Best Boat Shoes For Men

Hailing from their humble beginnings back in 1935 when they were invented by sailor and outdoorsman Paul Sperry, boat shoes have been a fixture of the man’s summer wardrobe ever since.

Their style coupled with functionality makes them among one of the best summer shoes that any man with a sense of style can own.  While not succumbing to the extremely casual sense of flip flops or sandals – although they have their place, boat shoes are a perfect addition to any man’s ensemble when looking to carry themselves well during the long and hot summer days.

Being able to be paired perfectly with a pair of chinos, shorts, or chambray shirts, boat shoes are a go-to classic for men looking to have the grip of a sneaker while enjoying a good inflow of air through their many grommets and often mesh and leather construction.

Since you are buying new boat shoes, consider getting a pair of no-show socks to go with them. We recently reviewed the USA-made No-Show Socks by Boardroom Socks that we think you’ll love.

The Best Boat Shoes For Men

1. Best Overall: Sperry’s Top-Sider Men’s Boat Shoe

A good-quality boat shoe doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. In fact, some of the best boat shoes on the market are incredibly comfortable as well as functional for casual wear.

These shoes come in a wide variety of colors with anti-slip soles so you don’t lose your footing while on wet, slippery surfaces. The non-marking rubber soles ensure that you aren’t going to scuff your boat deck.

The moccasin trim pulls together the classic boat styled shoe, with the leather body able to stretch and conform to the unique shape of your foot over time.

The EVA sole is shock-absorbing, which is perfect for rough weather, or if you are especially hard on your shoes. Wearing them in does take some time, depending on what method is used.

From box to break-in, the expected time according to buyers is anywhere from 12 hours to a couple of weeks. They are styled in such a way that these shoes are ideal for men with wide feet. They come in sizes from US 8 to US 16, and have regular, wide, and extra-wide options in some sizes.

There are options for almost every man’s particular tastes and style.

2. Most Comfortable: Allbirds Men’s Tree Skippers Boat Shoe

Key Features:

• Mesh upper allows for best-in-class breathability
• Made from sustainably sourced renewable materials
• Machine washable

Summary:

The Allbrids Men’s Tree Skippers redefines what a boat shoe can be.  While the mesh upper is its most striking feature, there are design details throughout the shoe that set this above the rest in the field when it comes to comfort.

• Mesh upper is made from a silky-soft eucalyptus tree fiber

While wearing trees for shoes is likely not what you had in mind when browsing the selection.  Allbirds has crafted these shoes in such a way that the fabric feels smooth as silk.  So whether you decide to wear these shoes barefoot or with a pair of no-show socks, you will love how they feel against your skin.

Unlike other boat shoes that rely on a leather wrap around the shoe, the commitment to mesh throughout allows for unmatched breathability.  Not only does this allow the shoes to dry quickly should they ever become wet, but it also prevents sweat and odor buildup as well.  

• The minimalist style will work for just about any setting

Whether you are attending the boss’ pool party or going to the beach with your friends, the style of these boat shoes is extremely versatile.  The simple two-tone design can be dressed up or down accordingly.  This helps to condense how many shoes you need to own in your wardrobe.

• Moisture-wicking and odor-reducing insole allows you to wear these without socks

Thanks to the reliance on the naturally moisture-wicking merino wool and castor bean oil insole, Allbirds created an insole that will draw moisture away from your feet.  This helps to cut foot odor considerably on the bottom of your feet and will be helpful in reducing blisters.

• Machine washable so they always look and feel their best

Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of these boat shoes is that they are machine washable.  Simply remove the laces and insole (you can hand wash if you want), and toss these in the washer.  Once washed and air dried, the natural fibers will soften and return to their original shape.  This can be a major selling point should you plan on wearing these boat shoes near saltwater or you simply have overly sweaty feet.

