15 Best Boat Shoes (Review) in 2020

Sperry takes the cake with one killer boat shoe. First of all, we’re big fans of versatility in design, and they give you up to thirty different options to choose from between coloration and style. You can’t get any better than that. Besides the looks, it’s about the comfort and construction: all leather, all the time. You’ll slip right into these shoes, feeling completely at home, and looking at yourself in the full-length mirror saying, “Who’s dapper as hell? Me.” Humor aside, we couldn’t be happier with the non-marking rubber outsole, and the shock-absorbing EVA heel cup. Sperry sits at number one for value and comfort: it’s time to hit the boardwalk, lads.

We know what you’re thinking, but hear us out. Keep all your Crocs memes to yourself, because regardless of the brand name, these are the real deal. Truth be told, we laughed at the thought of buying anything from Crocs, but we were beyond surprised. Taking the silver stage is this pair of all-canvas construction boat shoes, complete with a non-slip synthetic sole. Your feet are kept in a breathable environment, while being given amazing grip along the bottom to keep you in place when everyone else is falling down. There’s seven different styles to choose from, each mildly affecting the overall price. Crocs, we tip our hats to you.

Sounds like a ZZ Top song, or a new A&E reality show, but it’s the title that Sperry tossed onto our editor’s choice boat shoe. Top-SIder Billfish 3-Eye are about as far away as you can get from boat shoes, while still sticking to the general construction, and providing that long stitching pattern on top your feet to give a nautical feel. Thanks to the air mesh and leather hybrid construction, this is breathable, and durable as all holy hell against the elements, whether that’s the roaring ocean waves, or if it’s the festivities around the backyard on a Fourth of July weekend. Either way, you get to choose between a handful of killer designs, and get the same great Sperry quality that earned our top spot on this list. You can conmbine this leather shoes with one of the top leather backpacks from our list.

Legend has it that Margaritaville Men’s Anchor Lace Boat Shoes won’t make Jimmy Buffet appear and start singing, but they’re still fun either way. These ultra stylish boat shoes cost next to nothing, and bring excellent quality, without compromising on that rustic look that you’re looking for. Two leather straps cross near the tongue, running through the hell, and meld into the comfortable padding that keeps your ankles from chafing, even if you’re not using socks. All around, it’s a leather and textile build that’s destined to last through the thick of it all, if you’re adventurous enough to handle it. Breathable, affordable, and completely complimenting to your wardrobe: what more could you ask for?

Okay, I may not have had enough sway to convince the editor, but this pair of boat shoes is this writer’s favorite from the list. Globalwin Men’s Loafers are casual enough to wear with just about any look, whether you go with our favorite white/grey, or choose from the other seven styles available. These comfortable boat shoes have a faux leather top, the traditional double lace over the tongue, and a serious sense of style when you slip these on your feet. They don’t take long to break in, and deal oncoming saltwater with relative ease. If you’re a gent who looks for angular lines, you’ll be happy to know that this pair narrows your feet, giving you a slightly taller appearance. Hey, every little bit helps, right? Pair these with an amazing V-neck shirt and you are ready for a boat adventure. 

You can’t escape the Sperry; not on this list. Sperry kicks some serious ass in this department, and we’re not afraid to say it. Much like their 3-Eye model, the 2-Eye comes with rust-proof eyelets to run your laces through, while sticking to that non-marking rubber outsole that we love them for. On top of that, they went the extra mile with comfort, giving you a dual-density padding along the bottom. This works for immediate comfort, and some support throughout the day to cut down on fatigue. Last but not least, the shock-absorbing EVA heel adds so much to these shoes, whether you choose our favorite (tan) or the other four styles, you’re sure to fall in love with Sperry one way or another.

No ultimate footwear list is complete without Timberland making an appearance. The original makers of the yellow boot took their nautical caps, put their heads together, and made one dapper-as-hell pair of boat shoes. Leather-lined EVA footbeds cradle your heels and remove pressure from your arches, while the rubber sole adds some nice pep in your step. On top of that, it’s primarily made of leather, giving you serious durability. You’ll have these for years to come, whether they’re going on the boat with you every Sunday, or just adding a nice element to your casual wardrobe. Timberland is synonymous with quality: they delivered, and never fail to impress.

