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The Best Sailing Shoes For The 2024 Season

The Best Sailing Shoes | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

January 2, 2024

The best sailing shoes are both waterproof and slip-resistant. Outdoor boots are popular, but specialty sailing shoes are available.

Traditional sailing shoes are typically made of suede or similar material and feature a low-profile design and relatively flat soles. Modern sailing shoes are designed for offshore use and made of waterproof synthetic material.

Table of contents

Types of Sailing Shoes

Sailing shoes come in two primary types. These are stylish traditional sailing shoes (which are made of natural materials) and modern waterproof offshore sailing shoes. Both are practical and useful aboard sailboats.

Traditional Sailing Shoes

Traditional sailing shoes have been around for almost a century. These shoes, also known as "yacht shoes," are made from suede leather and are soft and flexible. They're not usually waterproof, but they can be made more water-resistant using chemical treatments.

Traditional sailing shoes are primarily used as a style statement, but they can be quite practical for some sailors. After all, they were designed to be used on boats. They utilize a flat sole that features a unique non-slip texture, which was designed to give sailors traction on a wet deck.

Modern Waterproof Sailing Shoes

Modern waterproof sailing shoes are made from synthetic materials and engineered for traction on wet surfaces. These shoes are preferred by offshore sailing crews who need to stay warm and dry in rough weather conditions.

Sailing Boots

Sailing boots are often used in conjunction with full-body foul weather gear. These boots resemble snow or rain boots, and they're made of a waterproof material such as rubber.

Sailing boots are often reserved for foul weather, as they're heavier and more clumsy than modern lightweight sailing shoes. That said, every offshore sailor should have a set of waterproof boots onboard.

Best Traditional Sailing Shoes

Traditional sailing shoes are practical, stylish, and still widely available. High-quality examples can last for years, and they're a staple of yacht clubs and sailing organizations across the country. Here are four of the best traditional sailboat shoes.

1. Sperry Leeward Boat Shoe 

Sperry practically invented the 20th-century boat shoe, and they're still the go-to shoe company for sailors across the world. The Sperry Leeward Boat Shoe  is an excellent introduction to traditional boat shoes.

Sperry's traditional Leeward shoe is a tan leather slip-on deck shoe made of a water-resistant hide. It features a rubber sole, which incorporates the Sperry anti-slip design that's popular across the line.

The design of the shoe is simple, and it's stitched together using thick and sturdy thread for long service life. Its water-resistant treatment makes it easy to clean and quick to dry should it become waterlogged.

This traditional marine shoe is both comfortable and stylish, making it ideal for regattas and dockside events. Despite its looks, the Sperry Leeward shoe is also practical. The Sperry Top-Deck line is popular with sailors and boat owners, as it stands up well to spray and slippery conditions.

2. L.L. Bean Casco Bay Boat Mocs

L.L. Bean is another household name in traditional boat shoes. While not as ubiquitous as Sperry, L.L. Bean shoes are an excellent choice for traditional sailing footwear.

L.L. Bean Casco Bay Boat Mocs  are made in the traditional boat shoe style. They're slip-on by design and feature a low-profile sole with a very slight heel. L.L. Bean uses a different sole design philosophy, opting for a non-textured material.

Counterintuitively, the L.L. Bean flat non-textured sole actually has excellent anti-slip characteristics. It's made of sturdy leather that resists sliding on wet decks, and it features slight outsole siphons to increase grip on wet surfaces.

The L.L. Bean Casco Bay Boat shoe is constructed with durable yet flexible leather that is comfortable and easy to clean. It features a leather liner inside, which works well with short socks and wears evenly over time.

That said, the leather liner is designed to work with or without socks. This is a plus, as it makes taking the shoe on and off easy after a day on the beach or walking around the deck barefoot.

These shoes feature a lace-up top with leather laces. They can be tied and left in place, as this is a slip-on shoe. The L.L. Bean Casco Bay shoe can be worn with or without socks, just like the Sperry mentioned above.

3. J. Crew Classic Leather Boat Shoes

J. Crew produces an affordable and classic-looking set of boat shoes that are ideal for a first set. These shoes are made of suede-like leather, and they feature a non-slip rubber sole with a traditional profile.

J. Crew Classic Leather sailing shoes  follow the stylistic trends of early boat shoes, yet they incorporate some modern materials that make them more practical for use on a sailboat. These include a non-marking rubber sole that's specifically designed to improve traction on wet and dry surfaces.

These J. Crew boat shoes feature leather laces in a way similar to the L.L. Bean Casco Bay shoe. Like the L.L. Bean variants, these shoes can be worn with or without socks.

The leather is treated for easy cleaning, and they're hand-stitched for strength and longevity. The laces come through the sides of the shoe through grommets, which helps prevent the leather from wearing or breaking around the entry and exit points.