Other Important Features:

• The simple and clean design allows you to wear these casually 
• Allbirds offers a 30-days no question asked return policy
• Designed and manufactured to be carbon-neutral 
• 13 different color options available
• Available in sizes 8-14

Pros

• Mesh uppers are breathable and comfortable
• Moisture-wicking insoles provide ample cushion
• Able to be easily dressed up or down

Cons

• No wide sizes available

What You Need To Know

Thanks to their super soft mesh coupled with the naturally moisture-wicking insole, these will quickly become your favorite pair of shoes to wear all summer long.  Not only do they look good, but they are also one of the most comfortable boat shoes on the market.

3. Best for Fishing: Columbia Men Relaxed Boat & Fishing Shoe

Key Features:

• Waterproof fabric coupled with a breathable design
• Available in 7 different colors and a multitude of sizes
• Durable outsole provides grip on slick surfaces

Summary:

Whether you are fishing off the deck of a boat or on a secluded freshwater ravine, the Columbia Bahama Vent Boat and Fishing Shoe are a match made in heaven.  Here’s why we think this shoe will become a wardrobe staple while fishing:

• Versatile design is comfortable and vented

Unlike so many other water shoes that may cause blisters due to excessive rubbing on the skin, the Columbia Bahama Vent boat shoes are smartly designed to increase comfort and ventilation.  

Comfortable: From the canvas and full-grain leather construction on the uppers to the lightweight outsole, these shoes dry fast while keeping your feet dry and comfortable.  In addition, the interior mesh will wear nicely and feel nice against your feet.

Vented: If you slip in the water by accident or simply take a step in catching the fish into a net, the uppers are waterproof and can be good enough for shallow waters in low-wake rivers.

• Available in 7 different color options and massive size variety

Here are a few key points about the style and sizes available:

Stylish: Whether you are heading out on a fishing trip or are heading to the local beach bar afterward, these boat shoes won’t look like traditional clunky fishing shoes.  They can be easily dressed up for any occasion.  

Sizes: Columbia makes this shoe in sizes 7 to 17.  In addition, if you pick these up at a specialty retailer (i.e. Zappos), you can buy them in wide sizes (EE).

Other Important Features:

• Simple lacing system allows you to get a secure fit so they don’t slip off
• Omni-grip rubber sole provides great traction on all surfaces
• Open mesh insole increases ventilation

Pros

• Versatile fishing shoes that look great in a variety of settings
• Wide range of sizes and colors available
• Will keep your feet dry and comfortable whether fishing or walking
• Designed for anglers

Cons

• Some men may prefer a quick drying mesh rather than a waterproof material

What You Need To Know

If you go fishing regularly and don’t want to be stuck with the limited versatility of fishing boots or fishing sandals, then the Columbia Bahama Vent boat shoe is a great pick.  The grippy rubber sole provides a confident step whether you are on slick rocks or on boat decks.

4. Best for Sailing: Sperry Sea Kite Sport Moc Boat Shoe

Key Features:

• Secure and sporty fit make these the perfect shoes for boating and sailing
• Arch support and EVA footbed allows for all-day comfort
• Mesh uppers will dry quickly

Summary:

Whether you are going out on your personal boat or simply enjoying a bit of summertime fun with a close friend, family member, or colleague, performance-focused shoes for a boat is almost a necessity, especially if you will be called on to man the sails.  Here’s why men love these sailing shoes:

• Deck shoes that provide stability on the open water

Relying on Sperry’s proprietary Adaptive Wave-Siping outsole, the Sea Kite Sport Moc will disperse water under your foot so you can worry about the task at hand rather than if your shoe will slip out from underneath you.

• Quick-drying mesh uppers make for a comfortable fabric

Whether you take a quick step in the water, experience a sudden downpour of rain, or a wave crashes the deck of the boat, the mesh uppers coupled with the water-resistant leather are quick drying.

This means that your feet will get plenty of air in order to prevent blisters or odor from forming before it’s too late.

• EVA footbed increases durability and provides extra support

While a memory foam insole is great on casual boat shoes, when it comes to performance, an EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) footbed that is made from a rubber-like plastic will not rot or wear down easily.  The footbed on the Sea Kite Sport Moc provides both arch support and plenty of cushioning for all-day comfort.

