Boat Shoes Are Cool Again—We Found 20 Pairs Perfect for Summer

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AHOY THERE! Looking for shoes to conquer the high seas or simply stroll along the shore? Boat shoes have you covered. These classic nautical wonders are not just for sailors—the best boat shoes are waterproof, have a grippy outsole to prevent slipping, and of course look great with your favorite swim trunks, shorts, or summer pants. That's why the best boat shoes for men are go-to summer shoes for active guys who spend a lot of time outdoors.

Function-wise, the best boat shoes for men should have grippy outsoles with razor siping for traction on wet decks, and shock-absorbent midsoles or footbeds for on-the-go comfort. Many are also water shoes meant for surviving salty waves or any wet condition. But it doesn't stop there, mateys: the best boat shoes should also work comfortably on land for any impromptu dockside activities or just a walk around town. All in all, the best boat shoes will have you sailing through life with panache.

Read more: Learn How Men's Health Tests Products

From slip-on shoes to lace-up styles to modern hybrids, we’ve done our own testing on dozens of boat shoes, as well as spoken to experts such as Fashion Director Ted Stafford to find the 20 best boat shoes for men that can be worn all seasons long. Bon voyage.

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The 10 Absolute Best Boat Shoes for Men

Authentic Original™ Boat Shoe

Cutting to the chase is the OG design that has never looked out of style and definitely never will. In fact, we believe that every man should try on this seaworthy style that has remained so popular for decades because they're just so comfy, you'll want to wear them all the time. The leather, for instance, is meticulously hand-sewn for enhanced durability and graceful aging. As you slip your feet into them, you'll also find yourself reveling in the secure, customized fit provided by the signature 360° lacing system. The tried-and-true outsole with razor-cut wave-sipping also offers unrivaled traction for true seafarers.

What we love most about these OGs is that they now come with an OrthoLite insole to envelop your underfoot in comfort and provide shock absorption to each step. Coupled with the inclusion of an EVA heel cup that adds an extra layer of cushioning, we were even able to travel in these shoes for hours.

A wise word, however: while we found Sperry's boat shoes effortlessly easy to break in, they do tend to stretch ever so slightly with each wear. Therefore, we warn against sizing up here for these.

Atlantic Moc Toe Boat Shoe

These boat shoes combine timeless aesthetics with modern features, and we were impressed by both their everyday performance and luxurious feel. Firstly, the smooth and plush linings caress your feet while ensuring a snug fit, and the fully cushioned footbed blessed with OrthoLite® high rebound foam offers unparalleled all-day comfort and flexibility. In our walking test, we found that each step is cushioned and supported by their footbed, ensuring our feet stay fatigue-free.

In addition, the lightweight and durable EVA sole provides optimal traction and stability, making these boat shoes perfect for both on-deck activities and casual outings. All in all, we love how you can confidently navigate various terrains with ease in these while still embracing a timeless summer style.

Tree Skipper Shoes for Men

If you're new to the boat shoe game and don't want to quite commit to Sperry-levels of preppiness, these are a happy medium. We were blown away by how comfortable and athletic they are with the look of a sneaker, but the level of ventilation, structure, and durability you need to hit the beach. The fabric also has both moisture-wicking and odor-reducing properties to keep your feet cool and dry. The brand's proprietary knit feels silky smooth on the skin and is breathable so you'll stay fresh throughout the journey.

Designed for everyday wear, The Tree Skipper's cushioned sole really impressed us with its comfort as well as flexibility that mimics the natural movement of your feet. Style-wise, we love that whether you're running errands or exploring new horizons, these shoes will nicely fit into your wardrobe.

Authentic Original Float Boat Shoe

It's no secret you'd be seeing Sperry at least a couple of times in this guide, but to those who have yet to discover their water shoe styles, we recommend checking them out. Our Fashion Director says that these are perfect for going in the water and enjoying getting your feet wet, yet protecting against rocks.

In our testing, we were impressed by its strong grip, courtesy of the brand's non-marking outsole with molded Wave-Siping™ tech. The holes placed on the upper and the sides are, you guessed it, perfect for draining the water out as well as for breathability. Fit-wise, we love its snugness due to the dynamic upper, but over time it does get loosened up a bit so we recommend sizing down a half.

