Boat Shoes In Winter: Styling And Wearing Guide

Boat shoes are traditionally worn in the summer, but some people choose to wear them in the winter. They are designed to be worn without socks, which can be a problem in colder weather. However, you can get away with wearing trainer socks that don't come above the shoes. Boat shoes are also low-cut at the ankle, so longer trousers can help to minimise the impact of the cold. You may also be able to find boat shoes with thicker soles for added insulation.

Wear thicker socks to keep your feet warm

Boat shoes are traditionally worn in warmer weather and are not designed to be worn with socks. However, if you want to wear them in the winter, it is recommended to wear thicker socks and longer trousers to keep your feet and ankles warm.

The boat shoe is a casual shoe, typically reserved for spring and summer events such as garden parties, beach trips, and boating. They are designed to be worn without socks, which can be a problem during the colder months. To combat this, opt for thicker socks that won't be visible above your shoes. Longer trousers can also help to hide the socks and keep your ankles warm.

It's worth noting that boat shoes are not the most practical choice for winter wear. They leave a lot of the foot exposed and vulnerable to the cold. The low-cut ankle design offers less protection against the snow and wind. However, if you're set on wearing boat shoes in the winter, thicker socks can help to minimise the impact of the cold weather on your feet.

In addition to thicker socks, consider choosing boat shoes with thicker soles, which can provide added insulation and grip in cold weather. While the siped sole of boat shoes provides excellent grip in wet weather, the exposure of the foot will make them an awkward and impractical choice for winter.

So, if you plan to wear boat shoes in the winter, remember to choose thicker socks that won't show above your shoes. Pair them with longer trousers to keep your ankles warm and hide the socks. While boat shoes are not the ideal winter footwear, with a few adjustments, you can make them work during the colder months.

Opt for longer trousers to hide the socks

Boat shoes are traditionally worn in warmer weather, and their low-cut ankle design and sockless style can make them a challenge to wear in winter. However, if you're keen to keep wearing your boat shoes in the colder months, opting for longer trousers is a good way to go.

The primary function of longer trousers is to hide the socks that you'll need to wear to keep your feet warm. Boat shoes are typically worn without socks, and this simply isn't practical in winter. Longer trousers will help to minimise the impact of cold weather on your ankles and feet, keeping you warm and comfortable.

The key to pulling off this look is to ensure your trousers are long enough to cover your socks and ankles. This might mean letting your trousers break at the top of your shoes, or even opting for a slightly longer pair that you can cuff or roll up to the perfect length. This way, you can keep the classic boat shoe aesthetic while staying warm and avoiding any fashion faux pas.

When choosing socks to wear with your boat shoes, go for trainer or no-show socks that won't come above the shoes themselves. This will ensure your feet stay warm without ruining the look. If you want to experiment with a new take on the boat shoe style, you could try longer socks that match the colour of your trousers to create a cohesive look.

By combining longer trousers with the right socks, you can continue to wear your boat shoes in the winter while staying stylish and comfortable.

Choose boat shoes with thicker soles for added insulation

Boat shoes are traditionally worn in warmer weather, and their low-cut ankle and sockless design can leave your feet vulnerable to the cold in winter. However, if you're keen to wear boat shoes in winter, choosing a pair with thicker soles can provide added insulation and grip in cold weather.

Thicker soles on boat shoes will help to protect your feet from the cold ground and increase the distance between your feet and any snow or ice. This can make walking in wintery conditions more comfortable and safer.

Additionally, thicker soles can improve the grip of your boat shoes, which is especially important in wet winter weather. The extra thickness can provide more traction and help to prevent slipping, ensuring you stay steady on your feet.

When selecting boat shoes with thicker soles, look for options with a slip-proof rubber sole. This will provide the best grip and durability. You can also opt for boat shoes with a lug sole, which offers excellent traction and is ideal for city walking or outdoor activities.

By choosing boat shoes with thicker soles, you can enjoy the style and comfort of boat shoes year-round while staying warm and safe during the colder months.

Avoid bright colours, stick to neutrals like brown

Boat shoes are traditionally a summer shoe, but if you're keen on wearing them in winter, it's best to avoid bright colours and stick to neutrals like brown. This is because, in the colder months, you'll want to pair them with longer trousers, and bright boat shoes will look out of place. Brown boat shoes, on the other hand, can complement a winter outfit by adding a subtle stylish flair.

When wearing boat shoes in winter, it's also a good idea to opt for thicker socks and longer trousers to minimise the impact of the cold weather on your feet and ankles. The long trousers should also hide the longer socks, a combination generally frowned upon in the summer.

Boat shoes are a casual shoe, typically designed to be worn without socks, so they pose a challenge in winter. No-show socks are an option, but your feet will likely get cold. If you're determined to wear boat shoes in winter, it's best to choose a pair with thicker soles for added insulation and grip in cold weather.

While boat shoes can be worn with jeans, it's important to avoid a stark contrast between the colour of the jeans and the shoes. For example, if you're wearing red or green chinos, opt for a more neutral colour for your shoes, like brown. This will balance out the outfit and ensure the boat shoes don't look out of place.

In terms of style, boat shoes are preppy and pair well with chinos and polo shirts. To avoid looking like an "average American frat guy", steer clear of pastel colours, embroidered belts, and Croakies. Instead, opt for a simple outfit, such as a navy blazer, a white Henley T-shirt, cuffed khakis, and brown boat shoes.

Wear with jeans for an effortless, nautical look

Boat shoes are a casual shoe, and while they are traditionally summer shoes, they can be worn in the winter with the right considerations.

To achieve an effortless, nautical look with jeans, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, roll or cuff the hems of your jeans to complement the boat shoes and draw attention to them. Secondly, stick to classic styles of boat shoes in neutral colours such as brown or beige. You can also try black, especially if you're staying in the city. Opt for luxurious leather with a moccasin-style upper, rugged laces, and a slip-proof rubber sole.

When it comes to socks, it's best to avoid visible socks with boat shoes as it can ruin the aesthetic. Instead, go for no-show socks that won't be seen above your shoes, keeping your feet warm without compromising the look.

Boat shoes are versatile and can be dressed up or down. For a more casual look, pair your jeans and boat shoes with a polo shirt or a t-shirt. If you want to dress it up, add a blazer for an interesting twist on business casual. Just remember to keep the overall look smart-casual, as boat shoes are not meant for formal occasions.

While boat shoes can be worn in the winter, they may not be the most practical choice due to their low-cut design, which offers less protection against the cold, snow, and wind. If you plan to wear them in very cold climates, consider thicker socks and longer trousers to minimise the impact of the cold weather.

Frequently asked questions