Are you ready to sail in style? Boat shoes, also known as deck shoes, have become a staple in both the fashion and boating worlds. With their classic design and practical features, these shoes are equally popular on the high street and on the water.
In this article, we'll explore the best boat shoes on the market, from traditional leather options to lightweight and technical trainers. Whether you're a casual cruiser or a competitive sailor, there's a perfect pair of boat shoes for you.
Traditional Boat Shoes
Dubarry XLT deck shoes
Dubarry Commodore XLT
Durable and lightweight boat shoes
Specifications:
- Sizes: 6 and up
- Colors: Chestnut, Navy, Navy/Brown, Old Rum, Mahogany
- Material: Leather
If you're looking for a pair of boat shoes that strike a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, the Dubarry Commodore XLT is a great choice. These shoes are not only extra-light but also offer good cushioning and support with their three-hole lacing system. The soft leather and non-corrosive metal eyelets ensure lasting quality.
According to YM editor Theo Stocker, the Commodore XLT boat shoes are half the weight of traditional options, making them ideal for active sailors. "These shoes have a good degree of cushioning and provide firm support with the three-hole lacing," says Theo.
Chatham Sperrin Boat Shoes
Sturdy and comfortable winter boat shoes
Specifications:
- Sizes: 6 and up
- Colors: Dark Brown, Dark Tan
- Material: Leather
If you're planning to sail in colder weather, the Chatham Sperrin Boat Shoes are an excellent choice. These shoes feature a three-eyelet lace design, contrast stitching, and a heavy cleated sole for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces. The sole spring poron insole provides cushioning, support, breathability, and anti-bacterial properties.
Our tester wore these shoes over several months and found them to offer good all-round support. The robust eyelets and thick leather ensured durability, even in challenging conditions.
Sebago Portland Lea Oiled boat shoes
Sebago Portland Lea Oiled Boat Shoes
Stylish and durable summer boat shoes
Specifications:
- Sizes: 5.5 and up
- Colors: Brown/Dark Brown
- Material: Leather
For a classic and hard-wearing boat shoe, look no further than the Sebago Portland Lea Oiled. These shoes are made from oiled leather, making them strong and resistant to the elements. The two-tone tan brown and black design with contrast stitching adds a touch of style.
The comfortable fit, whether worn with or without socks, is due to the leather sock lining and extra cushioning. The full-grain leather collar keeps your foot securely in the shoe even when barefoot.
Sebago Dockside Portland Tumbled Boat Shoes
High-quality boat shoes with exceptional grip
Specifications:
- Sizes: 6 and up
- Colors: Brown
- Material: Leather
If you're looking for a classic boat shoe with outstanding grip, the Sebago Dockside Portland Tumbled is an excellent choice. These hand-stitched shoes are made from unique hot-stuff buffed leather conditioned with oils and waxes.
The variety of color and material options allows you to choose the best boat shoe for your needs. The non-marking anti-slip soles provide stable grip in all conditions, making them perfect for active sailors.
Orca Bay Fowey
Orca Bay Fowey
Premium wide-fit boat shoes for all-day comfort
Specifications:
- Sizes: 7.5 and up
- Colors: Saddle
- Material: Leather
For those with wider feet, the Orca Bay Fowey boat shoes offer a classic-looking style and a wide fit. These shoes are handmade in premium Saddle-colored leather and feature a two-eyelet leather rawhide lacing system, full leather cushioned insole, and non-slip, non-marking rubber sole.
Orca Bay is known for producing fine leather footwear, and these boat shoes are no exception. The Fowey is designed to provide the utmost comfort and support, no matter how long you spend on your feet.
Modern Deck Shoes
Helly Hansen Ahiga V4 HP
Helly Hansen Ahiga V4 HP
Versatile and lightweight summer deck shoes
Specifications:
- UK sizes: 6.5-12.5
- Colors: Choice of four
- Material: Synthetic textile and mesh upper/EVA midsole/HellyGrip rubber outsole
If you're looking for deck shoes optimized for summer use, the Helly Hansen Ahiga V4 HP is an excellent choice. These shoes are lightweight, extremely quick-drying, and highly breathable. The HellyGrip rubber outsole maximizes grip, while the high-grade EVA midsole promotes comfort.
