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The 20 Best Boat Shoes for Men, Tested by Style Experts

For seafarers and landlubbers alike.

By Maverick Li
Reviewed by Christian GollayanDeputy Editor, Commerce
Tested by Ted Stafford
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Courtesy of retailers

AHOY THERE! Looking for shoes to conquer the high seas or simply stroll along the shore? Boat shoes have you covered. These classic nautical wonders are not just for sailors—the best boat shoes are waterproof, have a grippy outsole to prevent slipping, and of course look great with your favorite swim trunks, shorts, or summer pants. That's why the best boat shoes for men are go-to summer shoes for active guys who spend a lot of time outdoors.

Function-wise, the best boat shoes for men should have grippy outsoles with razor siping for traction on wet decks, and shock-absorbent midsoles or footbeds for on-the-go comfort. Many are also water shoes meant for surviving salty waves or any wet condition. But it doesn't stop there, mateys: the best boat shoes should also work comfortably on land for any impromptu dockside activities or just a walk around town. All in all, the best boat shoes will have you sailing through life with panache.

  • Authentic Original™ Boat Shoe

    The OG Boat Shoes

    Sperry Authentic Original™ Boat Shoe

    $60 at Amazon
    Read more
  • Atlantic Moc Toe Boat Shoe

    Best everyday boat shoes

    Florsheim Atlantic Moc Toe Boat Shoe

    Read more
  • Tree Skipper Shoes for Men

    Best Athletic Boat Shoes

    Allbirds Tree Skipper Shoes for Men

    Read more
  • Authentic Original Float Boat Shoe

    Best water boat shoes

    Sperry Authentic Original Float Boat Shoe

    Read more
  • 4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoe

    Most comfortable boat shoes

    Cole Haan 4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoe

    Read more

Read more: Learn How Men's Health Tests Products

From slip-on shoes to lace-up styles to modern hybrids, we’ve done our own testing on dozens of boat shoes, as well as spoken to experts such as Fashion Director Ted Stafford to find the 20 best boat shoes for men that can be worn all seasons long. Bon voyage.

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The 10 Absolute Best Boat Shoes for Men

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The OG Boat Shoes

Sperry Authentic Original™ Boat Shoe

Authentic Original™ Boat Shoe
The OG Boat Shoes

Sperry Authentic Original™ Boat Shoe

Now 46% Off
$60 at Amazon$110 at Sperry$119 at Walmart
Pros
  • 360-degree lacing system for a customized fit
  • Ortholite® cushioning
  • Lightweight and flexible for everyday wear
  • Grippy outsole great for seaside or seafaring activities
Cons
  • Fit might stretch over time and become loose

Cutting to the chase is the OG design that has never looked out of style and definitely never will. In fact, we believe that every man should try on this seaworthy style that has remained so popular for decades because they're just so comfy, you'll want to wear them all the time. The leather, for instance, is meticulously hand-sewn for enhanced durability and graceful aging. As you slip your feet into them, you'll also find yourself reveling in the secure, customized fit provided by the signature 360° lacing system. The tried-and-true outsole with razor-cut wave-sipping also offers unrivaled traction for true seafarers.

What we love most about these OGs is that they now come with an OrthoLite insole to envelop your underfoot in comfort and provide shock absorption to each step. Coupled with the inclusion of an EVA heel cup that adds an extra layer of cushioning, we were even able to travel in these shoes for hours.

A wise word, however: while we found Sperry's boat shoes effortlessly easy to break in, they do tend to stretch ever so slightly with each wear. Therefore, we warn against sizing up here for these.

UpperLeather
OutsoleRubber
Best everyday boat shoes

Florsheim Atlantic Moc Toe Boat Shoe

Atlantic Moc Toe Boat Shoe
Best everyday boat shoes

Florsheim Atlantic Moc Toe Boat Shoe

Now 24% Off
Pros
  • High rebound foam offers support and cushioning to your feet
  • Suedetec lining that doesn't rub on or irritate the skin
  • Leather breaks in easily and fits snug
  • Versatile look
Cons
  • Not for in-water activities

These boat shoes combine timeless aesthetics with modern features, and we were impressed by both their everyday performance and luxurious feel. Firstly, the smooth and plush linings caress your feet while ensuring a snug fit, and the fully cushioned footbed blessed with OrthoLite® high rebound foam offers unparalleled all-day comfort and flexibility. In our walking test, we found that each step is cushioned and supported by their footbed, ensuring our feet stay fatigue-free.

In addition, the lightweight and durable EVA sole provides optimal traction and stability, making these boat shoes perfect for both on-deck activities and casual outings. All in all, we love how you can confidently navigate various terrains with ease in these while still embracing a timeless summer style.

