Known for their moccasin-style silhouette and nonslip soles, boat shoes were originally designed to keep feet sturdy on boats. But now, the shoes have gone beyond the sea to city streets. In addition to preppy styles, there is a range of fresh, colorful takes that can offer a slightly more laid-back touch to any wardrobe. Below, consider this your ultimate guide to the best boat shoes out now — from traditional options made for deck safety to more inconspicuous everyday looks perfect for brunch or even weddings where dress shoes aren’t required. Not only are they polished, but they’re also equipped with cushioning for optimal comfort. Read on to shop them all.
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1. Sperry Billfish 3-Eye Boat Shoe
This preppy style feature a full-grain leather upper with structural overlays and a 360-degree lacing system. It’s offered in a myriad of colorways and ais available in regular, wide, and extra-wide sizes, too.
Pros: These shoes have padded insoles and fetaures mesh panels made to let your feet breathe. A Wave-Siping poutsole design allows for ultimate traction on both wet and dry surfaces. They also feature rust-proof eyelets and a cushioned tongue optimal comfort.
Cons: These shoes tend to run on the narrower and smaller side, so you might want to purchase a half size larger if you’re in-between sizes or have wider feet.
2. Cole Haan Nantucket II Loafer
Another mixed media style, this breezy slip-on features subtle overlays and contrast whipstitch detailing.
Pros: They come in various colorways and can be purchased with leather, suede or canvas uppers.
Cons: These loafers can take a few wears to fully break-in.
3. Timberland Piper Cove Boat Shoe
From the brand who specializes in tough (and stylish) work boot options, these Timberland boat shoes are made with full-grain lather and feature lugged rubber outsole for superb traction and durability.
Pros: The outsole is also partially made of recycled rubber for an eco-friendly touch. An anti-fatigue footbed helps keep you comfortable for hours. These shoes are available in four neutral colorways and offered in both regular and wide width sizes.
Cons: They tend to run on the larger side, so make sure to size down if you have narrower feet.
4. Hey Dude Wally Sox Loafers
If you’re looking for an animal-friendly pick, these knit boat shoes are a great option. They’re super lightweight and comfortable, not to mention machine washable for easy maintenance.
Pros: They feature lace-up front detailing and are available in various colors, from neutrals to bright hues. The included memory foam insoles are removable.
Cons: They tend to run on the smaller side, so make sure to size up unless you have narrower feet.
5. Dockers Vargas Leather Boat Shoe
Dockers’ 2-eyelet boat shoes are crafted from 100% genuine leather with EVA cushioned footbed sand treaded rubber sole.
Pros: They’re available in various earth-toned colorways.
Cons: These shoes tend to run on the smaller size, so you likely will want to order a half size up from your normal shoe size.
6. Margaritaville Dock Slip On Boat Shoe
Classic details like 360-degree laces and contrast whipstitching adorn this effortlessly casual option. We love that the laces are done in leather for a slightly sophisticated touch.
Pros: Because these shoes are made out of plant-based fibers, these shoes are less stiff than their leather counterparts, making them more comfortable to wear without socks. They also feature a removable insole and are available in seven colorways to choose from.
Cons: These shoes might not be suitable for formal or most evening occasions.
7. Skechers Expected Availlo Slip-On Loafer
These loafers feature a slip-on silhouette and are crafted from 100% canvas with an approximate one-inch heel.
Pros: The shoes have padded collars, cushioned memory foam footbeds, and are available in regular, wide, and extra-wide sizes.
Cons: These loafers tend to run on the larger side.
