Undeniably, the boat shoe is among the most comfortable and timeless pairs of shoes you will ever own. So, how do you get your hands on the best boat shoes? We are about to find that out so you may want to keep it here.
Good Shoes for Boating: Comparison List
They come in different shapes, colors, and sizes. One thing is for sure, though – some boating shoes are better made than others. Here’s a quick look at 15 of them.
| Ranking | Name | Size | Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sperry Mens A/O 2-Eye Boat Shoe | 6.5 Wide | Sahara |
| 2 | Sperry Mens Billfish 3-Eye Boat Shoe | 8 Wide | Dark Tan |
| 3 | Sebago Men’s Docksides Boat Shoe | 8 | White |
| 4 | crocs Men’s Santa Cruz 2 Luxe M Slip-On Loafer | 10 | Khaki/Khaki |
| 5 | Bruno Marc Men’s Fashion Sneakers | 10 | 01/Grey |
| 6 | Margaritaville Men’s Anchor Lace Boat Shoe | 9 Wide | Light Tan |
| 7 | Timberland Men’s Classic 2-Eye Boat Shoe | 7 | Navy Smooth |
| 8 | Sperry Mens Mako 2-Eye Boat Shoe | 8 | Tan |
| 9 | Rockport Men’s Perth Shoe | 6 | Beeswax/Dark Brown |
| 10 | Dockers Men’s Castaway Boat Shoe | 8 | Tan |
1. Sperry Men’s Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe
This fantastic pair of shoes is one of the top-rated men’s shoes that are specially designed for use when taking a boat ride.
In terms of its design, this pure leather shoe has elegant moccasin stitch toe, slotted collar, and rust-resistant eyelets.
In addition to that, it has a slip-resistant rubber sole that helps to minimize the chances of slip accidents on wet and dry surfaces due to its remarkable traction.
Key Features
High quality leather construction with no outer marking sole are some of the outstanding features of this innovative shoe.
Besides that, it’s designed with EVA cup that provides a cushion to the feet to offer a long-lasting comfort due to its authentic hand-sewn TruMoc design.
And on top of that, it has a shaft that measures low-top from the arch.
Pros
- Durable pure leather construction
- Has cushioned EVA heel cup
- Elegant hand-sewn design
- Non-marking outer rubber sole.
Cons
- Narrower than the preceding versions
2. Sperry Men’s Billfish 3-Eye Boat Shoe
This 100% leather shoe is one of the best footwear that gives comfort and confidence while on water.
It features an anti-slip rubber sole, and a molded cushion midsole made up of EVA to keep your underfoot comfortable.
Also, this premium shoe has a 360-degree lacing system and also has rustproof eyelets to enhance a secure fit.
Key Features
One of the outstanding features of this stylish pair is the authentic hand-sewn construction, which incorporates a padded tongue for long-lasting comfort.
Besides that, it features breathable upper panels and a shock-absorbing heel cup made of Eva to add an extra layer of comfort around your foot.
And on top of that, it has a wave-sipping rubber outsole for dry or wet traction and comes in diverse colors and sizes that you can choose from.
Pros
- Anti-slip rubber sole
- Durably constructed with 100% leather
- Features a breathable mesh
- Padded tongue
- Rustproof eyelets
Cons
- A bit costly
3. Sebago Men’s Docksides Boat Shoe
This is yet another men’s shoe that is durably constructed to last long into the future while offering unbeatable service.
In terms of its construction, this footwear boasts of 100% high quality leather. As such, you can use it for a couple of years without needing replacement due to wear out.
Better yet, it has a stylish design featuring moc-toe stitching and rawhide lacing around the collar.
Key Features
One of the fantastic features of this designer shoe is the anti-slip non-marking outer sole coupled with a molded insole made of comfortable EVA foam.
Not to mention, it’s designed with a tough outer pure leather that protects your feet. The 100% leather exterior construction does not only work for foot protection but also extends the longevity of the shoe.
Pros
- 100% exterior leather construction
- Soft padded interior
- Has EVA form molded insole
- Non-slip outer rubber sole
- Available in a variety of sizes and colors
Cons
- Has less padding
4. Crocs Men’s Santa Cruz 2 Luxe Loafer
This 100% synthetically made loafer is one of the stylish shoes that you can wear when preparing to ride around on the water body.
I addition to that, this pair of shoes is highly versatile due to its more refined synthetic material and a democratic look.