These classic boat shoes are a perfect first pair, and they're affordable enough to wear frequently. They also function as sailboat shoes, which is a plus as many new "boat shoes" are designed for looks only.

4. Sperry Gold Cup Original Boat Shoe

Sperry Gold Cup boat shoes  are a classic and premium boat shoe. It features the standard Sperry anti-slip sole and durable leather construction for long life and easy cleaning.

Like most standard Sperry shoes, the Gold Cup Original series is designed to be used on a sailboat or yacht. The shoe's design is based on the original Sperry, which was worn by sailors and yacht owners for decades.

Sperry shoe soles are lightly scored and made with a coarse rubber material that resists slip on wet decks. They're excellent for teak and fiberglass decks and add a layer of security to existing non-slip surfaces.

The shoes themselves follow the classic Sperry design philosophy. They're made from a non-suede leather that's water-resistant and dries out quickly, and they feature leather laces fed through 18k gold plated eyelets.

These shoes feature durable stitching that's used to extend their service life. Inside the shoe, a lambskin lining makes it comfortable to wear with or without socks. The Sperry Gold Cup shoe is a high-quality sailing shoe that's ideal for warm conditions.

Best Modern Sailing Shoes

Although modern sailing shoes lack the aesthetic appeal of traditional sailing shoes, they offer the added convenience of modern design and the functionality of synthetic materials. Here are four of the best modern shoes for sailing.

1. Atlantic Heritage Comfort Boat Shoe

The Atlantic Heritage Comfort Boat Shoe  combines traditional styling with modern functionality. It features a suede and stitched appearance and the design of a modern running shoe, and it offers superior support and anti-slip characteristics.

The primary drawback of flat-soled shoes is that they can be uncomfortable, especially if you have foot, back, or knee problems. The Atlantic Heritage shoe eliminates these issues, as it offers the support of a modern shoe.

The primary selling point of the Atlantic Heritage shoe is comfort. It's designed specifically to offer all-day comfort when standing on the deck or walking alongshore. They work just as well on sand and gravel, and they offer elevation in all the right places.

The Atlantic Heritage shoe features a proprietary anti-slip sole, which is designed to provide traction without leaving marks. They stand up to water well, despite the fact that they're not technically waterproof.

2. DLGJPA Lightweight Aqua Water Shoes

The DLGJPA Lightweight Aqua Water shoe  series is a radical departure from what most people would consider a traditional boat shoe. These woven shoes are designed for grip and use in wet conditions.

The Aqua Water shoe series takes a different approach to water resistance. Instead of keeping water out, they're designed to let it flow around and inside of the shoe. The woven body of the shoe dries almost as quickly as it gets wet.

The Aqua Water shoe is a warm-weather shoe designed for wet tropical environments and water sports. They're especially useful for launching boats if you need to get in the water to guide the vessel.

The bottom of the Aqua Water shoe is perforated for quick draining. These shoes are highly breathable and ultralight, making them a comfortable and non-slip option for warm weather sailing. 

3. Riomar Deck Driver Stingray Boat Shoe

Are you looking for traditional styling with a modern non-slip grip? The Riomar Deck Driver Stingray  is the perfect combination of style and modern materials for use in wet and dry sailing conditions .

A unique feature of the Riomar Deck Driver is the sole. It features a series of protruding rubber buttons that conform to the shape of the ground for optimal grip.

These shoes are non-marking, which is especially important for boats with polished white fiberglass deck spaces. The shoes are flexible and comfortable and designed to be worn with or without socks.

Riomar is a well-known producer of marine shoes, and the Deck Driver Stingray is the culmination of years of experience making high-quality sailboat shoes. These shoes are ideal if you're looking for an attractive and practical modern sailing shoe.

4. Swims Waterproof Penny Loafer

Here's a unique and modern machine-washable sailing shoe designed for comfort and good looks. The Swims Penny Loafer  is a well-executed take on an old design and an excellent choice for warm-weather sailing.

The Swims Penny Loafer is completely waterproof and designed for use in wet conditions. It's washable and contains antimicrobial materials to stay sanitary even in the worst conditions.

The shoe features a proven traction sole design with scoring and anti-slip compounds. It's ideal for walking around fiberglass or wooden deck and maintains traction when the deck is wet. 

These shoes are designed to look like penny loafers, which means they're both stylish and comfortable. They can be worn with or without socks, but they're designed primarily for sockless use.

Swims Waterproof Penny Loafer sailboat shoes are currently available in light blue, gray, brown, black, and dark blue. Two-tone gray and neon green are available, and the rest of the colors feature a close-to-matching sole.