UpperLeather
OutsoleRubber
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Best Athletic Boat Shoes

Allbirds Tree Skipper Shoes for Men

Tree Skipper Shoes for Men
Best Athletic Boat Shoes

Allbirds Tree Skipper Shoes for Men

Pros
  • Stylish in all types of everyday wear
  • Moisture-wicking and odor-reducing upper
  • Machine washable
  • Supremely lightweight
Cons
  • Not the authentic boat shoe style

If you're new to the boat shoe game and don't want to quite commit to Sperry-levels of preppiness, these are a happy medium. We were blown away by how comfortable and athletic they are with the look of a sneaker, but the level of ventilation, structure, and durability you need to hit the beach. The fabric also has both moisture-wicking and odor-reducing properties to keep your feet cool and dry. The brand's proprietary knit feels silky smooth on the skin and is breathable so you'll stay fresh throughout the journey.

Designed for everyday wear, The Tree Skipper's cushioned sole really impressed us with its comfort as well as flexibility that mimics the natural movement of your feet. Style-wise, we love that whether you're running errands or exploring new horizons, these shoes will nicely fit into your wardrobe.

UpperEucalyptus tree fiber
OutsoleRubber
Best water boat shoes

Sperry Authentic Original Float Boat Shoe

Authentic Original Float Boat Shoe
Best water boat shoes

Sperry Authentic Original Float Boat Shoe

Now 72% Off
Pros
  • Perfect for in-water and nautical activities
  • Breathable holes for drainage
  • Wave-Siping sole for wet/dry traction
Cons
  • Looks a bit tacky and gimmicky

It's no secret you'd be seeing Sperry at least a couple of times in this guide, but to those who have yet to discover their water shoe styles, we recommend checking them out. Our Fashion Director says that these are perfect for going in the water and enjoying getting your feet wet, yet protecting against rocks.

In our testing, we were impressed by its strong grip, courtesy of the brand's non-marking outsole with molded Wave-Siping™ tech. The holes placed on the upper and the sides are, you guessed it, perfect for draining the water out as well as for breathability. Fit-wise, we love its snugness due to the dynamic upper, but over time it does get loosened up a bit so we recommend sizing down a half.

UpperLeather
OutsoleRubber
Most comfortable boat shoes

Cole Haan 4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoe

4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoe
Most comfortable boat shoes

Cole Haan 4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoe

Now 18% Off
Pros
  • Shock-absorbing footbed that provides rebound and relieves stress
  • Upper is breathable and easy to break in
  • Grippy, sturdy outsole that's great for wet and dry conditions
  • Drainage system in place
Cons
  • The sole gets dirty real quick

Cole Haan again hits it out of the park on everyday comfort and versatility with these modern, sporty-looking boat shoes that are suitable for life on and off the water. Featuring a breathable mesh upper, these shoes offer excellent ventilation and quick drying capabilities. In fact, the nylon-based mesh not only keeps your feet comfortable but also breaks in soon as you slip in your feet to take the guesswork out of the fit. The Anchortrac™ outsole, on the other hand, is specifically engineered to keep you steady on your feet, whether you're on a boat or exploring the beach.

And, worried about water getting in? Don't be. These are also water shoes with a drainage system to accelerate water removal—no more soggy shoes slowing you down. And the brand's signature GRANDFØAM footbed absorbs shock and provides rebound with each step to keep your feet refreshed and energetic throughout your voyage.

UpperNylon mesh
OutsoleRubber
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Best hybrid boat shoes

SWIMS Braided Lace Loafer

Braided Lace Loafer
Best hybrid boat shoes

SWIMS Braided Lace Loafer

Pros
  • Ventilation and drainage system in place to keep your feet cool and dry
  • Moisture-wicking fabric
  • Sole with specially crafted treads to enhance grip and stability
Cons
  • A bit pricey

These are driving loafers moonlighting as boat shoes, and we love it. Featuring a ventilation and drainage system on the upper and sides, these shoes ensure optimal breathability and moisture management, making them perfect for swimming, pool parties, and generally any summer activity that involves water. The breathable fabric wicks away sweat and moisture as well while being able to withstand light rain or wet conditions.

In our experience of wearing water shoes, we pay extra attention to the outsoles to see if they're actually grippy, and the non-marking rubber here really impressed us with specially crafted treads that enhance grip and stability on slippery surfaces. Offering a true-to-size, no-breaking-in-needed fit, we recommend these boat shoes for avid travelers, city commuters, or outdoorsy adventurers in general who like to get wet.