According to our reviewer, these shoes are suitable not only for sailing but also for activities like paddleboarding. The versatile design and superior performance make them a great option for any water-based adventure.
Zhik Fuze Boat Shoes
Lightweight and comfortable deck shoes
Specifications:
- Sizes: 6 and up
- Colors: Grey
- Material: Fabric/Rubber
For ultimate comfort and a little extra investment, the Zhik Fuze deck shoes are a top choice. These lightweight shoes offer flexibility and excellent support, with a one-way drainage system incorporated into the sole. The premium price ensures a high-quality product that will keep you comfortable, even in unpredictable weather conditions.
NRS Vibe Water Shoes
NRS Vibe Water Shoes
Versatile deck shoes for both wet and dry wear
Specifications:
- Sizes: 8 and up
- Colors: Grey/Blue
- Material: Cordura nylon
The NRS Vibe Water Shoes are designed for versatile wear, with or without socks. The quick-drying Cordura nylon upper and non-absorbent EVA foam footbed ensure comfort and support. These shoes feature a drainage system to release any water that manages to find its way inside.
The non-marking rubber sole offers excellent traction, making these shoes suitable for a wide range of water activities. If you're looking for deck shoes that provide comfort and protection, the NRS Vibe Water Shoes are a perfect choice.
Sperry Authentic Original Float Boat Shoes
Sperry Authentic Original Float Boat Shoes
Water-ready deck shoes for ultimate protection
Specifications:
- Sizes: 7 and up
- Colors: Black, Grey, Navy, White
- Material: Rubber
The Sperry Authentic Original Float Boat Shoes are not only lightweight but also float on water. These shoes are made from super-lightweight injected EVA, making them perfect for water activities. The water-ready design includes strategically placed drainage ports and vent holes for breathability and quick-drying.
The non-marking rubber outsole with molded wave-siping provides sure-footed traction in all conditions. If you're looking for boat shoes that offer maximum water protection, the Sperry Authentic Original Float Boat Shoes are an ideal choice.
Best Women's Boat Shoes
Chatham Java Lady G2
Chatham Java Lady G2
Sustainable and stylish boat shoes for women
Reasons to buy:
- Two-year manufacturer's guarantee
- Sustainable materials
- Classic style
- Not bulky
Chatham has taken its popular G2 boat shoe and given it a sustainable makeover with the Java Lady G2. These shoes are made from premium walnut nubuck leather sourced from a Leather Working Group gold-rated tannery. The eco-conscious manufacturing process reduces water consumption, harmful chemicals, and energy usage.
The natural latex rubber sole is sustainably sourced, and the new sole spring poron performance cushioning, made from natural latex, offers maximum comfort and shock absorption. With a wide range of sizes available and a classic design, the Chatham Java Lady G2 is a great option for women seeking sustainable and stylish boat shoes.
Decathlon Tribord Sailing Boat Trainers Race
Affordable and practical deck trainers
Reasons to buy:
- Lightweight
- Good grip
- Quick drainage
- Low budget option
Decathlon's Tribord sailing kit is known for its affordability and quality, and the Women's Sailing Boat Trainers Race 500 are no exception. These lightweight trainers offer a diamond-patterned non-marking sole for excellent grip. The quick-drainage system ensures your feet stay dry, even in wet conditions.
Decathlon's thorough testing and approval process ensures that these budget-friendly shoes meet the highest standards. If you're looking for a low-cost option that doesn't compromise on performance, the Decathlon Tribord Sailing Boat Trainers Race 500 are a perfect choice.
