I don't engage in the footware fight anymore.  The $250 Irish Setters got just as wet & ruined as the hi-tech canvas crap (and just as fast too).  I keep a pair of cozy boots, forget the brand or price I paid, to compliment my cotton socks for when I want dry feet at night around the fire.  I portage in teva's, canoe barefoot.  The tan lines from the teva's get chicks to notice my rugged feet.  I love to show the scar and tell the story of how I had to give myself stitches on my right instep from that midnight portage in the rain.  Best day ever!

Prior to my days of being so podiatricly conscious, canvas Chuck Taylors served all purposes.  They probably still do.