Other Important Features:

• The Sperry Sea Kite Sport Moc is available in two colors
• Current size range is between 7 and 13 
• Wide sizes are available
• Mesh fabric lining on the inside will dry quickly and provide breathability 
• Mesh upper offers an adequate draining system 
• Moc toe style is good for casual to semi-casual settings (i.e. pool parties)

Pros

• Terrific deck shoe for all-day sailing
• Proprietary non-slip sole makes for a confident step
• Designed to dry quickly

Cons

• Limited color combinations

What You Need To Know

If you are looking for a pair of well-performing sailing shoes, then Sperry’s Sea Kite Sport Moc Boat Shoe is among the best.  Its versatile and sensible design makes them ideal for sailing.

5. Budget-Friendly: Dockers Men’s Beacon Boat Shoe

Key Features:

• A budget-friendly price that is easy on the wallet
• Hybrid vent and leather design is both stylish and functional
• Lightweight and comfortable to wear

Summary:

When it comes to budget-friendly men’s wear Dockers consistently hits a home run.  With the Beacon Boat Shoe, they did it again by expertly making compromises in both materials and design in order to make a shoe that many can afford.  Here are a few more details about the Beacon Boat Shoe that we wanted to share:

• A versatile shoe that should combat odors

What is nice about these boat shoes is that not only do they have a sophisticated leather upper but they are coupled with mesh around the lower half of the shoe.  

Rather than relying on small eyelets for ventilation like other boat shoes, the mesh netting will provide air to flow freely into the shoe in order to prevent your feet from sweating as well as odor buildup.  While we wouldn’t recommend going barefoot in these shoes as they aren’t washable, if you plan on only wearing them from your car to the beach with no socks, then it shouldn’t be a problem.

The footbed also has some antibacterial features that should also work to combat odors as well.

• Tie closure for a more secure fit

If you plan on walking heavily in these shoes, the front lace design provides extra security.  Rather than relying on 4 eyelets (common in the Sperry Top-Sider boat shoe), the Beacon Boat Shoe has 6 eyelets (3 on each side) which allow you to tie it snug against your foot.  

This secure fit can also help in preventing the shoe from sliding around while walking (which is the leading cause of blisters).

• Compromises in materials

Unlike other boat shoes that rely on a full-grain leather upper or a silky-smooth mesh, in order to make these shoes cheaper, Dockers relies on a genuine leather grade.  This means that the leather won’t be nearly as durable as other grades, nor will it develop a nice patina with time.

What does this mean for your wallet?  Realistically, you will likely need to replace these boat shoes in a year or two.  Don’t expect them to last much longer than that.

Other Important Features:

• Available in 6 neutral colors
• Great for all feet sizes with lengths ranging from 7-15 along with both medium and wide sizes available
• Water-resistant treated leather (NeverWet) repels water
• The outsole is lightweight and provides adequate grip

Pros

• Budget-friendly price point
• Stylish and functional design
• 6 eyelets allow for a more secure fit

Cons

• Made from genuine leather
• Won’t last as long as other boat shoes reviewed

What You Need To Know

If you have a tight budget but don’t want to compromise on style or resort to flip-flops, the Beacon Boat Shoe by Docker is a great alternative to the pricier options reviewed in this guide.  The versatile design also makes it easy to dress up or down.

6. Timberland Men’s Classic Two-Eyed Boat Shoe

The boat shoe is a classic style of shoe designed for the wetter surfaces of a dock or a boat.

Timberland is a very popular shoe manufacturer, and their boat shoes are no exception to that quality. They feature a comfortable synthetic sole and a strong moccasin toe to withstand regular wear and tear on the boat.

They are outfitted with a foam EVA insert, which adds comfort and support while wearing. The shoe material is real, genuine leather to be able to stand up to the harsher elements of boating.

As casual shoes, they are comfortable, but they aren’t supposed to be worn with regular socks.

