It may seem obvious, but the "boat" component of "boat shoes" that are made of leather typically used for men is not prescriptive. You are not required to wear them only on little motorized islands or in international waters, despite what the "boat" part of "boat shoes" may imply. Despite the fact that they make a beautiful aesthetic coupling with a teak deck, they are just as well suited to being worn on land as they are on the water. Paul S. Sperry, a man from Connecticut, is credited with inventing the boat shoe for men, which is essentially a loafer shoe type. Sperry got the idea for siping (fine slits cut into the rubber sole) his shoes from observing how his dog's feet were clinging on the ice. The laces traverse the heel for a 360-degree lace-up, which ensures that they won't fly off the deck in high gusts. Additionally, the siped, soft sole ensures that you won't fly off the deck in high winds. These are the two distinctive features. Boat shoes are historically ideal for laid-back summer styling; they are an extra pared down option to more formal summer shoe styles such as the leather loafer, Oxford, or Derby. However, there are a few unconventional pieces on this list, which demonstrates that boat shoes have more year-round versatility than just sun, sea, and slippy surfaces.
- THE CHURCHES':
Church's should be your first port of call if you are in the market for shoes made of perfect leather because the company is driven by tradition and has a history that dates back hundreds of years. The upper of these Marske boat shoes is made of jet black leather, and the only contrast is provided by the sloped sole, which is white. This minimalistic approach to the traditional silhouette was taken by Marske. You can rest assured that this is a pair that will look great both on land and in the water.
- THE TIMBERLANDS:
This pair of shoes from Timberland combines the best aspects of both the sneaker and boat shoe styles to produce a summer shoe that is one of a kind and has a touch of a nautical vibe to it. The shoes are stitched like sneakers but are worn like boat shoes. In profile, this pair may have the impression of a casual, trainer-like shoe due to the silky blue suede panelling and a breathable mesh upper; however, when viewed from the front, there is nothing but that distinctive boat shoe vitality. Climb aboard.
- POLO RALPH LAUREN:
The suede upper, large stitching, rawhide laces, and rubber sole of these otherwise delightfully traditional Ralph Lauren deck shoes feature a pair of metallic grilled breathing holes that are intended to give your foot an increased chance of being comfortable in the heat. Which is precisely when you should put these warm-weather companions to use: when the temperature is high.
- KICKERS:
Wallflowers, you might want to avert your attention. These boat shoes by Kickers are not for the faint of heart because of their big, bold, and sunflower yellow color scheme. This pair, which features the thick, treaded sole and round toe combination that has become the brand's signature, will quite literally take your outfits to the next level as the warm weather approaches.
- GRENSON:
When the derby and the boat shoe collided. The Sheldon boat shoes from Grenson have a hybridized silhouette that is cut from the brand's brand-new water-conserving eco suede. These shoes are soft in both shade and construction, and they will offer a laid-back slant to your seasonal wardrobe.
- DUNE:
These boat shoes by Dune are quite breathable and have a rather elegant look to them. They lie at the crossroads of form and function. This pair, which features a breathable knit upper, has been developed with ease of wear as its primary focus. It is finished with a striped rubber sole in the form of a sneaker for a look that is casual and appropriate for everyday wear. Just slip them on and go about your day.
- JONES BOOTMAKER:
There is no need to go any farther than these Philadelphia boat shoes from Jones Bootmaker for the contemporary minimalist. This pair of shoes, which has a grained brown leather upper and a brown leather sole, exudes a traditional vibe while also having a touch of a laid-back and louche Italian flavor. They are the ideal choice for anchoring vacation looks.
- CLARKS:
When you used to visit a Clarks store on the high street for the annual selection of durable school shoes, the high-street brand is now home to a steady stock of dashing menswear jewels with price tags that are more wallet-friendly. This pair of shoes, with its understated color scheme of navy and chestnut, exudes an impression of timeless elegance with each and every step.
- SPERRY:
Is it conceivable that the Croc and the boat shoe had an affair and had a child together? Rhetorical question, but by golly, aren't we happy that they did? In addition to being completely useful, they are buoyant in water, dry up very quickly, don't weigh much, and have a good grip. They also have an unexpectedly streamlined appearance.
- BARBOUR:
These Barbour boat shoes are a tough spin on a menswear staple; they feature a sturdy, utilitarian-inspired design that will give your look an edge. This pair of shoes is undeniably daring and cutting edge; they are constructed from supple brown leather and rest above a treaded commando sole. When it comes to fashion, you should go for an understated pair of pants in a natural color and let your boat shoes do all the talking.
- QUODDY:
Maine-based Quoddy is a brand that takes great pride in its craftsmanship, as each pair of shoes is crafted by hand using tried-and-true techniques and high-quality components. A particularly preppy pair for your summer rotation, this pair is crafted from high-quality navy leather and features rubber laces in the same hue. Put on your best chinos and a polo shirt to look like you've put in some extra work.