High-Top Boat Shoes: Men's Guide To Smart Casual Style

Boat shoes are a timeless classic that have been in and out of fashion since the 1930s. They are typically constructed from canvas or leather with non-marking rubber soles, designed for wear while sailing. They are a great option for warmer weather due to their low, below-the-ankle profile.

Boat shoes are versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them a staple in every fashion-conscious person's wardrobe. They go well with a variety of looks, from classic to casual to quirky. While they can be worn with simple outfits like jeans, shorts, and a button-down shirt, there are some style tips to keep in mind to avoid common mistakes.

Firstly, it is generally recommended to avoid wearing boat shoes with socks. If you do choose to wear socks, opt for invisible ankle socks or sock-ettes rather than calf-height crew socks. Secondly, when wearing boat shoes with pants, it is important to cuff or roll up the hems to create a relaxed and stylish look. Avoid pairing them with skinny pants or bootcut jeans, and instead go for a slim or regular fit.

When it comes to colours, boat shoes come in a variety of shades, but it is best to stick to versatile colours like navy, brown, or white. These colours tend to suit the style best and can be easily dressed up or down. For a more casual look, pair your boat shoes with chino shorts, linen shirts, or loose-fitting crew-neck t-shirts. For a dressier look, try wearing them with chinos, a pique polo, or a rugby-style top.

Boat shoes with jeans

Boat shoes are a versatile footwear option for men, pairing well with a variety of looks, from classic to casual to quirky. They are a great way to elevate a simple outfit of jeans and a t-shirt, instantly giving your look a classy and sophisticated edge.

When wearing boat shoes with jeans, it is recommended to cuff or roll up the hems of your jeans to create a more effortless, nautical look. This also helps to draw attention to the boat shoes, which is an important part of the outfit. For a smart-casual look, pair your jeans with a blazer and a fitted shirt. If you're going for a more relaxed, preppy style, try navy boat shoes. A plain t-shirt or jumper, or a stripy top, can also work well with boat shoes and jeans for a laid-back summer outfit.

The type of jeans you wear with boat shoes is important. Skinny jeans or bootcut jeans should be avoided, as they do not complement the shape of the shoe. Instead, opt for a slim or regular fit jean. Cuffing your jeans once or twice is enough to showcase your boat shoes; avoid excessive cuffing that makes your jeans look like capri pants. Faded or straight, plain denim jeans are a good choice to pair with boat shoes. Black jeans and boat shoes are also a great combination, perfect for a dressier event such as a date or an evening out.

When it comes to colours, brown or tan leather boat shoes are a popular choice, especially when paired with trousers. However, boat shoes come in a variety of colours and materials, so feel free to experiment. Just remember to keep the overall outfit simple and avoid multiplying the association of colours. Generally, an outfit consists of up to three colours.

Boat shoes with chinos

Boat shoes are a versatile footwear option for men, pairing well with a variety of outfits and suitable for a range of occasions. When it comes to wearing boat shoes with chinos, there are several stylish options to consider.

For a relaxed yet stylish look, a pair of charcoal quilted gilet and chinos can be paired with brown suede boat shoes. This combination is perfect for a casual outing or a day when you want to look put together but still feel comfortable. For a similar vibe, you could also try a grey varsity jacket with white chinos and grey suede boat shoes, or a mint field jacket with navy chinos and black leather boat shoes.

If you're after a more dressed-up look, you can still incorporate boat shoes into your outfit. An olive blazer and chinos can be dressed down with a pair of boat shoes, or for something more edgy, try an olive military jacket with chinos and black leather boat shoes. For a smart casual vibe, a simple button-down shirt, crew knit, tailored chinos, and boat shoes are a great combination.

When wearing boat shoes with chinos, it's important to pay attention to the fit of your trousers. Avoid skinny pants or bootcut jeans, as these will not work well with the boat shoes. Instead, opt for a slim or regular fit. Cuffing your chinos is also a good idea, as it adds to the casual feel of the outfit.

Boat shoes with shorts

Boat shoes are a great choice for men's footwear in the summer, and they go well with shorts. Here are some tips on how to wear boat shoes with shorts for a stylish and comfortable look:

Choose the Right Shorts:

When pairing boat shoes with shorts, opt for more tailored and plainer styles to balance out the look. Chino shorts are a perfect match for boat shoes, providing a smart casual vibe. Navy, beige, olive, and white shorts are all great colour choices that will complement your boat shoes. If you want to experiment with patterns, try stripes or checks.