Wearing this shoe takes some familiarity, as many people will try to wear them with regular cotton socks. While you can do this, you would have to order a half size up to be able to fit your foot in.

Many men say that these shoes run small, but they are closer to true size if you wear them without socks.

They do eventually conform to the size of your foot, as the leather material is made to stretch and warp as you continue to wear these shoes. Overall, they are of good quality, the only sticking point is finding the right size for you.

Sizes range from a size 6 (US) to a size 15 (US), with half sizes in between.

7. Sebago Docksides Boat Shoe

Docksides boat shoes are a great quality boat shoe if you are looking for something simple but comfortable. These shoes are made with 100% genuine leather and are very easy to break in within the first few wears.

They have a nice, thick sole that adds structure and support to the foot, while also being anti-slip and non-marking. These shoes are incredibly affordable, but also very durable where it counts.

Other shoes of a similar price range have a tendency to fall apart after the first few wears, but no such defect has been reported for these Sabago Docksides.

As for fit, they may run large, or they may fit true to size.

The manufacturer says they do fit true to your regular size, but there are buyers that say they run a little larger. If they are a little small, remember that these are genuine leather shoes and will stretch and warp to fit your foot while you wear them.

Because they are leather, they aren’t made to breathe, which will result in some odor over time. These shoes are also fitted with non-corrosive eyelets and rawhide laces both for looks and durability; these shoes are made to last.

8. Eastland Yarmouth 1955 Boat Shoe

Class, style, elegance, and a call to casual design that many boat shoes try to exhibit.

These Eastland shoes are the most typical boat shoe you could own, and yet, they are also one of the most classic shoes out there. They feature tan or deep brown leather exterior options and a thick black sole.

Wear them with jeans, khakis, chinos, or shorts; they are versatile and go with virtually anything. Designed for the outdoors, these shoes will carry you through your day comfortably.

That being said, they run either true to size or a little smaller, so it would be wise to pick up the next half size from what you usually wear. These shoes come in US sizes 8-13, with half-sizes up to size 11.5.

Overall, they are of exceptional quality, but the first few wears are bound to be uncomfortable as you start to wear them in. Because they are leather, it may take some time, but they will inevitably last for a good while.

Plus, they will mold to your feet and your walking pattern over time, which in turn will make them more comfortable the more you wear them. Wearing socks will of course help to reduce blisters and expedite the breaking-in process.

9. Quoddy Downeast Leather Boat Shoes

Shoes made from leather are fantastic because they fit you even if they were initially a little small.

Leather is designed to stretch and warp when you use them, resulting in a custom fit that you can only get over time. Quoddy Downeast boat shoes are made of supple leather that does exactly this and results in a higher quality shoe overall.

The navy color with the white stitching and soles imparts a very classical look that works with many seaside outfits, such as khakis and shorts, but you can also wear them with jeans as a casual everyday shoe.

Boat shoes such as this are not designed to be worn with socks because they are meant to wrap around your foot naturally. The leather-lined interior helps with this process, though if you are worried about blisters, there are specially designed socks for boating shoes. These lace-up shoes fit true to size but are only available in full sizes from a US 7-13.

If you fall in the half-size range, it is recommended that you go up to the next full size for the best fit.

Other than that, they look like any classic boating shoe should, and are designed with the elements in mind.

4 Tips for Finding the Perfect Pair of Boat Shoes

1. Materials

The material of your boat shoe is important.  Not only can the material impact durability, but it can also subtly demonstrate your sense of style.  Here’s a look at all the most popular types of materials used for boat shoes and how they differ from one another:

• Leather: As you may be already aware, leather comes in many different grades.  If possible, go with boat shoes that are either full-grain or top-grain leather.  This leather grade will last for several years and will develop a beautiful patina with time.  Avoid genuine leather at all costs.  Genuine leather is from the underside of the cowhide and will crack and deteriorate within a year or two.
• Canvas: Canvas, or cotton, is a lightweight, breathable, and durable material.  While canvas is typically paired with comfort or vintage-looking boat shoes, it is also inexpensive – making it a preferred pick for budget-focused men.  The breathable nature of this material should help with smelly feet and moisture management as well.
• Artificial: Manufactured fibers such as nylon, rubber, polyester, and more provide some unique advantages. For example, nylon boat shoes can also act as water shoes – making them great for beach and fishing wear.  Furthermore, synthetic materials are often much more durable – allowing them to look great for years. 