4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoe

Cole Haan again hits it out of the park on everyday comfort and versatility with these modern, sporty-looking boat shoes that are suitable for life on and off the water. Featuring a breathable mesh upper, these shoes offer excellent ventilation and quick drying capabilities. In fact, the nylon-based mesh not only keeps your feet comfortable but also breaks in soon as you slip in your feet to take the guesswork out of the fit. The Anchortrac™ outsole, on the other hand, is specifically engineered to keep you steady on your feet, whether you're on a boat or exploring the beach.

And, worried about water getting in? Don't be. These are also water shoes with a drainage system to accelerate water removal—no more soggy shoes slowing you down. And the brand's signature GRANDFØAM footbed absorbs shock and provides rebound with each step to keep your feet refreshed and energetic throughout your voyage.

Braided Lace Loafer

These are driving loafers moonlighting as boat shoes, and we love it. Featuring a ventilation and drainage system on the upper and sides, these shoes ensure optimal breathability and moisture management, making them perfect for swimming, pool parties, and generally any summer activity that involves water. The breathable fabric wicks away sweat and moisture as well while being able to withstand light rain or wet conditions.

In our experience of wearing water shoes, we pay extra attention to the outsoles to see if they're actually grippy, and the non-marking rubber here really impressed us with specially crafted treads that enhance grip and stability on slippery surfaces. Offering a true-to-size, no-breaking-in-needed fit, we recommend these boat shoes for avid travelers, city commuters, or outdoorsy adventurers in general who like to get wet.

Read more: Best Loafers for Men

Nautico Boat Shoe

Step aboard the epitome of style and ethical craftsmanship with these premium boat shoes. We were impressed by how well these are built for both strolling down the shore as well as walking in the city for hours on end. The attention to detail in craftsmanship really sets them apart and makes them worth the splurge: the calfskin lining offers a level of softness that feels like a gentle hug for your feet, and we found the leather upper easy to break in and will age gracefully.

Performance-wise, we love its lightweight construction and snug fit that molds to every step. The high-density memory foam insoles provide all-day cushioning, so you can wear them for long adventures as well. Plus, the Goodyear welted construction means they're built to last.

Higley Tie

Set sail for summer style with these Clarks boat shoes that are as close to going barefoot as you can get without, well, going barefoot. Crafted with a breathable textile upper, the Higley Tie allows your feet to stay cool and fresh, perfect for those scorching summer days. We love how the outer of the shoes naturally contours to the shape of our foot, ensuring a customized fit that feels like an extension of yourself.

But the true game-changer lies within the EVA footbed which we found to be able to deliver all-day comfort. Each step feels effortless, and the textile linings provide an added layer of softness. While in a casual style, we also were impressed by the grippy outsole sole which ensures stability and traction, making them ideal for impromptu outdoor adventures as well.

Beacon Boat Shoe

These boat shoes have it all in spades—modern style, affordability, classic vibe, and everyday performance. We love how they feel and look like sneakers but are actually slip-on shoes that are super easy to throw on. But what sets these boat shoes apart is their high rebound footbed that cushions each step while absorbing impact and shock to relieve pressure, and we found them indeed great for walking and standing all day. Additionally, the footbed is treated with Cleansport NTXTM technology, offering odor control and promoting good foot health.

The upper of these boat shoes is also worth a shoutout. Not only does it exude a classic sophistication to your look, but the breathable fabric linings inside also ensure optimal airflow, keeping your feet cool and comfortable throughout the day.

Gordons Bay Boat Shoe

Embark on a journey of unparalleled comfort and style with Rodd & Gunn's boat shoes. Style-wise, they're true to the core boat shoe look but have the burnished leather uppers that easily spruce up your footwear game. The leather and canvas lining exudes a casual elegance, providing a comfortable and relaxed feel. But our favorite part about them is the performance. From the rigid anti-slip outsole that grounds your every step to the supportive footbed that cushions your every step, your feet will be able to keep up with the pace all day long.

We also love how versatile they are. Whether you're strolling along the shoreline or navigating the urban jungle, these boat shoes effortlessly adapt to any setting and pair very well with shorts or cuff jeans. With elasticated reinforcement across the tongue, you also have the freedom to remove the laces, transforming these shoes into a sophisticated slip-on for effortless style.