Best Sailboat Boots for Rough Weather

Warm weather and calm conditions aren't the only things that sailors encounter. Thus, it's a good idea to have a set of waterproof sailing boots to accompany your foul weather gear. Here are the three best sailboat boots for less-than-ideal sailing conditions.

1. Xtratuf 6 in Ankle Deck Boots

These modern deck boots are the perfect way to prepare for rough weather onboard a sailboat. They're comfortable and waterproof and slip on easily without any laces.

The lack of laces on these boots is more than just convenience. Laces pose a hazard on a sailboat, as it's easy to get them snagged on a cleat or trip while walking around the deck. The Xtratuf 6 Ankle Deck Boots eliminate this hazard.

Aesthetically, these are attractive boots that go well with foul-weather gear. They're not noticeably larger than standard fishing boots. In fact, they're lower-profile than most foul weather boots. That makes them an excellent choice for fair and inclement weather

These are low boots, as they only reach about halfway up the ankle. They're made of a waterproof rubber material that's comfortable, durable, and easy to clean. Xtratuf sailing boots also feature a flat non-slip sole for traction when moving about the deck.

2. Gill Short Cruising Boots

Here's a traditional sailboat boot that's designed for comfort, safety, and water resistance. These "short" boots are fairly tall and ideal for pairing with the waterproof pants from your foul weather gear.

Gill Short Cruising Boots  are designed specifically for marine use, which makes them ideal for keeping aboard a sailboat. The soles feature a proprietary design that offers durability and superior anti-slip properties.

These boots resemble traditional fishing boots or barn muck boots, but they're designed for waterproof use on slippery surfaces such as the deck of a sailboat.

They're comfortable and easy to clean, and they're a highly affordable option if you don't already have a pair of foul weather waterproof sailing boots.

3. Rugged Shark Great White Deck Boots

Rugged Shark is a household name in sailboat boots, and they produce a line of premium deck boots for foul weather use. These full-size boots are perfect for all sailing weather conditions.

The Rugged Shark Great White deck boot  is a serious heavy-duty deck boot. It's the "real deal," as they say, and this boot offers numerous advantages when the weather gets hazardous (or simply damp and uncomfortable).

These boots are roomy and waterproof, allowing sailors to wear warm insulated socks inside without fear of waterlogging. They work well with standard foul weather gear, and they're high enough to keep water out if the cockpit fills up.

These boots feature an anti-slip sole with corrugated scoring. This anti-slip surface is comparable to traditional deck shoes that date back almost a century. These are proven premium boots with the right combination of durability and flexibility.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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The Best Boat Shoes That Every Sailor Needs

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Our content is meticulously curated through independent research, testing, reviews, and AI-driven recommendations, all designed to present you with the finest product choices. When you make a purchase through our links, it could result in us earning a commission.

Give anyone the right shoes and they can conquer the world. The classic sailors’ footwear known for its great versatility and top-notch comfort, boat shoes are a must-have in your gear, and we have compiled a list of the top boat shoes in 2024.

Sailors and water sports enthusiasts know the essence of having a good boat shoe. Asides from making the feet look good, boat shoes are the best in preventing you from slipping when walking on wet surfaces on your boat. So many things come into play when choosing the right boat shoe and with the gazillion options in the market, you’re bound to get overwhelmed when making a choice, so here’s a list of the best boat shoes to add to your shoe rack in your floating fortress.

Our Top Picks

  • Top Pick: Dockers Men’s Boating Shoe Shop Now ➔
  • Runner Up: JAMONWU Mens Boating Shoe Shop Now ➔
  • Honorable Mention: Sperry Men's Boating Shoe Shop Now ➔
  • Contender: Timberland Men's Boating Shoe Shop Now ➔
  • Also Consider: Columbia Men's Boating Shoe Shop Now ➔
  • Great for Comfort: Margaritaville Men's Boating Shoe Shop Now ➔
  • Most Affordable: Skechers Men's Boating Shoe Shop Now ➔
  • 1 What Should I Look Out for When Choosing a Good Boat Shoe?
  • 2 What Are the Factors to Consider When Picking Out the Best Boat Shoe?
  • 4 Durability
  • 5 Water resistance
  • 6 Grip and traction

Is socks with boat shoes a good combination?

How do i clean my shoes, what can i wear my boat shoes with, related content, here is the top boat shoe of 2024.

Boat Shoe reviews

Dockers Men’s Boating Shoe

The Dockers men’s boat shoe is the best boat shoe when you are looking for great attention to detail, elegance, and style. Crafted from 100 percent high-quality leather, the Dockers boat shoes are perfect shoes to go with anything.

