3mm/5mm/7mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: #10 YKK Toothed Zipper; Locking Hook & Loop Tab

What We Like

• Extremely flexible
• Easy donning and doffing
• Great value for money
• Suitable for cold water diving

What We Don’t Like

• Uncomfortable pressure on the foot caused by the front patch
• Heavy use can cause the zip to break

10.       Henderson Sole Gripper Boot

Our Expert Opinion: Best for Years of Reliable Service

The Henderson Molded Sole Unisex Boot are among the best boots for scuba diving because of their stable platform. They ensure easy and safe navigation on beaches, docks, and dive boats. Plus, they are crafted with heavy-duty zippers, vulcanized rubber heels, and toecaps, and glued and sewn seams for durability. 

What You Need to Know

The Henderson Molded Sole Boots are a unisex choice for divers. The 5mm nylon-2 neoprene boots have glued and sewn seams, ensuring strength and durability. And the robust construction includes vulcanized rubber heels and toecaps, enhancing longevity in high-wear areas.

Moreover, the boots boast heavy-duty zippers that ensure years of reliable use. And you can rest assured that they won’t be waterlogged thanks to Henderson’s Water Entry Barrier (WEB) design behind the zipper.

In addition, they feature a hook and loop fastener that keeps the zipper secure in the full-up position during finning. 

Specs & Features

• Price: $75.99
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene
• Thickness: 5mm
• Type of sole: Hard
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: Zipper w/Hook & Loop Slide Retainer

What We Like

• Heavy-duty zippers that reduce water transfer
• Suitable for various terrains thanks to the stable platform sole
• Water entry barrier (WEB) design behind the zipper for extra warmth and protection

What We Don’t Like

• Heavier than other scuba diving boots

11.       Cressi Minorca Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best Budget Boots for Warm Water Diving

The Cressi Minorca boots are ideal for warm water diving in places like the Caribbean. They feature a robust rubber sole that ensures durability and are soft enough for any water sport. Plus, they’re available in a high or low cut with an ergonomic and comfortable design. 

What You Need to Know

Cressi’s Minorca Boots are crafted from super elastic and ultra-durable nylon-2 neoprene rubber. They also have glued and sewn seams for increased robustness, ensuring reliable diving comfort over multiple seasons. 

A reinforced rubber heel and toe cap in areas prone to wear enhances overall strength. While putting on and taking off the boots is simplified thanks to the zipper closure.

Specs & Features

• Price: $42.50
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber
• Thickness: 3mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: Zipper

What We Like

• Option to choose between high and low cut
• Easy donning and doffing
• Sleek design 
• Snug, comfortable fit

What We Don’t Like

• Not the thickest sole; only 3mm available

12.       Mares Classic Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best Classic Scuba Diving Boots

The Mares 5mm Classic Zipper Dive Boots are an excellent choice for any diver. These classic and timeless boots boast a time-tested design, offering all you’d want in a dive boot. While the soles could be thicker and the zippers sturdier, they perform well underwater.

What You Need to Know

The Mares 5mm Classic Zipper Dive Boot is constructed from a combination of 5mm standard nylon and neoprene. It also features robust glued and sewn seams for durability.

The boots are designed with flexible vulcanized rubber soles, and they prioritize comfort during dives. Also, the unique cut enhances the fit while reducing water entry. That way, your feet stay warmer throughout the dive. 

Moreover, a zippered entry ensures easy putting on and removing of the boots. Therefore, your overall diving experience will be more convenient. 

Specs & Features

• Price: $59.95
• Material: Nylon-2 Neoprene Rubber
• Thickness: 5mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Glued and sewn
• Closure: Zipper

What We Like

• Great value for money
• Simplified donning and doffing
• Lightweight 
• Flexible vulcanized rubber sole

What We Don’t Like

• Don’t have the thickest soles
• Zipper may weaken after prolonged use

13.       Akona Standard Boots

Our Expert Opinion: Best Lightweight Scuba Diving Boots 

The Akona Standard Boots combine comfort, stability, and confidence for divers before, during, and after their dives. These 6.5mm scuba boots are lightweight yet boast a durable construction. And they prioritize a snug fit, ensuring comfort and warmth.

What You Need to Know

Akona’s Standard Boots are constructed from nylon 2 neoprene, offering enhanced water resistance through glued and blind stitched seams. The sole has a spike-like rubber design and is 30% thicker than standard vulcanized rubber soles. 

As a result, expect superior grip on various surfaces, including boat decks, docks, sidewalks, and floors. And the innovative sole reduces hydroplaning and instills confidence during all diving stages.

The sole has a slip-resistant layer that wraps around the boot, delivering additional support on rugged surfaces. Additionally, they feature a YKK #5 self-locking zipper with corrosion resistance. And a longer pull-tab on the heel makes it easy to put them on.

Specs & Features

• Price: $81.00
• Material: Nylon 2 Neoprene
• Thickness: 6.5mm
• Type of sole: Soft
• Seams: Glued and blind stitched
• Closure: YKK #5 Self-Locking Zipper

What We Like

• Rubber cap on toes and heels
• Soles are thicker than standard vulcanized rubber soles
• YKK #5 self-locking zipper
• Snug fit

What We Don’t Like

• Water seepage may occur

How to Choose the Best Scuba Boots for Open-Heel Fins

Various factors play a crucial role when choosing the best boots for scuba diving. These include water temperature, materials, design, and fit. 

Materials

Neoprene and rubber are the primary materials used in dive boot construction, offering warmth and durability. Neoprene, available in varying thicknesses like 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm, provides flexibility akin to wetsuits. Rubber is commonly used for soles and ensures durability and grip.

Thickness

The thickness of dive boots ranges from 2mm to 7mm. Depending on the water temperature you plan to dive in, you’ll need an appropriate thickness. Here’s a guide to help you choose:

Water Temperature	Recommended Thickness	Suitable Dive Boots
10°C / 50°F to 18°C / 64°F – Cold waters	6.5mm or 7mm	Cressi Isla & Aqualung Echozip
16°C / 60°F to 24°C / 75°F – Temperate waters	5mm	Scubapro Delta 5 & Akona Standard
Above 24°C / 75°F	1 to 3mm	Cressi Minorca & O’Neill Heat

Zippered/Non-Zippered

The choice between zippered and non-zippered boots depends on convenience and durability. Zippered boots are easy to put on and take off. However, you may face zipper issues. Therefore, selecting a sturdy zipper is crucial.

Size & Fit

Proper fit is essential. As a result, ensure the boots are snug without restricting blood flow. If you can, try on the boots first before making a purchase. 

Alternatively, consult the sizing chart to find the right fit when buying diving booties online. Note that with dive boots, it’s recommended to consider your sock size rather than shoe size. 

Also, the boot cut should match the type of diving. Low-cut or mid-height boots are ideal for open-heel fins.

Sole Type

Dive boots have different sole types for varying conditions. Boots for colder conditions and harsh surfaces have stiff soles for maximum protection. Some examples include Mares Trilastic and Seac Pro HD. 

Those for warmer temperatures and softer surfaces, like sand, come with soft soles for enhanced comfort. The Scubapro Delta Short Boots and Mares Classic Boots incorporate this sole type.

Conclusion

Dive boots are an essential addition to any diver’s gear. They protect your feet from sharp objects and insulate from colder water temperatures. Comfort while diving and traction when walking on slippery surfaces are other benefits.The best boots for scuba diving have an appropriate thickness for the water temperature of your desired dive location. When choosing between the various options, also consider the sole type, size and fit, and whether they have a zipper or not.