Helly Hansen HP Foil V2 Sailing Shoes
Helly Hansen HP Foil V2 Sailing Shoes
Comfortable and versatile boat shoes for summer racing
Reasons to buy:
- Superlightweight
- Good grip
- Quick drying
- Non-marking soles
- Extreme comfort
Helly Hansen is renowned for its innovative outdoor gear, and the Women's HP Foil V2 Sailing Shoes are no exception. These low-cut shoes allow for excellent ankle movement, while the open-mesh construction enhances breathability. Structural overlays in high-stress areas protect your feet and increase longevity.
These shoes feature a comfortable, removable EVA footbed made from quick-drying and anti-microbial fabric. The non-marking rubber outsole provides excellent grip, while the shock cord lace system makes them easy to get in and out of. Whether you're racing or enjoying a leisurely sail, the Helly Hansen HP Foil V2 Sailing Shoes will keep you comfortable and protected.
Decathlon Cruise 100 Boat Shoes
Value for money boat shoes for women
Reasons to buy:
- Non-marking with a non-slip micro-grooved natural rubber outsole
- Coated with a water-repellent treatment to resist saltwater
- Great price
Decathlon's value for money Tribord range offers excellent quality, and the Cruise 100 Boat Shoes are no exception. These leather boat shoes are designed for inshore sailing in dry weather conditions. They feature a non-slip micro-grooved natural rubber outsole and are coated with a water-repellent treatment to resist saltwater.
Available in a range of colors and sizes, the Decathlon Cruise 100 Boat Shoes provide excellent performance at an affordable price.
Chatham Pippa II G2 Leather Boat Shoes
Premium boat shoes for women
Reasons to buy:
- Wide range of colors and sizes
- Premium washable leather
- Antibacterial sole cushioning
Chatham has been producing high-quality shoes for over 30 years, and the Pippa II G2 Leather Boat Shoes are a testament to their expertise. Each pair comes with a two-year manufacturer's warranty, ensuring exceptional durability.
These boat shoes are crafted from premium washable leather and feature non-slip rubber soles, rust-proof eyelets, and rot-proof laces. The anti-bacterial sole spring poron performance cushioning offers maximum comfort and shock absorption. With a wide range of colors and sizes available, the Chatham Pippa II G2 Leather Boat Shoes are a premium choice for women seeking style and durability.
Decathlon Tribord 500 Leather Sailing Boat Shoes
Decathlon Tribord 500 Leather Sailing Boat Shoes
Affordable boat shoes for women
Reasons to buy:
- Non-marking with a non-slip micro-grooved natural rubber outsole
- Coated with a water-repellent treatment to resist saltwater
- Great price
If you're looking for value for money boat shoes, the Decathlon Tribord 500 Leather Sailing Boat Shoes are an excellent choice. These shoes offer a non-slip micro-grooved natural rubber outsole and are coated with a water-repellent treatment to resist saltwater.
Available in men's and women's versions, these boat shoes provide excellent grip and durability at an affordable price. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a casual cruiser, the Decathlon Tribord 500 Leather Sailing Boat Shoes won't disappoint.
Keen Women's Solr Closed Toe Water Shoe
Keen Women's Solr Closed Toe Water Shoe
Open foot deck shoes for maximum comfort
Reasons to buy:
- Water-resistant upper
- Recycled plastic webbing
- Quick-drying lining
If you're looking for open-toe deck shoes without the risk of stubbing your toes, the Keen Women's Solr Closed Toe Water Shoe is a perfect choice. These shoes feature a water-resistant upper with recycled plastic webbing and a quick-drying lining.
The non-marking rubber sole provides excellent grip, while the deep drainage channels and siped zones ensure maximum traction. Whether you're relaxing on the deck or exploring the shore, the Keen Women's Solr Closed Toe Water Shoe will keep your feet protected and comfortable.
These are just a few of the best boat shoes available on the market. Whether you prefer traditional leather designs or modern technical trainers, there's a perfect pair for every sailor. Invest in quality footwear and enjoy your on-deck adventures with style and comfort!
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Looking for more protection? Check out our guide to the best waterproof boat shoes on the market right now. Need a wider fit? We've got you covered with our guide to the best boat shoes for wide feet. Still can't find what you're looking for? Head to Amazon's dedicated sailing page for more marine products.