Read more: Best Loafers for Men

UpperMesh fabric
OutsoleRubber
Best premium boat shoes

Adelante Nautico Boat Shoe

Nautico Boat Shoe
Best premium boat shoes

Adelante Nautico Boat Shoe

Pros
  • High-quality leather that is easy to break in and ages well
  • Soft lining ensures comfort, even without socks
  • Lightweight build
  • Memory foam footbed for all-day cushioning
Cons
  • Expensive

Step aboard the epitome of style and ethical craftsmanship with these premium boat shoes. We were impressed by how well these are built for both strolling down the shore as well as walking in the city for hours on end. The attention to detail in craftsmanship really sets them apart and makes them worth the splurge: the calfskin lining offers a level of softness that feels like a gentle hug for your feet, and we found the leather upper easy to break in and will age gracefully.

Performance-wise, we love its lightweight construction and snug fit that molds to every step. The high-density memory foam insoles provide all-day cushioning, so you can wear them for long adventures as well. Plus, the Goodyear welted construction means they're built to last.

UpperLeather
OutsoleLeather, rubber
Best casual boat shoes

Clark Higley Tie

Higley Tie
Best casual boat shoes

Clark Higley Tie

Now 49% Off
Pros
  • Soft, breathable upper perfect for no-sock wear
  • Build molds to your feet for a customized fit
  • Grippy outsole
Cons
  • Not much cushioning—not great for long walking

Set sail for summer style with these Clarks boat shoes that are as close to going barefoot as you can get without, well, going barefoot. Crafted with a breathable textile upper, the Higley Tie allows your feet to stay cool and fresh, perfect for those scorching summer days. We love how the outer of the shoes naturally contours to the shape of our foot, ensuring a customized fit that feels like an extension of yourself.

But the true game-changer lies within the EVA footbed which we found to be able to deliver all-day comfort. Each step feels effortless, and the textile linings provide an added layer of softness. While in a casual style, we also were impressed by the grippy outsole sole which ensures stability and traction, making them ideal for impromptu outdoor adventures as well.

UpperTextile
OutsoleRubber
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Best value boat shoes

Dockers Beacon Boat Shoe

Beacon Boat Shoe
Best value boat shoes

Dockers Beacon Boat Shoe

Now 42% Off
Pros
  • Slip-on sneaker style that's versatile for everyday fits
  • High-rebound footbed provides cushioning and support
  • Breathable linings plus odor control will keep them fresh
Cons
  • Run small but will break in over time

These boat shoes have it all in spades—modern style, affordability, classic vibe, and everyday performance. We love how they feel and look like sneakers but are actually slip-on shoes that are super easy to throw on. But what sets these boat shoes apart is their high rebound footbed that cushions each step while absorbing impact and shock to relieve pressure, and we found them indeed great for walking and standing all day. Additionally, the footbed is treated with Cleansport NTXTM technology, offering odor control and promoting good foot health.

The upper of these boat shoes is also worth a shoutout. Not only does it exude a classic sophistication to your look, but the breathable fabric linings inside also ensure optimal airflow, keeping your feet cool and comfortable throughout the day.

UpperLeather
OutsoleRubber
Most durable boat shoes

Rodd and Gunn Gordons Bay Boat Shoe

Gordons Bay Boat Shoe
Most durable boat shoes

Rodd and Gunn Gordons Bay Boat Shoe

Pros
  • Slip-resistant outsole with wet-dry traction
  • Footbed is supportive and cushioned to relieve pressure
  • Versatile look with removable laces
Cons
  • Sole feels kind of hard

Embark on a journey of unparalleled comfort and style with Rodd & Gunn's boat shoes. Style-wise, they're true to the core boat shoe look but have the burnished leather uppers that easily spruce up your footwear game. The leather and canvas lining exudes a casual elegance, providing a comfortable and relaxed feel. But our favorite part about them is the performance. From the rigid anti-slip outsole that grounds your every step to the supportive footbed that cushions your every step, your feet will be able to keep up with the pace all day long.

We also love how versatile they are. Whether you're strolling along the shoreline or navigating the urban jungle, these boat shoes effortlessly adapt to any setting and pair very well with shorts or cuff jeans. With elasticated reinforcement across the tongue, you also have the freedom to remove the laces, transforming these shoes into a sophisticated slip-on for effortless style.

UpperLeather
OutsoleRubber

More Boat Shoes We Love

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Best slip-on boat shoes

Eddie Bauer Haller Slip-On

Haller Slip-On
Best slip-on boat shoes

Eddie Bauer Haller Slip-On

Now 33% Off

Get ready to set sail in style with these slip-on style boat shoes that require zero effort to put on but will deliver maximum summer vacation panache—and comfort. Crafted with a breathable, washed canvas upper and a vulcanized rubber outsole, these kicks keep your feet cool and comfy, and your steps steady. With features like InsoFit cushioning EVA footbed and elastic goring, slipping them on and off will be as smooth as sailing on calm waters.

