Black Boat Shoes: Timeless Style Or Passing Trend?

Boat shoes have been a staple in the fashion world for decades, with their popularity exploding in the 80s and 90s as a casual shoe. Initially designed for maritime adventures, boat shoes are typically low-cut leather shoes with moccasin-style toes, non-marking, non-slip soles, and a lacing system that ensures a snug fit. While they were once considered a dad shoe, boat shoes have recently made a comeback, with fashion designers and insiders debating whether the preppy slip-ons are back in style. This resurgence is attributed to their appearance on runways, their appeal to the old money aesthetic, and their versatility as a summer dress shoe. Black boat shoes, in particular, have gained attention as a sturdy option for those who want to embrace the trend without venturing onto the water.

Are black boat shoes a fashion staple?

Boat shoes have been a wardrobe staple for men and women since the 80s and 90s. Initially designed for maritime adventures, they are now a quintessential part of many wardrobes, loved for their style, comfort, and practicality. They are typically low-cut leather shoes with a moccasin-style toe, non-marking, non-slip soles, and a snug fit.

Black boat shoes, in particular, have been described as a good option for those who "don't plan on leaving the city". They are also a great choice for those wanting to channel a preppy early-Vampire Weekend vibe. Boat shoes are a preppy staple, so they go well with chinos and polo shirts. To avoid looking too much like a frat guy, it's best to avoid pastel colours, embroidered belts, and Croakies.

Black boat shoes are also a good option for those wanting to experiment with an "old money" aesthetic. This trend has been popularised by Gen Z on TikTok and has been described as a form of "cultural cosplay". Black boat shoes can be paired with light-wash jeans or a linen suit to dress up an outfit without being too serious.

Black boat shoes are a fashion staple for those wanting to channel a preppy, nautical, or old-money aesthetic. They are a versatile shoe that can be dressed up or down and provide both style and comfort.

What are some popular black boat shoe brands?

Black boat shoes are a timeless classic and remain in style today. Here are some popular black boat shoe brands for men and women:

Men's Black Boat Shoes

Sperry offers a range of black boat shoes, including the Authentic Original, A/O 2-Eye Cross Lace, Gold Authentic Original 2-Eye Seasonal, and Authentic Original 3-Eye Lug. The brand is known for its water shoe styles, featuring drainage holes and a strong grip, courtesy of its non-marking outsole with Wave-Siping technology.

Other popular brands include COACH with its Benson Boat Shoe, Cole Haan with the Grandpro Winward Boat Shoe, and Dunham with its Captain boat shoe in black.

Women's Black Boat Shoes

For women, Sebago offers a wide range of colours and materials, including black. Their Docksides collection is iconic and features hand-stitched, non-marking, anti-slip soles. Dubarry's Commodore XLT moccasin boat shoes are also available in black and offer extra lightness and good cushioning.

Unisex Black Boat Shoes

Adelante Nautico Boat Shoes are a premium option for both men and women, crafted with high-quality leather and featuring a memory foam footbed for all-day cushioning.

Are black boat shoes suitable for sailing?

Black boat shoes are indeed in style, but are they suitable for sailing? The answer is yes, but it depends on the type of boat shoe and the sailing conditions.

Boat shoes, or deck shoes, have been popular footwear for sailors and yacht club members for almost a century. They are known for their classic style, comfort, and practicality, often featuring slip-resistant soles and nautical-inspired designs. While they may be fashionable, it's important to prioritize purpose, fit, and comfort when choosing the best shoes for sailing.

Traditional boat shoes are typically made of suede or leather and have a low-profile design with relatively flat soles. They are soft, flexible, and not usually waterproof, but they can be treated with chemicals to improve water resistance. These shoes are ideal for style-conscious sailors and are often worn during regattas and dockside events. They provide good traction on wet decks due to their unique non-slip texture.

