Looking for the best boat shoes to sail through summer with style and comfort? Look no further! We've rounded up the top boat shoe brands that will have you stepping onto the deck in ultimate fashion. Whether you're a man or a woman, on a tight budget or seeking the crème de la crème, we've got you covered. Get ready to walk on water as we dive into the world of the best boat shoes that will elevate your style and keep your feet happy all season long.
Florsheim Men's Atlantic Boat Shoes
These slip-on shoes have a moccasin-style toe and offer the same look as traditional loafers, but with the added comfort and lacing that you would expect from boat shoes. They feature cushiony OrthoLite high-rebound foam footbeds for ultimate comfort. The shoes are available in three colors, but the cognac brown version in heritage leather is particularly appealing.
One customer from Zappos commented, "These shoes are very comfortable and perfect for everyday walking, traveling, and walking. They are also stylish and provide a secure fit."
Marc Joseph New York Men's Bay Ave Boat Shoes
These Brazilian boat shoes are designed for function. They easily slip on and off and can handle any type of weather with their rubber outsoles and washed leather exteriors. The lace-up closure ensures a supportive fit that can be customized to your liking. They are available in three sleek colors that will elevate your travel outfits.
Rockport Men's Ports of Call Perth Boat Shoes
When it comes to versatility, leather boat shoes are the best choice. This particular version in brown leather can be dressed up or down effortlessly. Rockport's classic deck shoes have remained unchanged for the past 30 years and still offer the same slip-on construction for comfort. They feature enhanced sweat-wicking liners, padded collars and tongues, and steel shank arch reinforcements for superior midfoot support.
One satisfied shopper from Zappos said, "I have been wearing these shoes for six months now, it's my third pair in the last 10 years. These are the best boat shoes I've ever owned. They are incredibly comfortable, made with the best materials, and consistent in quality. These shoes can handle anything and always come out on top."
Sperry Authentic Original Men’s Boat Shoes
When it comes to classic boat shoes, it doesn't get better than Sperry. They invented the boat shoe back in 1934 and have perfected the design with handsewn accents, genuine leather construction, rawhide laces, and non-marking rubber soles. Whether you're spending a day on the water, exploring a new city, or running errands, these reliable and comfortable shoes are ready for anything.
One pleased customer from Zappos shared their experience, "I bought these for my husband for our trip to the Caribbean, and he absolutely loves the fit and comfort. You can never go wrong with Sperry, especially this particular style. They're the perfect summer shoes for his linen pants."
Sperry Men’s Gold Cup Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoes
These Gold Cup Sperrys take the classic boat shoe design to the next level. They feature luxurious lambskin linings and premium grain leather. Everything you love about Sperry boat shoes is present in this version, including deep cushioned heel cups, shock-absorbing foam midsoles, grippy rubber soles, and a customizable 360-degree lacing system.
"I love these shoes because they are stylish and perfect for passing through airport security," commented an Amazon buyer. "They fit true to size and have soft foamy insoles that provide great comfort."
Columbia Men’s Bahama Vent Loco Relax Boat Shoes
For a more casual take on boat shoes, the Columbia Bahama Vent Loco Relax Boat Shoes are the perfect choice. They have the comfort of running shoes with the durability of water shoes. These lightweight and highly breathable shoes can be worn from the beach to lunch and any other activity on your itinerary.
"I spend a lot of time standing on the deck of my bass boat fishing," explained one Amazon reviewer. "These shoes are great because they have a decent cushioned insole and provide excellent water drainage."
Mephisto Men's Trevis Boat Shoes
These French icon shoes look fantastic on a river boat cruising along the Seine, but they also feel great no matter where you wear them. Mephisto combines shock-absorbing technology with sleek, buttery leather exteriors to offer both comfort and style.
"These are the best-fitting shoes right out of the box," exclaimed one shopper from Zappos. "They feel like a pair of well-worn, comfortable shoes. The fit, style, and quality are top-notch."
Crocs Men’s Walu Slip-On Loafers
Although these slip-on loafers may not have the traditional lacing of boat shoes, they are a great addition to the topsider club. With their 360-degree elastic and moccasin-style toes, they provide both style and comfort. The shoes come with removable microfiber inserts and arch ventilation, ensuring that your feet stay comfy and dry all day long.