More Boat Shoes We Love

Haller Slip-On

Get ready to set sail in style with these slip-on style boat shoes that require zero effort to put on but will deliver maximum summer vacation panache—and comfort. Crafted with a breathable, washed canvas upper and a vulcanized rubber outsole, these kicks keep your feet cool and comfy, and your steps steady. With features like InsoFit cushioning EVA footbed and elastic goring, slipping them on and off will be as smooth as sailing on calm waters.

PFG Slack Tide™ Boat Shoe

Made equally for fishing and rocking the dock, Columbia’s boat shoes have the streamlined profile of sneakers but are still your companion for seafaring adventures. We love their grippy outsole designed for wet-dry traction, and shock-absorbent midsole that’ll keep our underfoot comfortable during those marathon fishing trips. Plus, it's equipped with rust-proof hardware, stain-resistant treatment, and an antimicrobial footbed, because even the toughest outdoor person needs to stay fresh.

SeaCycled™ Authentic Original™ Baja Boat Shoe

Handsewn with a recycled canvas upper that is breathable and super easy to break in, and a rubber outsole featuring Wave-Siping™ for wet-dry traction, these sustainable shoes offer a more eco-conscious twist on Sperry's OG style.

Wellie Sport Shoes, Slip-On

Made for long days on the coast, a feature of the boat shoes is its water-resistance exterior fabric. If you truly want a waterproof shoe for, say, swimming and boating, then we suggest these sports shoes. A rubber-shell upper protects your feet and dries easily, while their neoprene collars make them easy to take on and off.

Authentic Original 2-eye boat shoes

In this collab, we see Sperry's classic two-eye boat shoes style renovated in exclusive colors and better leather materials. The upper is still as easy to break in as your OGs, and the sole still provides the traction you need for dockside walks. But the sophisticated style is seriously turned up. Grab a pair so you can stand out amongst a sea of regular Sperry boat shoes.

Mariner Slip-on

These Mariner water-ready espadrille style boat shoes are the ultimate for wading in the water, walking on rocky sands, and wearing to dinner once they dry (or not). They are super comfortable with stretch neoprene upper that is quick-drying and lightweight, and interior grommets for ventilation. The fabric also holds up for years to come.

Cort Venetian

More loafers than boat shoes but just as good for nautical fun, these take casual comfort to a whole new level. With a grippy EVA sole and a genuine moccasin construction, they are the perfect boat shoe for leisure drives by the beach or spontaneous dockside walks. Handsewn details and leather lining make them feel like comfy slippers, while the removable cushioned insole ensures your feet are always in shipshape condition.

Leather Premium Boat Shoes

Set sail for savings and into the classic, recognizable boat shoe style with these. Crafted with fine leather, cushioned footbed, and hand-sewn details, they offer comfort and a versatile look. Non-marking and slip-resistant too, these slip-on wonders are perfect for anything from a ride on the sea or an impromptu stroll by the shore.

Boat Shoes in Suede

Boat shoes naturally lean casual, but we love how these suede boat shoes look sophisticated and therefore are perfect for dressing up and copping an elevated fit. The upper we found is easy to break in, and the grooved sole is the brand's signature while delivering optimal traction.

Merton Color-Blocked Leather Boat Shoe

Boat shoes need not look so preppy and serious. Add a stylish pop of blue, yellow, green, and white to your nautical fits is a real makeover to your rotation of bro-y boat shoes.

What to Look for in Boat Shoes for Men?

Traction: If you want boat shoes to wear on a boat, you'll want to ensure good traction on the outsole, so you don't slip on a wet surface. Since boat shoes are designed to walk on slippery, wet, slick surfaces—sometimes even underwater, getting the right traction—i.e., how grippy the outsole is to the surface—is important. The best boat shoes often have specifically designed outsoles (razor-siped, lugged, grooved, deeply ridged, etc.) to increase friction and therefore traction. Non-slip or non-marking rubber soles are also essential for safety on wet surfaces.

Material: Look for durable, water-resistant materials like leather. The OG boat shoes by Sperry, after all, have a leather upper. Tanned leather, for instance, will offer more water resistance. On the other hand, quick-drying materials like synthetic mesh, fabric, or textiles are also a good choice. Canvas, for example, is less water-resistant but can dry fast and gives more breathability. Avoid suede and brushed nubuck leather if you're wearing boat shoes to the water.