On the other hand, modern boat shoes are designed for offshore use and are made of waterproof synthetic materials. These shoes are preferred by offshore sailing crews who need to stay warm and dry in rough weather conditions. They are often used with full-body foul weather gear and resemble snow or rain boots in appearance. While they are excellent for protection against the elements, they can be heavier and more cumbersome than traditional boat shoes.

When choosing boat shoes for sailing, look for the following key features:

• Traction: Opt for non-slip soles, preferably made of rubber or a similar material, to provide excellent grip on a wet deck.
• Water-resistance: Choose shoes designed with water-resistant materials to keep your feet dry and warm.
• Quick-drying: Select shoes made from materials that dry quickly to avoid soggy, cold feet.
• Durability: Invest in high-quality, durable shoes to withstand bumps and knocks during sailing.
• Full protection: Look for shoes that protect against water, wind, and sun to prevent sunburnt feet.
• Fit and comfort: Ensure your shoes have a secure fit, are comfortable to wear, and allow for easy movement.
• Non-marking soles: Rubber soles are a good choice to avoid leaving marks on the deck. Light-colored soles are generally preferred by sailors.

In conclusion, black boat shoes can be suitable for sailing, depending on the specific features and your sailing needs. Traditional black boat shoes made of leather or suede can offer style and functionality, while modern black boat shoes made of synthetic materials provide superior water protection for offshore sailing. Remember to consider the key features outlined above when selecting the best boat shoes for your sailing adventures.

What are some styling tips for black boat shoes?

Black boat shoes are a timeless and sophisticated wardrobe staple that can be styled in a variety of ways. Here are some tips to help you rock this versatile shoe:

Keep it Casual

Black boat shoes are perfect for achieving a smart-casual look. Pair them with jeans, preferably with cuffed hems to draw attention to the shoes. For a more polished twist on casual, try a dark wash denim and a blazer. You can also roll up your jeans and add a button-down shirt for a relaxed vibe.

Suit Up

If you want to add a modern twist to a refined look, pair black boat shoes with a black suit and a black raincoat. For a more playful take, swap the black suit for a blue or navy one, and add a white linen long-sleeve shirt.

Summer Styling

Black boat shoes can be a great addition to your summer wardrobe. For a laid-back summer look, pair them with white or beige shorts and a lightweight top. For a more urban feel, try an embroidered crew-neck t-shirt and orange sports shorts.

Maritime Vibes

As boat shoes were originally made for maritime activities, they are perfect for channelling nautical vibes. Pair your black boat shoes with navy and white tops, or go for striped patterns or polka dots to add a playful touch.

Socks or No Socks?

The general rule is to avoid wearing visible socks with boat shoes, as it can ruin the look. However, no-show socks can provide the comfort of socks without being seen.

So, whether you're off to the beach, the office, or a casual date, black boat shoes can be a stylish and versatile choice.

Are black boat shoes comfortable?

Boat shoes are known for their comfort, practicality, and style. They are designed to be worn without socks, so the soft, lace-up shoe is often favoured for its smartness compared to a sneaker.

Boat shoes are designed with a soft, lace-up shape that moulds to the foot. The best boat shoes will be comfortable right out of the box, with a soft leather insole and minimal padding that will conform to the shape of the wearer's feet over time. The most comfortable boat shoes will have a full-leather upper, mid-sole, and footbed, with a soft yet slightly rough finish.

The break-in period for boat shoes varies depending on the make and material. Some boat shoes can take a month or more to break in, and during this time, the wearer may experience discomfort and blistering. However, once broken in, boat shoes mould to the wearer's feet and become increasingly comfortable.

The best boat shoes will have a long lifespan and can be re-soled. The ideal boat shoe will have a sturdy, handcrafted construction, with meticulous stitching and quality control.

Boat shoes are designed with a non-marking rubber sole to prevent slipping on boat decks. The best boat shoes will have a sole with excellent traction and grip on wet surfaces.

Frequently asked questions