You read that quickly and thought it was Bruno Mars, didn’t you? (So did we.) Bruno Marc New York output one of the best renditions of boat shoe loafer combinations that we’ve seen, and they deserve a round of applause. The simplistic design gives you that nice curve of stitching along the toe, while being made out of man-made material to keep the costs low, and keep green where it belongs: in your pocket. Lightweight as can be, flexible down to the tightest bend, these are designed to last you for years to come, and bring a new element of style to your wardrobe. Once you slip into these, you won’t want to kick them off until it’s absolutely necessary. Just pack your duffel bag and hit the road… We mean boat!

Not really feeling canvas or man-made materials? We can see that, but we know that you can see yourself in Rockport’s killer boat shoe. Full grain leather and a dual eyelet design leave nothing to be desired: you’re looking at exactly what you get, with an added benefit. You get a little pep in your step with the synthetic sole, so you’re not kicking around on pavement with sore heels by the end of the day. It’s not all about being on the boat, it’s also about heading into town and enjoying the sights, and your heels shouldn’t be killing you like a double-shift Denny’s waitress by the end of the day. Do yourself a favor, slip into something that’s comfortable, and built to last for years beyond anything else you own.

You’re a high-roller, aren’t you? We’ve got just the ticket. Sebago has graced the feet of tens of thousands of men, giving them a unique style to cherry pick from with over twenty different ways to approach this boat shoe. Our personal favorite is the grey leather, which goes wonderfully with the white stitching and rawhide lacing. Every part of this shoe defines your outfit; not the other way around. Thanks to the primary leather construction and EVA foam insole, this is built to cradle your feet in comfort, and weather every literal storm with you. Rain or shine, boat or the docksides, you’re good to rock and roll with Sebago as your wingman. For more waterproof boots, check our helpful guide.

Timberland almost made this into a low-lying boot, but kept within the traditional parameters of a good boat shoe. They’ve hand-sewn this Piper Cove Boat Shoe, giving each pair their own rustic charm, all while providing the Timberland seal of approval and attention to quality that they’re well-known for. The comfortable and removable footbed allows you to be in control of your support and comfortability at all times, while the full grain leather construction gives you durable quality that’s destined to last. They didn’t become one of the most well-known and coveted footwear designers in the country for nothing; Timberland brings every bit of excellencve and unique style to all five available designs.

Nothing’s cooler than not caring enough to even list your own shoe, right? Humor aside, this Unlisted Santon boat shoe brings all the quality of Kenneth Cole to the table that we’ve grown to know and love over the years. Made of canvas and a flexible synthetic sole, this boat shoe brings all the rustic charm to the table, while keeping the unnecessary add-ons at home. No frills, all flair with these guys. The traditional two-eye design and thin brown strip above the outsole gives an excellent attention to detail that can’t be beat, while the durable interior keeps you in comfort, and under protection. Best of all? Kenneth Cole’s name is widespread and adored, but the prices are kept relatively low.

We’re winding down our list, but we have this little gem for you here that we just couldn’t leave out, even if we tried. Bruno Marc gives you these Bahama Loafers at such a low price, you won’t actually believe what’s going on. The unique stitching pattern and man-made materials give it a unique look, while keeping the costs rock bottom low. Apart from the attractive price tag, we could walk around in these all day. From one of the six different styles, you’re bound to find your ultimate pair. And let’s be honest, doesn’t it look like you’ll be walking around on caramel pillows?

You didn’t think we’d leave ole Tommy out, did you? While they weren’t the top-tier boat shoes we were hoping for, Hilfiger gives you a very attractive pair with over eight different options to choose from for style, while keeping true to the brand name we’ve all come to know, love, and trust. 100% leather construction blended with a duranble rubber sole gives you sustainability for the ages, while looking smart-casual. If you’re not totally sure what you’re looking for in terms of boat shoes, take a look at our guide below, and circle on back to grab your favorite pair from our list.

Dockers have been in the shoe business for over 30 years and they’re owned by Levi Strauss & Co. So, with those credentials, you can expect high-quality materials, tons of style, and generally well-made shoes. These boat shoes are made from 90% genuine leather and 10% rubber, making them both durable and comfortable. They’ve also been treated with NeverWet, which makes them impervious to water and stains. You can spill red wine on these shoes and it’ll slide right off. The inside of the shoe has been treated with CleanSport NXT, an antimicrobial treatment that prevents odors. If you’re looking for an inexpensive boat shoe that can genuinely withstand life on board, the Dockers Men’s Beacon Boat Shoe is the way to go.