2. Style

Depending on how you intend to wear your boat shoes will determine the right style for you – here’s a look at the most popular boat shoe styles for men:

• Casual: Your quintessential casual boat shoe expertly strikes a balance between style and comfort.  Whether you are attending a summer party or want to bring a bit more sophistication to your summer wardrobe, a boat shoe made from a leather upper and a thinner outsole makes for a great pick.
• Comfort: With a thicker insole footbed coupled with a cushioned outsole, comfort-focused boat shoes are great for daily wear.  Typically made from canvas uppers, they can be worn with different outfits and in various casual settings. 
• Athletic: While boat shoes and athletic wear may sound like complete opposites to many, there are moments where they may make sense.  Athletic boat shoes are best for fishing or for wet or slick settings – especially if you work on a boat and need to make a quick jump from the dock to the bow.  Nearly always containing highly breathable uppers coupled with an anti-slip outsole, these boat shoes provide extra confidence with each step.
• Outdoor: Boat shoes intended for outdoor wear will often contain drainage along with anti-slip outsoles.  Furthermore, outdoor boat shoes may contain more secure lacing to ensure that your foot remains in place when walking over long distances.

3. Color / Pattern

Whether it’s dark brown or light khaki color, you will find that most boat shoes are available in neutral colors.  If undecided, go with dark brown for your first pair.  It not only can be worn with shorts but also a variety of chinos and denim as well.  

4. Extra Features

Here are some other features that are worth considering:

• Non-Marking Sole: These soles are typically made from non-black soles and are a bit softer so they won’t leave marks on boats when worn.  Some companies such as Sperry offer proprietary and tested outsoles.
• Water Resistant: While boat shoes aren’t intended to be worn in the water, they may inevitably get wet.  Water-resistant boat shoes have been chemically treated to limit the damage that fresh and saltwater may do to the materials such as leather, canvas, etc. after prolonged exposure.
• Slip Resistant: When wearing boat shoes to the marina or a beach, slippery docks can be a hazard.  Slip-resistant boat shoes have outsoles that are gummy and provide added stability to each step.
• Waterproof: If heading to a rocky beach or you plan on wearing your boat shoes while fishing, waterproof boat shoes will continue to look great even after full submersion in water.  Furthermore, some waterproof boat shoes will prevent water from entering the shoe – which can be great if you plan on wearing these in shallow depths.
• Antimicrobial: Boat shoes are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.  During the humid and warm summer months, smelly feet can become an issue.  If this is a common problem for you, then antimicrobial boat shoes may limit this embarrassing issue.
• Orthopedic: An orthopedic boat shoe is perfect for men who are looking for increased comfort by using thicker foam inserts.  It is worth noting that some companies make diabetic boat shoes, which have a deeper heel.

Can You Get Boat Shoes Wet?

One of the most common questions that men have when it comes to boat shoes is whether or not they can get them wet.

After all, they are called boat shoes right?!

Well, generally speaking, it’s ok if boat shoes get wet.  By this we mean, if there is some water (salt or fresh) splashed on the leather upper itself, it’s likely not going to be a big problem.

There are even some guides online that go so far as instructing men to purposefully get them wet in order to break them in fully.

From our experience, and from what we gathered in our research, it’s best to leave boat shoes dry on land.

It’s not necessarily that they can’t get wet, it’s more so that they shouldn’t.

Even if the leather on the shoe has been treated to resist water, the coating will eventually crack and break down if it’s constantly going through wet and dry environments.

Therefore, if you are looking for a pair of shoes that you can wear in the water, we would recommend water shoes or even sandals (if you want to retain more of a casual look).