Boat Shoes And Socks: Asian Style Guide

Boat shoes are a popular summer shoe, but what about socks? It's generally agreed that no-show socks are the best option to wear with boat shoes, as they help to avoid blisters and irritation, and prevent odours, without ruining the aesthetic of the shoe. Sperry, Boardroom Socks, and Tommy Hilfiger all offer suitable options. However, if you're wearing boat shoes with long trousers, calf-length socks are also acceptable.

No-show socks

When choosing no-show socks to wear with boat shoes, opt for neutral colours like white, black, or muted tones of grey and brown. Silicone grips on the interior can help to keep the socks in place and prevent them from slipping off your feet. Some popular brands that offer no-show socks include BOSS and Tommy Hilfiger.

While boat shoes are often worn without socks, no-show socks can provide added comfort and help keep your feet healthy by managing sweat and moisture. They are a functional choice, especially during the warm summer months when boat shoes are most commonly worn.

Boat shoes with jeans

Boat shoes are a versatile footwear option, pairing well with jeans, chinos, and shorts. They are a popular choice for men's casual footwear, especially in the summer.

When wearing boat shoes with jeans, it is recommended to cuff or roll up the hems to create a more effortless, nautical look and draw attention to the shoes. This combination can be styled with a plain t-shirt or jumper, a striped top for a sailor-inspired outfit, or a summer shirt for a smart-casual vibe.

For a more formal look, dark wash jeans and a blazer can be paired with boat shoes as a twist on business casual attire. It is generally advised to avoid wearing boat shoes with suits, as they are considered too casual for such a formal outfit.

While some prefer to wear boat shoes without socks, no-show socks or liners can be worn for added comfort and to maintain foot health. To achieve a preppy 80s style, crew socks in pastel or muted colours can be paired with jeans and boat shoes.

Boat shoes with shorts

Boat shoes are a classic casual shoe trend in the menswear world. They are incredibly comfortable and stylish, giving off a relaxed, preppy image. They are perfect for maritime activities, travel, the office, and dates.

When wearing boat shoes with shorts, it is important to ensure that the shoes and shorts complement each other. A detailed, attention-grabbing boat shoe should be paired with plainer, more tailored shorts. The boat shoes and shorts combo is perfect for summertime.

• A multi-coloured print polo with olive shorts and dark brown leather boat shoes.
• A beige crew-neck sweater with olive shorts and dark brown leather boat shoes.
• An orange raincoat with grey vertical striped shorts and dark brown leather boat shoes.
• A white polo-neck sweater, a beige double-breasted blazer, navy shorts, and black leather boat shoes.
• A beige crew-neck sweater with an olive denim jacket, white shorts, and black leather boat shoes.

When wearing boat shoes with shorts, it is generally recommended to avoid visible socks as it can ruin the look. Instead, opt for no-show socks or crew-cut socks in muted, pastel colours.

Boat shoes with suits

Boat shoes are a well-known summer staple, and are incredibly comfortable and stylishly casual, giving off a relaxed, preppy image. They are commonly worn by boaters and non-boaters alike, both for functional and aesthetic reasons.

Boat shoes are purely casual footwear and should not be paired with a suit. They are lace-up shoes, with razor-cut soles to provide better grip, and are often worn without socks to achieve the sockless" look. However, if you are going to wear socks, opt for no-show socks or dress socks. No-show socks are low-cut socks intended to be "invisible" when worn with boat shoes, helping to eliminate blisters and irritation while keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Dress socks, on the other hand, provide a slightly more formal look while still maintaining a relaxed and casual feel.

If you want to wear boat shoes with a more formal outfit, it is recommended to pair them with dark wash denim and a blazer for an interesting twist on business casual, or with a casual, lightweight, or linen suit. You can also try pairing them with a grey slim-fitting suit, a light blue striped shirt, and a brown leather braided belt, or with a blue suit and a white linen long-sleeve shirt.

While boat shoes are versatile in the casual space, it is important to remember that they do not pair well with a formal suit. If you want to dress up your boat shoes, consider opting for dark wash denim and a blazer instead of a full suit.

Boat shoes with chinos

Boat shoes are a timeless classic in the world of menswear, and they go incredibly well with chinos. But if you want to look more "yacht owner" and less "reliving college", there are some things to keep in mind.

Firstly, let's talk about colour. Boat shoes are typically made from water-resistant materials like leather with soft rubber soles, or canvas, which is a less water-resistant but quicker-drying alternative. When it comes to colour, a contrast between your chinos and boat shoes is key. Try pairing taupe chinos with a navy or dark brown boat shoe, or if you want to stand out, go for brightly coloured chinos with a neutral-hued shoe. For a more relaxed, preppy look, navy boat shoes are a great option.

Now, let's discuss the outfit as a whole. Boat shoes and chinos are a match made in heaven, but to complete the look, consider the rest of your outfit. A polo shirt for the daytime or a long-sleeved, buttoned-down shirt for the evening will give you that preppy perfection. If you're going for a more casual vibe, a plain t-shirt or jumper will do the trick. And don't forget, boat shoes are meant to be seen, so make sure your trousers are tapered, cropped, or rolled up slightly to show off those laces and stitching.

Lastly, let's not forget about socks. While most people choose to wear boat shoes without socks, you can always add invisible socks or shoe liners for added comfort while maintaining that classic sockless look. If you're channelling a more preppy '80s style, experiment with white crew socks or graphic sports socks for an on-trend update. But remember, visible socks with boat shoes are usually a big no-no.

Frequently asked questions