Let’s get one thing straight: fashion suicide is not mandatory when you’re packing for your next beach adventure. Yes, water shoes are functional—but no, they are not made to be worn from sunrise mimosa to midnight bonfire. That’s how you earn yourself a solid collection of blisters and the walking posture of a defeated cowboy.

Despite their sad aesthetic, water shoes do have their place in the world—namely, in actual water. Think rocky beaches, tide pools, coral reefs, or a full-on whale shark snorkeling trip in La Paz (which, by the way, you should absolutely do—read about it here). In these situations, protecting your feet from shards of glass, barnacle-covered rocks, and nature’s other tiny death traps is a no-brainer.

But let’s be honest: the moment you try to wear them all day like they’re real shoes? Tragedy. They have the cushioning of a cookie sheet, and by lunchtime, you’ll be reconsidering every life choice that led to this moment.

And before you get defensive in the comments—yes, some brands do look better now. Some people even swear by their Astrals, Keens, or Merrells for all-day comfort. Others wear them to bars, clubs, and brunch. You do you. Just know that unless you’re actively engaging in aquatic heroics or dodging beach glass, there are better ways to look good and feel great.

Ultimately, it’s about knowing your terrain and packing with a little self-respect (and maybe an extra pair of slides for the resort, for the love of blistered feet). Whether you’re climbing waterfalls or swimming with majestic sea creatures off the Baja coast with Ventana Travel, just remember: functionality is sexy… but only to a point.