Best modern boat shoes

Columbia PFG Slack Tide™ Boat Shoe

PFG Slack Tide™ Boat Shoe
Best modern boat shoes

Columbia PFG Slack Tide™ Boat Shoe

Made equally for fishing and rocking the dock, Columbia’s boat shoes have the streamlined profile of sneakers but are still your companion for seafaring adventures. We love their grippy outsole designed for wet-dry traction, and shock-absorbent midsole that’ll keep our underfoot comfortable during those marathon fishing trips. Plus, it's equipped with rust-proof hardware, stain-resistant treatment, and an antimicrobial footbed, because even the toughest outdoor person needs to stay fresh.

Best sustainable boat shoes

Sperry SeaCycled™ Authentic Original™ Baja Boat Shoe

SeaCycled™ Authentic Original™ Baja Boat Shoe
Best sustainable boat shoes

Sperry SeaCycled™ Authentic Original™ Baja Boat Shoe

Handsewn with a recycled canvas upper that is breathable and super easy to break in, and a rubber outsole featuring Wave-Siping™ for wet-dry traction, these sustainable shoes offer a more eco-conscious twist on Sperry's OG style.

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Best sporty boat shoes

L.L.Bean Wellie Sport Shoes, Slip-On

Wellie Sport Shoes, Slip-On
Best sporty boat shoes

L.L.Bean Wellie Sport Shoes, Slip-On

Made for long days on the coast, a feature of the boat shoes is its water-resistance exterior fabric. If you truly want a waterproof shoe for, say, swimming and boating, then we suggest these sports shoes. A rubber-shell upper protects your feet and dries easily, while their neoprene collars make them easy to take on and off.

most stylish boat shoes

Sperry x J.Crew Authentic Original 2-eye boat shoes

Authentic Original 2-eye boat shoes
most stylish boat shoes

Sperry x J.Crew Authentic Original 2-eye boat shoes

In this collab, we see Sperry's classic two-eye boat shoes style renovated in exclusive colors and better leather materials. The upper is still as easy to break in as your OGs, and the sole still provides the traction you need for dockside walks. But the sophisticated style is seriously turned up. Grab a pair so you can stand out amongst a sea of regular Sperry boat shoes.

Most versatile boat shoes

Sea Star Beachwear Mariner Slip-on

Mariner Slip-on
Most versatile boat shoes

Sea Star Beachwear Mariner Slip-on

These Mariner water-ready espadrille style boat shoes are the ultimate for wading in the water, walking on rocky sands, and wearing to dinner once they dry (or not). They are super comfortable with stretch neoprene upper that is quick-drying and lightweight, and interior grommets for ventilation. The fabric also holds up for years to come.

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Best loafer boat shoes

Johnston & Murphy Cort Venetian

Cort Venetian
Best loafer boat shoes

Johnston & Murphy Cort Venetian

More loafers than boat shoes but just as good for nautical fun, these take casual comfort to a whole new level. With a grippy EVA sole and a genuine moccasin construction, they are the perfect boat shoe for leisure drives by the beach or spontaneous dockside walks. Handsewn details and leather lining make them feel like comfy slippers, while the removable cushioned insole ensures your feet are always in shipshape condition.

Best budget boat shoes

Sail Leather Premium Boat Shoes

Leather Premium Boat Shoes
Best budget boat shoes

Sail Leather Premium Boat Shoes

Set sail for savings and into the classic, recognizable boat shoe style with these. Crafted with fine leather, cushioned footbed, and hand-sewn details, they offer comfort and a versatile look. Non-marking and slip-resistant too, these slip-on wonders are perfect for anything from a ride on the sea or an impromptu stroll by the shore.

Headshot of Maverick Li
Maverick Li
Style and Commerce Editor

Maverick Li is the Style & Commerce Editor of Men’s Health, where he covers clothing, footwear, watches, and grooming. He was previously the Assistant Commerce Editor at Esquire.

Headshot of Christian Gollayan
Reviewed byChristian Gollayan
Deputy Editor, Commerce

As Men's Health's Deputy Editor, Commerce, Christian Gollayan oversees all shopping content on menshealth.com. He relocated back to New York by way of Portland, where he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in InStyle, Food & Wine, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia. 

Headshot of Ted Stafford
Tested byTed Stafford

Ted Stafford is the Fashion Director of Men’s Health. He oversees all style and fashion content for the brand, and also styles their fashion stories. His active lifestyle informs his passion for translating great designs into real-life style, a favorite part of his job. Prior to joining Men’s Health he worked at GQ magazine and Calvin Klein

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