As such, you can use the shoe in your daily activities throughout the day and night, both in-office and out of the office.
Another plus with this shoe lies in its easiness to put on and off due to its slip-on style.
Also, it’s comfy inside and offers a sink-in softness with a bounce-back of resilient Croslite material.
Key Features
It has a lightweight construction featuring ultra-lightweight canvas on the upper side and a soft memory on the top of the croslite foam base.
In addition to that, it has a built-in Crocs comfort that makes them extremely safe and suitable for traveling.
And on top of that, this pair is suitable for any guy whom it fits comfortably, regardless of age or size.
Pros
- High quality and durable synthetic construction
- It’s lightweight and available in many colors
- Easy to put on and slip out of the feet
- Soft patted inside with a comfy insole
- Highly versatile in use
Cons
- Has no half sizes
5. Bruno Marc Men’s Fashion Sneakers
This is one of the best boat shoes designed by Bruno Marc to offer exceptional comfort to the boat-loving buddies.
If you’re looking for a soft, lightweight, and comfortable shoe, then this might be what you need to enjoy those long boat rides.
Not to mention, it’s available in a myriad of colors from which you can’t miss your preferred color and size.
On top of that, this shoe is designed comfy insole and a flexible outer sole to offer more comfort to your feet.
Key Features
It’s a fantastic men’s shoe made in the USA with high quality textile material a flexible rubber sole. In addition to that, it has a cushioned inner sole for exceptional comfort.
Also, it’s lightweight and features a rubber sole stitching vamp. And it has a heel height of approximately 0.5 inches.
Lastly, it comes in grey color but also available in various colors such as black, brown, navy, white, tan, and red.
Pros
- Durably constructed top quality fabric
- Lightweight design
- Cheaply priced
- Cushioned inner sole
- Available in a myriad of colors
Cons
- It has a low arch
6. Margaritaville Men’s Anchor Lace Boat Shoe.
This imported men’s leather shoe is among the best picks that are worth checking out.
It has an innovative design that integrates air mesh on the sides of the leather exterior to provide comfort and cooling effect during hot weather.
Not to mention, this leather-made shoe provides a soft and comfortable surface underfoot due to the molded EVA midsole.
It can go without saying that this premium quality shoe also features a non-marking rubber sole with effective traction on both the wet and dry surface. As such, you’ll always be safe from slip-fall accidents.
Key Features
It’s designed with a leather upper, rubber outsole and air mesh top to keep your foot conditioned and well protected. In addition to that, it features rustproof eyelets and a 360-degree lacing system to make it fit securely.
Also, it features authentic Truc-moc construction and also includes padded tongue for a long-lasting effort.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Improved traction due to the rubber sole
- Constructed with breathable mesh
- Stylish in design
Cons
- Only suitable for warmer weather
7. Timberland Men’s Classic 2-Eye Boat Shoe
It’s yet another 100% leather shoe designed for men that you can purchase. Going without saying, this timberland classic men’s boot.
If you’re looking for a trail-ready and stylish outlook, Timberland has you covered. The boots are sturdy for rainy weather, hiking, work, and casual wear.
Not to mention, the boots are made through the highest craftmanship to achieve the stylish look and the highest degree of versatility.
Key Features
It’s durably constructed with 100% leather material, air mesh, and rubber sole through the highest quality artistry to achieve the state-of-the-art design.
On top of that, this top-rated shoe features a premium full-grain waterproof leather top that’s seam-sealed to keep your feet comfortable and dry in wet conditions.
Apart from that, it features air mesh that makes it breathable, rustproof, and has a speed lace designed top hooks to allow for secure lacing.
Pros
- Highly comfortable and durable
- Waterproof construction
- Features rubber sole
- Breathable
- Highly versatile
Cons
- Some customers do not like it
8. Sperry Men’s Mako 2-Eye Boat Shoe
It’s one of the superb boat shoes that highly runs out of stock. It’s specially designed with a dual-density bottom and cushion mid-sole as well as cushioned inner sole for increased comfort of your feet.
As if that’s not enough, it features padded color and tongue. Moreover, it incorporates heels constructed with shock-absorbing EVA for additional comfort.
And on top of that, it has a high quality non-marking outer sole with wave-sipping, which are razor-cut to improve traction.
Key Features
It’s designed with 100% pure leather with a rubber sole, dual-bottom density and soft inner sole for an added layer of comfort.
