Kristian Ferrell
Boat shoes have been around for a while, but they've recently been given a high-fashion renaissance. Miu Miu, Prada and Loro Piana have all launched styles, and the boat shoe is now cool again.
Boat shoes are typically constructed from canvas or leather with non-marking rubber soles, created for wear while sailing. They're a comfortable, casual and fashionable option for men and women, but they need to be worn correctly.
Boat shoes are pretty casual, so the outfit should be casual, too. For men, they look great with jeans, chinos or shorts. For women, they work well with cropped or cuffed denim, skirts, casual dresses, shorts and khakis.
When it comes to socks, it's a hard no to visible socks. No-show socks are a better option, but ideally, go sockless.
Boat shoes have laces on the sides to provide a more snug fit. They shouldn't slip off easily, so use the side lacing system to make sure they're tight enough.
When can you wear boat shoes? They're a spring and summer style, and are best worn in casual settings. Rock them at the beach, when travelling, at a casual bar, or on a boat, of course.
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salt-proofed, salt-washed, salt- |
What You'll Learn
Boat shoes should be worn without socks, or with invisible ankle socks
Boat shoes are a preppy, coastal staple, and are incredibly versatile. They can be worn with jeans, chinos, shorts, and even suits. However, one of the most hotly-contested aspects of wearing boat shoes is whether or not to wear socks.
The general consensus is that boat shoes should be worn without socks, or with invisible ankle socks. Wearing calf-height crew socks with boat shoes is considered "peak dad behaviour". The exception to this rule is no-show socks, which allow you to keep the comfort of socks without ruining the aesthetic.
Wearing boat shoes without socks can cause blisters and odour, and the sweat will eventually damage the leather upper. However, this can be mitigated by using baby powder, kitty litter, tea bags, or dryer sheets in your shoes overnight.
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Boat shoes are best worn with chinos, jeans, or shorts
Boat shoes are a classic casual shoe trend in the menswear world, and they are best worn with chinos, jeans, or shorts.
Chinos
Chinos are a great pairing with boat shoes. For a smart-casual look, opt for cuffed tan chinos, a pique polo, or a rugby-style top. If you want to add some colour, go for red or green chinos, but be sure to contrast them with a neutral-coloured shoe, like brown. To complete the look, remember to cuff your chinos—a simple single or double cuff will do.
Jeans
Boat shoes also look great with jeans. For a more effortless, nautical look, try cuffing the hems of your jeans to draw attention to your shoes. As with chinos, a simple single or double cuff is best. Avoid skinny jeans or bootcut styles, and instead, opt for a slim or regular fit.
Shorts
Boat shoes and shorts are a perfect combination for summertime. For a smart-casual look, pair navy chino shorts with a polo shirt. If you're going for a more detailed, attention-grabbing boat shoe, opt for plainer, tailored shorts to balance out the look.
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Boat shoes are a casual shoe, and should be worn with casual outfits
Boat shoes are a versatile casual shoe and are best paired with relaxed, casual outfits. They are the perfect summer shoe and can be dressed up or down.
For a smart-casual look, boat shoes work well with chinos, a pique polo, or a rugby-style top. For a more relaxed look, pair them with chino shorts, a linen shirt, or a loose-fitting crew-neck tee. They also work well with jeans, but avoid skinny jeans or bootcut styles. Instead, opt for a slim or regular fit and a simple single or double cuff.
Boat shoes are typically made from canvas or leather and have non-marking rubber soles, designed with sailing in mind. They are a preppy, coastal shoe, so it's best to lean into those styles and avoid trying to 'edge up' your look. Keep colours simple and classic; navy, brown leather, and white are the most versatile and suit the style best.
When it comes to socks, boat shoes are typically worn with invisible ankle socks or 'sock-ettes'. Avoid calf-height crew socks, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can go sockless, but be aware that this may cause blisters and odour, and can damage the shoe's leather upper.
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Boat shoes are best worn in spring and summer
Boat shoes are a versatile footwear option for spring and summer. They are a great alternative to dress shoes, flip-flops, and sneakers. The shoes' non-slip rubber soles and hand-sewn upper design make them a functional and aesthetic choice for boaters and non-boaters alike.
Boat shoes are typically constructed from canvas or leather with non-marking rubber soles, making them ideal for gripping a yacht's deck. The oil-treated leather construction also helps repel water. The shoes' unique design and construction make them perfect for the summer months, whether you're spending time on a boat or at the beach.
When styling boat shoes, it's important to lean into their preppy nature. They work best with a smart, casual look, such as cuffed chino pants or jeans, and a polo shirt or rugby-style top. For a more relaxed outfit, pair them with chino shorts, linen shirts, or loose-fitting crew-neck tees. To complete the look, opt for no-show or invisible ankle socks to avoid the dad shoe look.
Boat shoes are a great way to add a nautical touch to your spring and summer wardrobe while staying comfortable and stylish.
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Boat shoes should be tight-fitting
Boat shoes are a versatile footwear option, suitable for both casual and formal occasions. When it comes to the fit of boat shoes, there are two schools of thought: those who prefer a tight fit and those who favour a looser fit. While the decision ultimately boils down to personal preference, there are several compelling reasons why one might opt for a tighter-fitting pair of boat shoes.
Firstly, tight-fitting boat shoes provide stability and security when walking on wet surfaces. The snug fit prevents slipping and sliding, ensuring your feet remain stable and reducing the risk of injuries. This is especially important for the shoe's original purpose—to provide traction on slippery boat decks. The long laces on boat shoes are designed to tighten the fit, enhancing this stability.
Secondly, a tight fit prevents your feet from sliding around inside the shoe, which can be uncomfortable and even cause blisters or corns. This is crucial when going sockless, as is typical with boat shoes. While some opt for no-show socks or sockettes, many prefer to go barefoot in their boat shoes, and a tight fit can help prevent the friction that leads to blisters.
When trying on boat shoes, it is advisable to do so later in the day, as your feet may be slightly swollen from walking around, giving you a more accurate idea of the fit. Additionally, be sure to test the shoes' stability on both dry and wet surfaces, and pay attention to any discomfort or slipping, as this may indicate an improper fit.
While a tight fit offers stability and security, it is important to ensure your boat shoes are not too tight, as this can lead to discomfort and a lack of breathability. Finding the perfect balance between a secure fit and comfort is key when deciding on the ideal pair of boat shoes.
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Frequently asked questions
Boat shoes are a preppy staple, so they'll feel at home with chinos and polo shirts. Keep it simple and avoid pastel colours, embroidered belts, and Croakies.
Unless you're feeling very brave, it's best to avoid wearing visible socks with boat shoes. Instead, opt for invisible ankle socks or go commando, though be warned that this may cause blisters and odour.
Boat shoes work best with chino trousers, although jeans can also work. Avoid skinny trousers or bootcut jeans, and make sure your trousers are cuffed – a simple single or double cuff will do the trick.
Boat shoes are a spring and summer style, so it's best to save them for April to September unless you live in a coastal town year-round.
