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Chuck Taylor High Tops as Dive Shoes Review

Last updated: July 2025

High Tops

  • Fits fins: Works with standard fin pockets without modification
  • Gravel grip: Sturdy sole handles rocky entries
  • No trim issues: Doesn’t affect kicking or balance
  • Sand intrusion: Grains can rub painfully inside
  • No insulation: Not intended for cold water use
Overall Score: 6.2 / 10 (Acceptable)

Learn more about our scoring system

I’ve used a pair of classic Chuck Taylor High Tops as dive shoes for over 25 dives, mostly in moderate to warm freshwater quarries. While they aren’t made for diving, they’ve proven to be surprisingly functional with wetsuits. I use them because they look cool, and they’re my go-to footwear for local fun dives when thermal protection or extra grip isn’t needed.

Pros & Cons

ProsCons
Fit standard fins without modificationSand can enter and cause discomfort
Better than booties on gravel or rockSlightly worse grip on wet decks
No trim or kicking issuesNo insulation for cold water
Stylish and fun for casual divesNot intended for water so use is unofficial
Proven durable after 25+ dives

Why I Chose Chuck Taylor High Tops

Honestly, I picked them because they looked cool. I didn’t want to wear boring dive boots for every quarry dive, and I figured I’d try something unconventional. They turned out to be ideal for warm water dives where insulation and heavy traction weren’t necessary.


Verdict

Chuck Taylors are a fun and functional alternative for recreational wetsuit diving in the right conditions. They’ve earned a spot in my gear kit for casual quarry days. I wouldn’t use them for rough shore entries or cold water. But for easy dives, they’re reliable and entertaining.

Would I buy it again? Maybe...I like the wimsy


Who Chuck Taylor High Tops Is Best For

This item is best suited for:

It may not be ideal for:


Deep Dive into the Score

Scoring System: Each category is scored out of 10 and weighted by importance. This model is used consistently across all gear reviews for transparency.

Category Score Raw Score Weight Weighted
Function & Performance Fair 6.0 30% 1.80
Ease of Use Good 7.0 20% 1.40
Versatility Weak 5.0 15% 0.75
Durability & Build Quality Good 7.0 15% 1.05
Value Strong 8.0 10% 0.80
Brand Trust & Transparency Weak 4.0 10% 0.40
Total 6.20 / 10

Rounded Display Score: 6.2 / 10 — Acceptable

Deep Dive Score Explanations


Performance in the Water


Written by Tyler Allison • Last updated September 14, 2025