As if that’s not enough, it features soft padded collar and tongue, and shock-absorbing heels made of high quality EVA. This provides the needed comfort to enjoy your activities. Moreover, it’s designed with 360-degree and eyelets that are water-proof.
Lastly, it features a high traction outer sole that ensures you’re safe from slip and fall accidents in both dry and wet conditions.
Pros
- Durably constructed with high quality materials
- Shock-absorbing heels
- Has s non-marking rubber sole
- Padded collar and tongue
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Has less padding
9. Rockport Men’s Perth
This classic shoe for boat riding boasts of its casual nautical flair that makes it simple to put on and wear down.
With its textured rubber sole in combination with the upper decorative lacing, this shoe allows smooth navigation across virtually all surfaces.
Apart from that, the shoes are available in multiple colors and sizes from which you can select your perfect fit.
Key Features
It’s designed with 100% full-grain leather that makes it last long into the future without wearing out.
Based on its unique design, it features two eyelets coupled with a slotted color. In addition to that, it has a high-quality synthetic sole.
More interestingly, these innovative shoes are highly durable and available in a myriad of shades and sizes from which you can find your type.
Pros
- Durable full-grain leather construction
- Available in diverse color and sizes
- Attractive design
- Easy to put on and pull off
Cons
- The shoes are somehow rugged
10. Dockers Men’s Castaway Boat Shoe
It’s a skillfully made men’s leather shoe featuring a smooth leather-made upper surface and a 360-degree lacing.
In addition to that, it boasts a high quality rubber outer sole that gives high traction on both wet and dry surfaces.
Better yet, it features innovative stitching on the moc-toe, which gives an authentic and attractive appearance that you may like.
Key Features
This traditional footwear is one of the most cherished shoes for riding in boats due to its fantastic features.
It’s designed with 100% leather-made upper and an outer high quality rubber for improved traction on any surface.
Also, it features two eyelet lacing compounded with slotted color. And on top of that, the shoe is available in other different colors and sizes. As such, it wouldn’t be easy to miss your exact size and color.
Pros
- Durably constructed with pure leather
- Attractively designed
- Has a high grip rubber sole
- Available in a wide range of sizes and color
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Some buyers do not like the dull color
11. Dunham Men’s Captain Boat Shoe
Looking for the best shoe to keep your feet safe and comfortable when aboard your boat? This is one of the selections designed explicitly for that purpose.
Moving swiftly, it comes with some of the most exciting features, such as the upper leather construction for extended durability.
In addition to that, it has a rubber exterior sole with improved traction on both dry and wet surfaces. As if that’s not enough, you can also use these classic shoes for other outdoor activities such as hiking.
Key Features
One of the distinctive features of this shoe is its removable memory foam footrest and molded Eva that makes up the inner sole.
Besides that, it features upper leather, non-marking rubber sole, light-weight mid-sole made of Eva, and heel height of 1.5 inches.
Pros
- Durably constructed with rubber
- Can be used for many occasions
- Available in extended sizes
- Designed with rubber
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some buyers find the shoe to be narrow
12. Dockers Men’s Vargas Leather Handsewn Boat Shoe
It’s yet another designer shoes with a high degree of flexibility when it comes to its use. With its authentic hand-sewn stitch look, this shoe comes with a unique beauty that makes it stand out.
Besides that, it’s designed with the soft leather upper side and siped outer rubber sole for increased traction on any surface.
In addition to that, it features a molded EVA heel cup as well as a soft footbed that increases comfort when putting on the shoes for long hours.
Key Features
This shoe is made up of a combination of upper-made of soft leather, siped rubber sole, Eva cushioned inner sole and molded EVA heel cup. Also, it features 2-eyelet for optimum use.
On top of that, it’s rust in color but available in other different colors and sizes.
Pros
- Attractive hand-sewn design
- Highly durable rubber construction
- A cushioned footbed and heel cap
- High traction rubber sole
Cons
- Has a thin tongue
13. Timberland Men’s Piper Cove Fg Boat Shoe
Whether you want to use it on land or sea, this shoe is a perfect fit. It has a design featuring a rubber sole for improved traction.
Also, it has a superior upper made of leather and fabric for increased longevity. In addition to that, this high quality shoe is versatile. As such, you can use it for various outdoor occasions such as hiking and much more.
Other than that, it comes in Jet Black oiled Nabuk but also available in different colors, thereby allowing you to choose your perfect fit.
