The Best Boat Shoes For Women
Boat shoes are a classic wardrobe staple. Designed to give you the traction you need when navigating wet and slippery boat decks, boat shoes aren't just for boats anymore. While they are still used by sailors when they head to the high seas, they're also a stylish footwear option for any occasion. Whether you want something to throw on with jeans while you're running errands or a traditional option to pair with your favorite sundresses, the right pair of boat shoes can instantly elevate any ensemble. We're here to help you find that pair.
What to Look For
When shopping for boat shoes, we suggest focusing on three essential qualities: the level of cushion, the quality of the materials, and the type of tread. With that in mind, we rounded up a few of our own favorites. Sperry’s bluefish boat shoes are a classic option for a reason: they’re a durable and reliable pair of shoes that you can wear out on the high seas or for any casual occasion. Amazon Essential’s boat shoes, on the other hand, aren’t as durable, but they deliver a similar look and feel as Sperry’s shoes at a fraction of the cost. Explore these and our other favorites to find your new favorite boat shoes.
Sperry Bluefish Boat Shoes
Cult classic
These boat shoes blend the best of form and function. The stylish shoe has a low-top design equally perfect for both a day on the water or an afternoon running errands. The water-resistant upper will keep your feet dry, and the adjustable laces allow you to get the perfect fit to maximize your comfort. Choose from a few different colors to find the perfect style to add to your wardrobe.
Pros:
- They’re available in both regular and wide sizes, so you can always find a comfortable fit.
- A memory-foam insole delivers amazing comfort. This means you won’t get fatigued as quickly when you’re on your feet all day.
Cons:
- They tend to take a while to break in.
Skechers Go Walk Lite 15430 Boat Shoes
This stylish design combines the best elements of sneakers with classic boat shoes. The interior is outfitted with Skechers’ signature insole, which provides amazing comfort for walking or standing all day. On the outside, the shoes feature a mix of leather and canvas for a fashionable blend that also is practical enough to spend some time on the high seas.
Pros:
- They tend to stretch a bit as you wear them, allowing them to contour perfectly to your feet for maximum comfort.
- A deep tread gives you sure footing even on wet surfaces, making them the ideal option for slippery boat decks.
Cons:
- The color of the fabric may look a bit darker in person than online.
Grasshoppers Canvas Boat Shoes
Foam sweet foam
Instead of the traditional leather style, these boat shoes are made from sturdy canvas for a more casual alternative. The low-top style is lightweight, breathable, and dries out quickly when wet. They’re also equipped with a deluxe memory foam footbed that keeps your feet cushioned, so it feels like you’re walking on a cloud. Choose from several stylish colors to find the perfect complement to your existing wardrobe.
Pros:
- You can remove the memory foam insole, giving you two ways to wear the shoes. That way, you can find the most comfortable option for you.
- The shoes run true to size, so you can feel confident ordering your typical size.
Cons:
- They tend to take a while to break in.
Sperry Crest Boat Shoes
High and dry
For a more fashionable approach, this pair of boat shoes incorporates stylish details. The cheetah-print suede fabric adds a subtle pop that infuses any look with some edge, and the platform sole is a modern take on the classic boat shoe style. Inside, they’re finished with a memory foam-cushioned insole for all-day comfort you can count on.
Pros:
- Because of the low-top style, they’re very easy to slip on and off. They’re the perfect shoes for when you’re on the go.
- You can wear these shoes all year long for an all-weather, all-season addition to your closet.
Cons:
- They tend to run large in size, so keep that in mind while ordering.
Amazon Essential Boat Shoes
Made from faux leather, these boat shoes look just as good as the real thing. The low-top style is the same cut as more expensive brands, and the cushioned insole and leather lining create a luxurious look and feel. Whether you need them for a day out on the water or just to wear them around town, they’re the perfect footwear solution for a range of occasions. They even come in a light shade that can easily transition from day to night for maximum versatility.
Pros:
- Because they’re made of faux leather, the shoes are very easy to keep clean. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth and they’ll look as good as new.
- The shoes have cushioned inserts that make them super comfortable to wear all day.
Cons:
- They may not hold up as well as genuine leather shoes in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do boat shoes stretch?
Many boat shoes are made of leather, which tends to stretch over time. Those made from synthetic materials, however, are less likely to stretch.
Should boat shoes be tight or loose?
Like all shoes, boat shoes should fit comfortably but not leave you with too much extra room. Because boat shoes get wet frequently, however, they are more likely to stretch out, so you can opt for a pair with a snug fit.
Are you meant to wear socks with boat shoes?
Boat shoes are designed to be worn without socks, though you can always wear them with socks if you prefer.
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