Boat Shoes: To Wear Or Not To Wear?

When it comes to footwear on a boat, safety and functionality are paramount. The best shoes for boating are those that provide grip and traction on wet and slippery surfaces, have water-resistant and durable materials, and feature non-marking soles to prevent scuffing and damage to the boat's delicate surfaces.

Boat shoes, also known as nautical moccasins, are a classic choice for boaters as they tick all the boxes for safety and style. They are designed specifically for use on boats and typically offer strong traction, water-resistant materials, and non-marking rubber soles. Some popular options include Sperry's Authentic Originals and Quoddy Head Boat Shoes.

For those who prefer a cooler and more open option, sport sandals with slip-resistant soles and adjustable fasteners are a great alternative. It is important to avoid wearing high heels and dark-soled shoes as they can damage the deck and leave unsightly marks.

Additionally, it is recommended to keep your shoes clean and dry before boarding to avoid tracking dirt, sand, or mud onto the boat, which can enhance safety and prevent slipping hazards.

The purpose of boat shoes

Boat shoes are designed with specific features to enhance performance and comfort on a boat. They are typically made from leather or canvas, which are sturdy materials capable of withstanding exposure to water, salt, and other elements without compromising their integrity. The soles of boat shoes are usually made from rubber or similar materials and have a unique tread pattern that provides exceptional grip and traction on wet and slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of accidents while moving around on the deck of a boat.

Boat shoes also feature small perforations or drainage channels that allow water to escape quickly, ensuring that the wearer's feet stay dry and comfortable. The lacing system of boat shoes often includes leather laces that can be tightened for a secure fit or loosened for a more relaxed feel. Additionally, the laces help prevent the shoes from slipping off in rough waters.

Boat shoes are known for their versatility and can be worn for various activities beyond boating, such as leisurely strolls, casual gatherings, and other outdoor activities. They are praised for their comfortable fit and stylish design, making them a popular choice for many individuals.

• Non-Marking Soles: Boat shoes are designed with non-marking rubber soles to prevent scuffing and damage to delicate boat surfaces, especially the decks.
• Grip and Traction: The unique tread pattern and rubber composition of the soles provide exceptional grip and traction on wet and slippery surfaces, ensuring stability and reducing the risk of accidents.
• Quick Drainage System: Many boat shoes have small perforations or drainage channels that allow water to escape quickly, keeping feet dry and comfortable.
• Durable Materials: Boat shoes are made from durable materials like leather or canvas, which can withstand exposure to water, salt, and other elements.
• Lacing System: Boat shoes often have leather laces that can be tightened for a secure fit or loosened for a more relaxed feel. The laces also help prevent the shoes from slipping off.
• Comfort and Style: Boat shoes offer a comfortable fit and a versatile style that can transition from the deck to shore, making them suitable for various activities.

Boat shoes vs. deck shoes

Boat shoes and deck shoes are often used interchangeably, and while they were once distinct types of footwear, they are now largely defined by style rather than function. Both types of shoes were originally designed for boating and maritime activities, offering good traction on wet surfaces and providing comfort for extended periods onboard.

Boat Shoes

Boat shoes originated in the United States in the 1930s and were popularized by the brand Sperry Top-Sider. They typically feature a non-marking rubber sole with a "siping" pattern, which consists of razor-like cuts that improve traction on wet surfaces. The soles are traditionally white but are often dark in modern versions. Boat shoes usually have a 360-degree lacing system with leather laces that provide a customised fit and better stability. They are often associated with a casual and sporty aesthetic, featuring leather or suede uppers with decorative stitching around the toe.

Deck Shoes

Deck shoes, on the other hand, have British origins and were initially associated with sailors in the British Navy. They may feature a traditional rubber sole or a combination of rubber and leather. Deck shoes often have a simpler two-eyelet lacing system or may even be slip-on, with elastic or bungee laces for convenience. They tend to have a slightly more formal appearance, with cleaner lines and a simpler overall design. Deck shoes are often unisex, with similar styles for both men and women.

While there are some stylistic differences between boat shoes and deck shoes, modern versions of both types of footwear emphasise style over function, incorporating traditional elements as stylistic features rather than functional ones. Ultimately, the choice between boat shoes and deck shoes comes down to personal preference and the specific features and style that suit the wearer's needs.