"They accompanied me on my vacation, and they are the most comfortable shoes I own," shared one Amazon reviewer. "Some waiters in European restaurants were even wearing them! They are lightweight and don't take up much space in my luggage, saving me on weight charges."
Reef Men’s Swellsole Pier Boat Shoes
Reef has taken all the features that customers love about boat shoes and added contoured memory foam cushioning with arch support. The result is an incredibly comfortable shoe that can be worn straight out of the box. These lightweight shoes also feature sturdy anti-slip rubber soles for stability on any surface.
"To start, these shoes fit as expected and feel great with the insole that comes with them," according to one satisfied Amazon reviewer. "They are incredibly lightweight, making them perfect for all-day wear. Plus, I've received plenty of compliments."
Best for Men: Columbia Dorado CVO PFG Shoe
Columbia offers a wide variety of boat shoes, but the Dorado CVO PFG shoe stands out among the rest. Part of Columbia's Performance Fishing Gear line, these shoes are specifically designed with fishing in mind. The soles feature Blood'n Guts technology, repelling blood, water, and dirt to keep your shoes stain-free. The stylish design resembles street shoes but is made from quick-drying material. These shoes are suitable for year-round wear and provide excellent grip with their razor siping design. They also offer impressive insole support, keeping your feet and back feeling strong even after a long day on the water.
Best Budget: Hey Dude Men’s Wally
Traditional boat shoes are known for being expensive, but Hey Dude has changed the game with their affordable Wally boat shoe. These shoes have a similar design to traditional boat shoes but utilize modern materials for comfort and affordability. The cloth-lined interior keeps your feet dry and comfortable, and the memory foam insole adds extra cushioning. The only downside is that the traction on wet surfaces may be slightly diminished. These shoes are best suited for pleasure boaters or casual sailors.
When choosing the best boat shoes, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, comfort is crucial, as boat shoes should provide support for your feet all day long. They should also be breathable to keep your feet dry and comfortable, especially when worn without socks. Additionally, it's essential to consider the waterproofness of the shoes. Some are fully waterproof, while others are designed to dry quickly. The type of sole is another vital aspect to consider, as boat shoes should provide traction on wet surfaces without marking them.
Best Overall: Grundens Sea Knit
Key Features
- Sizes: 8 to 13 Men’s
- Thick, EVA foam sole
- Seamless, nylon knit upper
- Non-marking sole
Why It Made The Cut
A unique appearance, exceptional shock absorption, and a stretchy upper make Grundens Sea Knit the top choice for boat shoes.
Pros
- Cool colors
- Comfortable footbed
- Quick drying
- Easy to take on/off
Cons
Product Description
When I unboxed Grundens Sea Knit boat shoes, I was amused by their bright blue color and thick black soles. They don't resemble typical boat shoes. However, once I wore them, they immediately became my new favorites. Beyond their eye-catching appearance, these shoes are designed for comfort. The seamless knit upper molds to my feet, providing excellent support. The material is highly breathable and dries quickly. What stands out the most is the thick EVA soles. As I navigate my boat, I appreciate the superior shock absorption they offer, protecting my back and legs. These shoes are so comfortable that I frequently wear them for everyday activities like grocery shopping or strolling with my family.
Best for Fishing: Huk Rogue Waves
Why It Made the Cut
A fully waterproof deck boot with non-slip capabilities that excel in all seasons and conditions.
Key Features
- Sizes: 7-14
- Colors: Grey, Blue, White, Mossy Oak Bottomland
- Sole Design: GripX Wet Traction
Pros
- 100% Waterproof
- Extremely comfortable
- Several color options
Cons
The Huk Rogue Waves are my go-to boat shoes for long days on the water. These slip-on deck boots offer plenty of support and are easy to take on and off. The thin neoprene lining keeps my feet dry and warm in cold weather. Even when submerged, these shoes keep my feet completely dry and provide excellent traction on wet decks. I've even used them for turkey hunting, and they performed surprisingly well. The only drawback is that they can be a bit warm on hot summer days.