Fit: Fit means comfort in boat shoes. While most boat shoes generally feel comfortable on the foot, they may require a bit of breaking in, which is why it's better to size down a half first since they'll loosen up once worn over time. Since you'll typically wear boat shoes without socks, a snug fit is also crucial. If you buy a boat shoe that's too large, your heel will move around the shoe which can result in discomfort and blisters.

Drainage: Boat shoes are not inherently water shoes—i.e., you won't necessarily put boat shoes deep in water. But, waterproofing your boat shoes is still important so that they can dry quickly. With a drainage system such as holes or a ventilation system such as mesh upper in place, your boat shoes will stay dry, and so will your feet.

Style: Not all boat shoes are built the same—some are meant for the waves and designed for sailors to wear on boats, some are water shoes that can be submerged underwater, some are rugged enough for fishing and canyoneering, but some just are just your everyday summer shoes for walking and traveling. That is to say, besides the OG look championed by Sperry, boat shoes now include styles such as Venetian loafers and slip-ons.

Should You Wear Socks With Boat Shoes?

Technically speaking, boat shoes are meant to be worn without socks out of safety. That is especially true if you're wearing boat shoes to sail or tread the water because it's easy for socks to get wet and you'll thus likely slip. That said, if you're wearing boat shoes for the style or just for a stroll by the shore or in the city, we recommend wearing no-show socks to go with them since, as summer shoes, boat shoes are very much like loafers when it comes to a sockless flex.

What Should I Wear With Boat Shoes?

Boat shoes have a classic, nautical, sometimes preppy vibe which versatile for various occasions. For a smart casual fit, pair your boat shoes with chinos or chino shorts and a crisp polo shirt or a casual button-down. To polish it up, match them with tailored summer pants and a casual blazer. For your everyday fit, we've seen guys look very on-point with just plain or striped t-shirts plus shorts.

Boat shoes also work surprisingly well with denim, whether it's jeans or denim shorts (just don't go hard, as in, denim top over denim bottoms; and make sure the colors complement each other instead of clashing). All in all, remember that boat shoes are designed for a relaxed, laid-back summer style, so they go best with lightweight, breathable fabrics.

How We Tested and Selected

Our testing team ventured through various environments in boat shoes—like sporting them to the dockside or to the office—to see how each pair compared to each others.

Comfort Test: We meticulously evaluated the cushioning, arch support, and overall fit of each pair. We tried the fit right out of the box to see if they required breaking in or sizing up/down, and paid special attention to the footbed materials as well as the flexibility of the outsole to guarantee optimum comfort without compromising durability.

Traction Test: We rigorously examined the grip of the outsoles by wearing these boat shoes on slippery grounds. We closely investigated how the sole’s lug patterns, materials, and depth worked together to offer grip.

Durability Test: We evaluated the materials, stitching, and overall construction to feel how sturdy and balanced these boat shoes are and how well they can withstand wear or tear.

Versatility Test: We assessed whether the boat shoes can be worn for walking, casual everyday wear, seafaring activities, etc. In addition, we scrutinized features—such as patented tech or specialized materials—to ensure they meet the demands of various outdoor, water-ready pursuits.

Why Trust Us

At Men’s Health, our testing editors and writers always make sure to actually test and use the products ourselves before considering whether to include them. Therefore, rest assured that our product recommendations derive from first-hand experience, and you can read more about our testing process here.

For instance, we have a whole fashion closet in our NYC office dedicated to calling in, trying out, and selecting the best and newest menswear products. We put them on stylish, fit guys to hear their opinions and see how the items look on them before making our final decision. And as style editors, we constantly go into the fashion closet to feel a product’s materials—even put it on ourselves for a spin—to test it.

Lastly, you can trust our opinions on shopping recommendations, whether it’s the products, styling tips, or trends. Not only do we have Fashion Director Ted Stafford and Deputy Editor, Commerce Christian Gollyan, but we also have a panel of style experts—including stylists, fashion influencers, designers, etc.—whom we regularly seek shopping guides from. Therefore, our product recommendations and buying tips are all driven by professional, expert opinions.

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