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Buyer’s guide to men’s boat shoes

A pair of stylish men's boat shoes
Sperry

Why buy a pair of men’s boat shoes?

Boat shoes are classified as low shoes with grippy soles. These are stylish, ultra-comfortable shoes that transition well between casual and professional situations. You can wear your boat shoes with a pair of khakis and a button up to work, or you can pair them with shorts and a v-neck on the beach.

What to look for in a pair of men’s boat shoes?

  • Materials: Men’s boat shoes are typically made from leather, canvas, and synthetic fibers, often with rubber soles. Rubber soles provide the slip resistance that boat shoes are known for, allowing them to be worn on a boat if desired. Leather or faux leather boat shoes are the classic style and suit more outfits or occasions.
  • Comfort: Make sure the pair you buy fits you comfortably. Look for breathable shoes that don’t rub your feet too much.

Should socks be worn with boat shoes?

Wearing socks with your boat shoes will ultimately come down to personal preference. Many are designed to be worn without socks. However, if your feet tend to sweat a lot, you may still want to wear a pair of no-show socks. Also, if you’re still breaking in your new shoes, you can wear socks to help you adjust.

Our picks for the best boat shoes for men

Better leather look

Benefits: These leather boat shoes are incredibly stylish and elegant. They are comfortable and versatile since they can be worn with nice pants or with shorts. Their rubber soles provide optimal grip.

The inconvenients: These shoes can take a while to break in. Sometimes they squeak when you walk.

Conclusion: These boat shoes have a simple, classic look that makes them ideal for work or Sunday brunch. If you want a great pair of boat shoes, check out these.

The best value for money

Benefits: These vintage canvas boat shoes feature a low-top slip-on design, making them incredibly practical and comfortable to wear. They have enough cushioning on the soles, so you can wear them all day. They also have a high elastic latex material that is impact resistant and gives your feet extra protection.

The inconvenients: These shoes have a somewhat narrow fit, which makes them less comfortable for people with wider feet.

Conclusion: These men’s boat shoes are ideal for casual outfits. They are flexible, comfortable and available in several colors.

Best Classic Look

Benefits: These ultra-lightweight boat shoes from Sperry are 100% leather with breathable mesh fabric on the sides to promote good air circulation. The rubber soles and protective suction cups in the heels of the shoes also have incredible shock absorbing properties. The leather is stain and water resistant for your convenience, and they come in multiple colors.

The inconvenients: While you can use this pair of boat shoes as a viable everyday option, concrete surfaces will take a major toll on them.

Conclusion: These high-end, handcrafted shoes from Sperry are the classic choice for boat shoes. They are easy to wear and feature a timeless design that will stay in style for years to come.

Top of the line

Benefits: These boat shoes are breathable, lightweight and non-slip. Their durable rubber soles provide fantastic traction wherever you walk. They also offer plenty of style for fashion lovers who want to diversify their wardrobe with their different color combinations.

The inconvenients: These shoes do not hold up well when exposed to moisture.

Conclusion: Columbia is one of the most trusted brands when it comes to pioneering new shoe technologies and setting trends. Their boat shoes are incredibly reliable: they give you comfort and breathability all day long.

Final Thoughts

Men’s boat shoes are fashionable and practical. Our suggestions can give you the comfort and style you want when you go out and soak up the sun.