Best for Women: Columbia PFG Tamiami Shoe
Why It Made the Cut
A sneaker-style boat shoe designed exclusively for women, featuring excellent ventilation and sticky soles.
Key Features
- Sizes: 5-12
- Colors: Titanium, Grey Ice, White
- Sole Design: Omni grip sole with razor siping
Pros
- Great ventilation
- Stain-resistant
- Comfortable insoles
Cons
When it comes to finding boat shoes specifically for women, options are limited. Fortunately, Columbia offers several choices, including the Tamiami shoe designed exclusively for women. These shoes feature the same qualities found in Columbia boat shoes, such as the Omni grip sole, Blood'n Guts stain resistance, and excellent ventilation. They are available in various feminine colors and a wide range of sizes, including half sizes. These shoes are designed to get wet and dry quickly. The drain ports in the sole efficiently remove water and promote air circulation for speedy drying. Even when worn without socks, these shoes are incredibly comfortable and ready for any adventure on or around the water.
Columbia Women's Slackwater Boat PFG Shoes
These canvas boat shoes are highly resistant to stains. They are protected with a water- and stain-resistant guard, ensuring they always look stylish. Like all Columbia footwear, they offer exceptional comfort with shock-absorbent cushioning and excellent traction.
Skechers Women's Performance On-The-Go Flex Linen Boat Shoes
The linen design of these performance boat shoes adds a touch of casual elegance to any outfit. Featuring air-cooled insoles, they keep your feet comfortable even in the heat of summer. With their responsive memory foam footbeds, these shoes provide impressive cushioning, support, and shock absorption to prevent pain and fatigue on long walks.
"These shoes can be walked in for miles," according to a Zappos reviewer. "They are lightweight, and you don't need to wear socks. It's a great alternative to sandals. They give you more support and keep your feet comfortable. I wear them all the time."
Hey Dude Women’s Wendy Chambray Loafers
These best-selling "loafers" are actually boat shoes in disguise. They possess all the features of quality boat shoes, including two eyelets, flexible rubber soles, moccasin toes, and soft liners. As a bonus, they can be folded in half for easy packing. With 15 versatile color options, you can find the perfect match for your favorite jeans, shorts, dresses, skirts, and more.
"I love these shoes," raved an Amazon customer. "They're very comfortable, lightweight, and easy to get on and off. I walked miles to the gates at Denver and Chicago without hurting my feet at all."
Skechers Performance On-The-Go Flex Canvas Boat Shoes
Skechers has managed to elevate the boat shoe with this navy and brown topsider. Its nautical theme is complemented by an anchor on the back, and the shoes are constructed with weatherproof canvas and leather. The On-The-Go Flex boat shoes live up to their name with their lightweight and flexible design that moves with your foot for all-day comfort. The lace-up design ensures optimal fit.
"I purchased these to use as legitimate boat shoes for sailing," said a Zappos customer in their review. "They are comfortable, non-skid, and stylish. The toe box is wide enough to be comfortable and not squish my toes."
Love a great deal? Sign up for our T L Recommends newsletter, and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
The Best Boat Shoes Brands
Velasca
Velasca Gambaree
Velasca Capelèe
Velasca, a direct-to-consumer brand, is dedicated to offering high-quality boat shoes at affordable prices. Each shoe is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans in Italy's shoemaking capital, Marche. Velasca provides various styles of boat shoes, including the Capelèe, a classic deck shoe made with premium materials that offers an elevated and timeless option for boat shoe enthusiasts. They also offer the Gambaree, which provides a slightly smarter look, and the Giulietta, which features a taller design that covers more of the ankle. Explore and shop the Velasca collection.
Kleman
Kleman Donato G VGT
Kleman Donato G VGT
Kleman is a French brand specializing in workwear-inspired footwear. Known for its quality craftsmanship, Kleman has satisfied customers ranging from public organizations like the French national railway, fire departments, and police forces to loyal civilians appreciating the brand's superior style and durability. The Donato G VGT is a sturdy and handmade option crafted in France, featuring a chunky commando sole for added traction and comfort. Discover the range of Kleman boat shoes.