Keep it Simple:

A simple, casual outfit with boat shoes can still be very dapper. A beige crew-neck sweater and olive shorts, for example, can be elevated with a pair of dark brown leather boat shoes. You can also try a white polo neck sweater, a beige double-breasted blazer, and navy shorts, finished with black leather boat shoes for a stylish and timeless look.

Go for a Nautical Theme:

As boat shoes have a nautical feel, you can lean into that style. Try a white polo shirt, navy chino shorts, and blue boat shoes for a classic, preppy outfit. A striped top or a sailor shirt can also be a great choice to emphasise the maritime theme.

Experiment with Colours:

Boat shoes come in various colours, and you can have fun mixing and matching. For a bold statement, try red boat shoes with white pants and a fitted beige shirt for a colourful and contrasting look. Beige boat shoes can add a bright touch to a dark outfit, such as a denim shirt and raw jeans. Green boat shoes with beige shorts and a white polo shirt create a cool, sophisticated ensemble.

No Socks:

The general rule with boat shoes is to avoid visible socks. No-show socks are a good option to maintain comfort without ruining the look. However, if you're feeling adventurous, you can go sockless, but be aware that this may cause blisters and odour issues, and it can damage the leather of your boat shoes.

Accessories:

Don't forget to accessorise! A hat, a cap, or a belt can complement your boat shoe and shorts ensemble. A pair of vintage sunglasses, for instance, can add a stylish touch to your summer outfit.

Boat shoes with socks

Boat shoes are a versatile footwear option, pairing well with a range of outfits, from casual to semi-formal and even formal looks. They are typically constructed from canvas or leather with non-marking rubber soles, designed for wear while sailing. When it comes to wearing boat shoes with socks, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, it is generally recommended to avoid wearing boat shoes with visible socks. This combination is often considered a fashion faux pas, akin to wearing socks with sandals. Instead, opt for invisible or no-show socks that sit below the ankle and won't be seen. These types of socks are designed to stay in place, providing a barrier between your feet and shoes, preventing blisters and reducing odour. No-show socks are available in a range of materials, including cotton, nylon, spandex, and polyester blends, and can be found at a variety of price points.

If you do choose to wear socks with your boat shoes, it is important to ensure they are well-hidden. This means avoiding calf-height or crew socks that will be visible above the shoe. Instead, opt for invisible ankle socks or "sock-ettes" that sit below the ankle line. Alternatively, you can go sockless, but be aware that this may cause blisters, odour, and sweat damage to your shoes.

When wearing boat shoes with socks, it is also important to consider the type of trousers or pants you pair them with. Boat shoes tend to work best with cuffed or rolled-up trousers, such as chino pants or jeans. Avoid skinny pants or bootcut jeans, as these can be too tight or loose around the calf, respectively. When cuffing your trousers, a simple single or double cuff is recommended; avoid excessive cuffing that can make your jeans look like capri pants.

Boat shoes with no socks

Boat shoes are a versatile footwear option for men, perfect for a range of casual occasions and events. They are a great choice for warmer weather due to their low, below-the-ankle profile and soft rubber soles. While boat shoes can be dressed up or down, it is generally advised to avoid pairing them with suits or formalwear.

When wearing boat shoes, it is important to consider the sock situation. While some people prefer to go sockless, this can lead to blisters, odour, and damage to the shoe's insole. It is recommended to opt for no-show socks or "sock-ettes" to maintain the sockless look while avoiding these issues. No-show socks are designed to be invisible, sitting below the ankle so that you can still flash some ankle. They also help to eliminate blisters and keep your feet dry and comfortable. Alternatively, you can go for a slightly more formal look with dress socks, which will still maintain a relaxed and casual vibe. It is best to avoid athletic socks with boat shoes, as this is considered a major style faux pas.

When wearing boat shoes without socks, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, be cautious of the potential health risks associated with going sockless. The warm, dark, and damp environment inside closed-toe shoes can be a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to issues such as athlete's foot. Secondly, boat shoes are known for being uncomfortable during the "breaking-in" phase, and going sockless can exacerbate this, leading to blisters and hotspots. Lastly, the sweat and moisture accumulated in the shoes can cause a persistent odour and even damage the insole.

To avoid these issues when going sockless, it is recommended to use products like baby powder, kitty litter, tea bags, or dryer sheets inside the shoes overnight to absorb moisture and odour. Additionally, when storing your boat shoes, keep them out of direct sunlight and avoid getting them drenched in water, as this can cause discolouration and changes in texture.

Frequently asked questions