What Are Boat Shoes? Top Picks (& Comparison with Loafers)

“What are boat shoes?” is a question many of us ask when we see someone rocking them with ease. Boat shoes are casual slip-ons made for comfort, usually with leather or canvas tops and rubber soles that grip well on wet surfaces. They're perfect for summer and go well with almost any outfit.

They started on boat decks but quickly became a go-to for everyday wear. We’ve worn them to beach trips and backyard parties. Stick around and find out whether they are comfortable or not. At the end, we’re also sharing which are the best boat shoes you can get.

Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

• Boat shoes are casual slip-ons with non-slip soles and a low-cut, lace-up design.

• They were originally made for wet boat decks, but now they’re part of everyday style.

• You can wear them to the beach, BBQs, travel days, and more.

• Boat shoes feel soft, light, and easy to walk in all day.

• You can wear them without socks or with no-show socks for more comfort.

• They're more casual than loafers and aren’t meant for formal events.

• The best boat shoes are made by brands like Sperry, Sebago, Timberland, and Quoddy.

What Are Boat Shoes? (Review)

Boat shoes are casual shoes that were originally made for walking on wet boat decks. They have rubber soles that grip the floor well, so you don’t slip. The top part is usually made of leather or canvas, and they have a low-cut style with laces. You’ll often see them with a moc-toe design and rawhide laces that go around the sides.

Boat shoes are also called deck shoes, and they’ve been around since the 1930s. Even though they started as shoes for sailors, now they’re a big part of summer fashion. People wear them with shorts, chinos, jeans, and even dresses. You don’t need socks with them, and they’re super easy to slip on.

When we first saw them, we thought they were just for boat people. But once we tried them, we got why they’re so popular. They’re light and look good without trying too hard.

What Are Boat Shoes Used For?

Boat shoes are mainly used for casual wear, especially during warmer months. They were originally made to help sailors stay steady on slippery decks, but now people wear them for comfort and style.

Here are some common ways you can use boat shoes:

We’ve worn boat shoes for all these reasons, and they’ve never let us down. They just work in those in-between moments when sneakers feel too sporty and dress shoes feel too much.

Boat Shoes vs Loafers: What’s the Real Difference?

Boat shoes and loafers might look a little alike, but they’re not the same at all. They have different materials, functions, and even vibes. Here’s what you need to know if you’re trying to pick between them.

We’ve worn both. If we’re heading to a beach town or laid-back event, boat shoes win every time. But for meetings or nice dinners, loafers do the job better. It really depends on where you’re going and how you want to look.

Can You Wear Boat Shoes in Water or Get Them Wet?

Yes, you can get boat shoes wet, but there’s a catch. Traditional leather boat shoes were designed to handle some water, especially saltwater splashes on boats. They dry out eventually and still hold up well. But that doesn’t mean they’re meant to be soaked like water shoes.

We’ve accidentally stepped into shallow water while wearing them, and they were fine after drying out. But we wouldn’t recommend swimming or walking in puddles with them on. Leather can stiffen or crack over time if it stays wet too long. Some canvas versions handle water a bit better and dry faster.

What we usually do is treat them like water-resistant shoes, not waterproof ones. They’ll take a splash, but not a soak. And if they do get wet, just let them air dry.

Are Boat Shoes Casual or Formal?

Boat shoes are definitely more casual than formal. They were originally made for boat decks, so their whole design is built around comfort. If you wear them with well-fitted chinos and a button-down shirt, they can work for casual Fridays.

We usually think of them as the middle ground between sneakers and loafers. They’re cleaner than most sneakers, but more relaxed than loafers.

One time, we wore boat shoes to a friend’s engagement party on the beach. Everyone was dressed nicely, but still casual. Our shoes fit right in. So if you're going somewhere that’s chill but still stylish, boat shoes totally work. 

Can You Wear Boat Shoes with Socks?

Yes, you can wear boat shoes with socks. However, it really depends on the look you want. Traditionally, boat shoes are worn without visible socks. That’s part of the laid-back style. Bare ankles, rolled-up pants, and a clean summer vibe. That’s what people usually go for.

But if you care about comfort or sweat, you don’t have to suffer. What we do is wear no-show socks. They protect your feet and keep the inside of your shoes from smelling, but they stay hidden.

Now, some people do wear regular ankle or crew socks with boat shoes, especially in cooler months. It’s not a fashion crime, but it changes the look completely.

8 Best Boat Shoes (Complete List)

If you're shopping for the best boat shoes, you want a mix of comfort and real style. Some brands have been trusted for years, while others bring a modern twist. Here’s a simple list of top boat shoes:

Conclusion

So, here’s what we’ve learned after years of wearing them: boat shoes are casual, easy to wear, and super versatile. You can dress them up a little or keep it totally laid-back. They're not for suits or rainstorms, but they’re perfect for warm days.

If you’re wondering whether to try a pair, our answer is simple: yes. You’ll probably end up living in them half the year. We’ve done it, and honestly, we never regret it.