Key Features
One of the outstanding features of this shoe is its hybrid construction featuring leather and textile.
In addition to that, it’s designed with a rubber sole for providing the highest traction needed to perform various activities.
And on top of that, this shoe is stylish and perfect for any outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Durably constructed textile, leather, and the sole
- Versatile
- Attractive
- Easy to wear and remove from the feed.
Cons
- The cushioned inner sole extends halfway.
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14. Lacoste Men’s Dreyfus Fashion Sneaker
This is one of the highly durable rubber shoes that you can comfortably use with confidence due to its skillful design.
It has a rubber outsole made up of a 100% leather upper to makes it go a long way in the future. In addition to that, it has a slotted collar, lace-up vamp, and perforated quarter featuring a logo patch.
Also, it has brand callouts on the counter, tongues, and outsole rubber.
Key Features
Since durability, safety, and comfort are among the crucial vital features or any premium quality shoes, this brand scores it right.
It features a leather sole upper and a rubber outsole for increased traction when walking on bot wet and dry surfaces. As such, this shoe is also great for use when carrying out other activities on land.
And on top of that, it features a slotted collar, lace-up vamp and quarters that are perforated.
Pros
- Made up with high quality materials
- Has rubber sole for increased traction
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Has available in only three colors
15. Sanuk Men’s Casa Barco Boat Shoe
This shoe is made up of 100% high quality textile that makes it not only attractive but also durable.
If you’re an enthusiast of canvas shoes and looking forward to adding one into your collection, then this might be an option.
More interestingly, you can wear it with or without using laces.
Key Features
It features a genuine vulcanization rubber sole with canvas made upper, removable EVA innersole for maximum comfort.
It features a comfortable footbed made up of EVA, and AEGIS anti-microbial additive that makes it unique from other competitive brands.
Pros
- Durable textile construction
- High quality rubber sole
- Premium EVA footbed
- Available in multiple colors and sizes.
Cons
- May wear out quickly
How to Pick the Best Boat Shoes
You need to consider several factors when selecting boat shoes but here are the three main ones.
Shoe Material
Boat shoes come in various materials including canvas, suede, and leather with each having its advantages and disadvantages.
Leather is quite costly and comes in limited colors but ages gracefully.Suede comes in numerous colors and is easier to maintain but is not as durable as leather.
Whatever material you choose will rely on your personal preferences and budget but do keep durability in mind.
Sole Traction
Traction is an important factor to consider especially if you will be spending a lot of time walking on wet surfaces.
The last thing you want is a shoe without traction allowing you to slip and fall.
Shoe Size
It is important to pick the right shoe size for your comfort. If the shoes are too big, you will have trouble walking with them and getting a firm grip on the ground.
On the other hand, if they are too small, your feet will get hurt. A good shoe should have ample room for your feet and leave a little space at the back of your feet and the top of your toe.
The best way to get the right fit is by measuring your feet and using the dimensions against a sizing chart.
Frequently Asked Questions
We expect a question or two in respect to this topic and that is why we have taken it upon ourselves to answer a few commonly asked ones.
Will boat shoes stretch ?
It depends on the material of the shoe. For instance, leather will stretch over time so you may want to slightly size up.
Synthetic material will not stretch so stick to your size when purchasing such.
Are boat shoes waterproof ?
Not really, waterproof, but they are water friendly. This means they are less likely to be damaged when exposed to water.
After all, they were initially created for slippery decks.
How should boat shoes fit ?
It is important to get the correct size boat shoe. First, ensure that there is about half an inch of space between your big toe and the top of the shoe when you stand.
Another thing is that the ball of your foot should fit into the broadest area of the shoe without any issue. You want to walk around with the shoes on to verify if they are too tight or too loose before purchasing them.
Our Best Pick
According to our analysis, the Sperry Men’s Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoes seem like the best shoe of all time.
It’s durably constructed with a leather upper, high quality rubber outsole, and shock absorbing heel cut made of EVA material for maximum comfort.
On top of that, the outer rubber sole provides high traction while on any surface you’re walking on.
If you’re looking for durable, comfortable, and stylish shoes for putting on while in your boat, then this Sperry-made shoe is worth a second look.
Final Thoughts
If you are fashion forward, you know that boat shoes are a timeless staple that cannot be replaced. These shoes ooze class and are designed to withstand wet conditions so you do not need to worry about exposing them to water.
We have done our part by putting together this guide so picking the right shoe should not be a problem.