Non-sailing shoes

While boat shoes are the classic choice for those looking for comfortable and stylish footwear, there are several other options for non-sailing shoes that can be worn on a boat. Here are some alternatives to consider:

• Sport sandals: Look for sandals with slip-resistant soles and adjustable fasteners to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
• Sneakers: Adidas Cloudfoam running shoes are lightweight and provide good grip with a rubber sole. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low Tops are also a popular choice among sailors as they are budget-friendly, have non-marking soles, and offer great traction.
• Water shoes: Astral Loyak water shoes are minimalist, low-cut shoes with a super grippy sole and water-resistant canvas outer. They are designed for vigorous water activities and provide excellent grip and comfort.
• Ankle boots: Grundéns Deck Boss Ankle Boots are designed for people who spend long days on their feet and offer a thicker insole for shock absorption and a comfortable cooling liner. Xtratuf also offers a range of ankle boots that are fully waterproof and provide excellent traction and protection in extreme conditions.
• Casual shoes: Hey Dudes, Crocs, and Merrill are popular choices for casual footwear on boats as they are comfortable, waterproof, and easy to slip on and off.

Best sailing shoes

When it comes to sailing, wearing the right shoes is just as important as wearing the right jacket. The right footwear will keep you safe from injury, protect you from the elements, and ensure your comfort while out on the water.

Best open deck sailing shoe

The KEEN SOLR sandal is a high-performance closed-toe water sandal that is great for sailing, SUPing, and other water sports. It features recycled plastic bottle webbing that is abrasion-resistant, a water-resistant upper, a quick-dry lining, and a non-marking rubber sole with excellent grip.

Best traditional boat shoe

The Sperry Authentic Original 2-Eye boat shoe is a classic, ultimate in comfort, and offers terrific traction in wet or dry conditions. It features a full-grain 100% leather upper, rawhide laces, handsewn moccasin construction, an Ortholite® insole for greater comfort, and a non-marking rubber outsole with Sperry's signature razor-cut Wave-Siping™ technology for ultimate wet/dry traction.

Best casual, but tough sailing shoe

The Astral Loyak water shoe is a minimalist, low-cut, top-rated water shoe with one of the grippiest soles on the market. It is made from recycled polyester with materials sourced as sustainably as possible and features a water-resistant canvas outer, removable insoles, holes in the front and back to drain water, mesh to vent hot air, a wider toe box, and it is lightweight.

Best offshore sailing shoe

The Helly Hansen Skagen F-1 is a high-performance sneaker hybrid designed for excellent stability on deck with a streamlined design. It is built for speed, comfort, and protection and features multi-zone traction grip for decks, a non-marking rubber compound sole, a seamless, breathable design, and a quick-dry EVA insole.

Best deck ankle boots for sailing

The Grundéns Deck Boss Ankle Boot is a high-performance deck boot that provides durability, waterproof protection, and comfort. It features a razor siped, gum rubber outsole, an all-day comfort footbed, an asymmetrical top line, and an anti-microbial, temperature-regulating liner.

Best budget-conscious sailing boot

The Xtratuf 15-inch Legacy boot is a fully waterproof construction that provides comfort and performance. It features triple-dipped neoprene shells for watertight protection, good flexibility and strength at critical stress points, and a slip-resistant, non-marking chevron outsole.

Best premium sailing boot

The Dubarry Ultimata ExtraFit sailing boot is made from the highest quality leather and designed to feel like a second skin. It features an award-winning NonSlip-NonMarking™ outsole, expandable Lycra for a snug fit, and Gore-Tex insulation to keep your feet dry, cozy, and agile in any weather.

What not to wear on a boat

When preparing for a boat trip, choosing the right footwear is essential for your safety and comfort. Here is a list of what not to wear on a boat:

• Dark-soled shoes: Dark-soled shoes, particularly those with hard rubber soles, are not recommended as they have a higher chance of leaving unsightly marks on the deck. Opt for light-coloured, non-marking soles to protect the boat's appearance.
• High heels: High heels, heeled wedges, and similar shoe styles are not suitable for boats as they can damage and mark the deck. They also do not offer good stability or grip when walking on a heeled boat, increasing the risk of slipping and falling.
• Boots: Unless specifically designed for boating, boots can be unsafe and impractical on a boat. They may not provide the necessary grip and traction on wet and slippery surfaces and can be uncomfortable and restrictive.
• Platforms: Platforms can pose a tripping hazard and may not provide adequate grip on a boat deck.
• Sperry Boat Shoes: While Sperry boat shoes are a classic choice, some users have reported issues with the soles becoming hard and slippery after a few months of use, which can be dangerous.
• Crocs: Although Crocs are lightweight, waterproof, and comfortable, they may not provide sufficient structure and stability, especially when side-loaded.
• Socks: While socks can be worn with boat shoes, they are not necessary and can make your feet hotter and sweatier. Going sockless allows for better ventilation and showcases the shoe's design and the wearer's sense of style.

Frequently asked questions