Boat shoes quick picks
Classic boat shoes for women: Sperry Women's Authentic Original Boat Shoes
Trendy boat shoes for women: Trotters Farah Boat Shoes
Slip-on boat shoes for women: Cole Haan Women's Nantucket Penny Loafers
Driver boat shoes for men: Riomar The Navy Waterman Shoes
Lightweight boat shoes for men: Sebago Monterey Boat Shoes
It couldn’t be more true that in fashion, everything old becomes new again. From ’90s trends like chokers to bell bottoms and even Italian charm bracelets (I just pulled mine out of my jewelry box from middle school!), styles of the past have been more popular than ever. One shoe trend that’s been making another round of waves lately? Boat and yacht shoes. And for good reason: They’re comfy, practical and perfect for summer.
According to Patrick Kenger, menswear stylist and founder of Pivot Image Consulting, “One of the reasons we’re seeing boat shoes trending again is because of the ‘old money’ aesthetic that has been popular for the last year or so,” he says. “Boat shoes are a staple item to get that Ivy League look.” He also says they’re a more elevated alternative to summer sandals — or sneakers — and that drivers and Venetian loafers are popular for similar reasons.
Linda Cui Zhang, women’s associate fashion director at Nordstrom, adds that “Miu Miu brought the boat shoe back,” thanks to the brand’s Spring 2024 runway show that displayed boat shoes in a variety of high-fashion looks.
What to look for in a boat shoe
“When choosing a boat shoe, you want something breathable since you’ll primarily be wearing it in warmer weather,” Kenger says. “I also prefer boat shoes that are water-resistant, as you’ll likely wear them near water at some point.” He also recommends buying shoes from brands that exclusively make footwear since they typically have a higher-quality product than those that also make clothing.
You generally have two materials to choose from when picking out boat shoes: canvas and leather. When it comes to the latter, Los Angeles-based celebrity fashion stylist Sarah Nearis says that the “quality of the leather, stitching [and] durability of the rubber sole and fit are very important.” This is especially true if you are wearing them on a boat for safety reasons; it’s not just as a fashion choice.
When it comes to fit, “You want a shoe that is snug but not tight,” Kenger says. “Keep in mind leather will stretch over time, so it’s best to have them fit snuggly when you first get them.”
Boat shoes for women
All our experts put Sperry's iconic boat shoe at the top of their list for its quality and versatility in your wardrobe. "The American brands that are rooted in this tradition are my first go-to resource: Sperry and Sebago," Zhang says. "They've been crafting boat shoes since the 1940s, and I appreciate the classic style and craftsmanship."
Our experts also raved about Sebago, another respected boat shoe maker. This pair comes in three styles, including a fun animal print.
If you're looking for a lace-free pair that's easy to slip on and off, Nearis suggests adding these ones from Cole Haan into your rotation. It's a penny-loafer style that's lightweight and has cushiony EVA footbeds to keep your feet supported.
Zhang says this is one of the pairs sitting in her cart. Minnetonka has been crafting shoes since the 1940s, so you can ensure you're getting a pair made with high-quality craftsmanship.
Zhang suggests adding these Sebago shoes to your cart. Most importantly, these ones are water-resistant.
These knitted shoes from Skechers are the perfect "barely there" boat shoe. They boast a memory foam cushion, a stretchy design for socklike comfort and slip-on style for ease.
I personally can't take my eyes off this trendier take on the classic boat shoe trend. It's also available in more subtle neutrals like Black and Tan Suede. If you're looking for a little height, this is the perfect option.
Go for an edgier vibe with these lace-up shoes from Dr. Martens.
Boat shoes for men
You can't go wrong with this tried-and-true favorite from Sperry. Kenger says, "Sperrys are probably the most well-known boat shoe, and they offer a wide range of color options."
This more elevated version of the iconic Sperry style gets Nearis' stamp of approval, and it comes in a variety of colors.
Allen Edmunds is another brand known for high-quality boat shoes, and this neutral pair handpicked by Kenger is great for any activity from the beach to a summer BBQ. They feature a tread pattern so they're slip-resistant and have a roomier feel for a more relaxed fit.
While this pair that Nearis recommends is the perfect shoe to cheer on Team USA, it's suitable to wear year round too.
If you're looking for a more casual, lightweight option, Kenger recommends these ones from Sebago.
"This shoe is a collaboration with one of my favorite menswear brands, Drake's, with the aforementioned Sebago," Kenger says. "This shoe brings a stylish, interesting alternative to the classic boat shoe." The waxed leather adds an elevated touch.
Kenger also backs up Nearis' Cole Haan recommendation with this sleek pair for men that offers all-day comfort.