Sperry
Sperry Topsider Authentic Original 2-Eye
Sperry Authentic Original 2-Eye
Sperry, the original boat shoe brand, offers the iconic Authentic Original deck shoe, which has remained virtually unchanged for nearly a century. This timeless classic continues to be one of the best sellers in the category, exemplifying the brand's commitment to quality and style. For those seeking a more modern twist, Sperry also provides contemporary variations, including rubber options with drainage holes for enhanced practicality on the deck. Discover the range of Sperry boat shoes at John Lewis.
Sebago
Sebago Dockside Portland Boat Shoes
Sebago Lace-Up Leather Boat Shoes
Sebago, another historic New England boat shoe brand, has been producing quality footwear since the 1940s. The Dockside, their best-selling style, is favored for its durability and flexibility despite requiring a slight break-in period. Customers appreciate Sebago for its commitment to both style and comfort. Explore their range of boat shoes, including the Dockside Portland Boat Shoes and Lace-Up Leather Boat Shoes. Shop now at Farfetch.
Quoddy
Quoddy Head Boat Shoe
Quoddy Head Boat Shoe
Founded in the 1940s in Maine, Quoddy is a renowned brand for producing high-quality moccasins and boat shoes. Their collection includes a variety of boat shoe styles available for immediate order or can be custom-made to your exact measurements. The Quoddy Head Boat Shoe is a classic choice, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and featuring a chunky sole for added support. Explore the Quoddy boat shoe collection.
Timberland
Timberland 3-Eye Classic Lug Shoe
Timberland 3-Eye Classic Lug Shoe
Timberland's 3-Eye Lug boat shoe is just as iconic as its original 6" boot. Loved by various subcultures, this preppy and slightly rugged shoe is versatile for both casual and smart-casual attire. Timberland also collaborated with Aimé Leon Dore, resulting in a reinvented silhouette by Teddy Santis. Explore the range of Timberland boat shoes at END.
Paraboot
Paraboot Malo Boat Shoe
Paraboot Lace-Up Leather Boat Shoes
French brand Paraboot is known for its range of high-quality footwear, including the iconic Michael Derby shoes. In addition to this style, Paraboot offers premium, handmade boat shoes that showcase exceptional craftsmanship. The Malo Boat Shoe, featuring a classic boat-shoe upper combined with a chunky sole, is a popular choice. Made in Spain using a Blake-stitched construction, this boat shoe offers easy resoling for long-lasting wear. Discover the Paraboot collection at END.
Ralph Lauren
Polo Ralph Lauren Ranger Deck Leather Boat Shoes
Ralph Lauren Merton Leather Boat Shoes
Ralph Lauren, the king of preppy style, offers a wide range of boat shoes that perfectly embody the brand's aesthetic. The Ranger Deck Leather Boat Shoes feature a heavy commando sole and thick leather uppers for a rugged yet polished look. The Merton Leather Boat Shoes, on the other hand, offer a classic flat-soled deck shoe design that is ideal for summer wear. Explore the Ralph Lauren boat shoe collection.
Visvim
Vivism Wallace Folk Deck Shoe
Vivism Hockney-Folk Suede Boat Shoes
Visvim, a Japanese label renowned for its unique blend of disheveled Americana chic, draws inspiration from workwear, military garments, and Native American designs. The range includes the Hockney, a boat shoe-inspired upper paired with a sneaker-like sole for a modern twist. The Wallace, reminiscent of Timberland's 3-Eye Lug, offers a chunkier design. Both styles showcase Visvim's commitment to craftsmanship and style. Explore the Visvim boat shoe collection at MR PORTER.
In conclusion, whether you're a man or woman searching for the perfect pair of boat shoes, you can't go wrong with these top brands. From the timeless styles of Sperry and Rockport to the athletic performance of Skechers and Under Armour, there's something for everyone. Whether you're hitting the deck or simply strolling along the shore, these boat shoes provide the ultimate combination of style, comfort, and durability. So why wait? Step into a pair of these top-rated boat shoes and experience the difference for yourself. Happy sailing!
