Both aqua socks and water shoes provide protection for your feet in the water. Although the lines between the two have become more blurred recently, traditionally, the main difference is that water shoes have rubber soles to provide grip. Water socks or aqua socks also are frequently used by snorkelers and surfers in the water, while water shoes are more often used on the rocky shore. People are increasingly using water shoes for kayaking and boating. Also, some minimalist water shoes have much in common with aqua socks.