  • It comes with excellent stitching
  • It is water-resistant
  • It is very durable
  • It is not leather-lined
  • It acing may fray

Key Features

  • Full leather construction with a natural appearance
  • Durable rubber outsoles for maximum comfort and also enhance traction
  • Flexible construction is suitable for all-day wear
  • Made of soft and flexible leather combined with an EVA footbed for great comfort and heel cups that ensure proper walking posture
  • Classic two-eyelet design with an additional 360-degree lacing system for tightening the shoe

Boat Shoe reviews

JAMONWU Mens Boating Shoe

Looking for the best boat shoes that you’ll never get tired of? Then the Jamonwu’s canvas sneakers are just the thing for you. These bost shoes are soft and lightweight and can be worn for extended periods without creating pressure on your feet.

  • They are washable
  • They are quick to dry
  • They are very comfy
  • Its material can be a bit itchy on the feet
  • High-quality lining that gives your foot a comfortable sense and never makes you feel tired even after a long day of wearing
  • Soft and lightweight with no pressure on the feet and makes it easier for you to walk
  • Round toe cap that fits the feet and is spacious enough not to squeeze
  • Wear-resistant soles that can withstand bending and stretching and provides you with enough security to let you go further
  • The elastic band gives you an easy on and off feel

Honorable Mention

Boat Shoe reviews

Sperry Men’s Boating Shoe

While you’re getting some breeze out at the sea, your feet shouldn’t be left out too. The Sperry Men’s Billfish 3-eye boat shoe helps your feet breathe with its mesh sides.

  • It is available in different colors
  • It is exceptionally breathable
  • It can be worn for extended periods
  • The stitching may stretch
  • Wears down quicker than other brands
  • 100 percent leather and air mesh construction that gives you the perfect combination of support and breathability
  • Molded EVA cushion midsole and heel for premium comfort and also helps to absorb shock while walking on hard surfaces
  • 360 degrees lacing system for adjusting fit and three rust-proof eyelets that would stay in their best condition
  • Perforated side panels help add to breathability and allow for a substantial amount of airflow to keep your feet cool even on the hottest of days.
  • Wave-sipping rubber outsole for stability on wet and dry surfaces that leave no marks and are designed to give you the best traction.

Boat Shoe reviews

Timberland Men’s Boating Shoe

Don’t miss out on getting stylish while relaxing at sea with the best boat shoe; The Timberland’s Classic 2- Eye. Fully sealed seams prevent any leaks and rubber soles that maximize grip which allows you to be sure-footed even in slippery conditions.

  • It is waterproof
  • Its durable leather outsoles leave no marks
  • It is very stylish
  • Inside sole cuts off at the ball of the foot
  • Premium full-grain and nubuck leather uppers 
  • Hand sewn uppers are stitched to the midsole and cemented to the outsole 
  • The 360-degree rawhide lacing system provides a custom fit 
  • 3/4-length leather-lined EVA footbeds 
  • Sipped rubber outsoles for maximum traction and slip resistance 
  • The classic two-eyelet design as well as moccasin stitching along the front really adds to the great impression.

Also Consider

Boat Shoe reviews

Columbia Men’s Boating Shoe

Built for the water life with a plush design, the Columbia Men’s boat shoe is the best boat shoe that gives you a super clean look. It boasts of an advanced water and stain repellency that makes it the ultimate companion for active days out on the water.

  • It is the perfect shoe for going fishing
  • It is waterproof and stain resistant
  • It ensures maximum grip
  • It comes in a very tight fit and may not be wide enough
  • It features an open mesh and synthetic rubber composite construction
  • Lower durometer EVA for ultimate comfort
  • It comes with a lace-up closure for an adjustable and secure fit
  • Signature technology that ensures high-quality protection and prevention
  • Advanced traction outsole that prevents slipping

Great for Comfort

Boat Shoe reviews

Margaritaville Men’s Boating Shoe

Stay grounded in this anchor lace boat shoe which features a classically nautical silhouette and luxurious leather construction for pure comfort.

With an impressive amount of structure, the Margaritaville anchor lace shoes are the best boat shoe for the outdoors.

  • Perfect breathability for summer
  • Doesn’t leave any marks
  • Only available in two colors only
  • Discomfort from heel stitching
  • Comfortable foam insole for perfect feel as opposed to the traditional soles that offer little to no comfort
  • The integrated foam insole gives you added support
  • Soft padded collar and tongue that is ideal for summertime wearing
  • Breathable leather mesh upper to prevent your feet from getting trapped in a hot pair of shoes, with textile panels on the uppers, there’s a guaranteed high level of airflow.
  • Leather and textile construction that offers a great appeal with the option to last for a while
  • Contrast stitching that breaks up the color of shoes and adds a little bit of depth and dimension in all the right areas

Most Affordable

Boat Shoe reviews

Skechers Men’s Boating Shoe

Get some groove in your yacht with the comfortable Skechers relaxed-fit Elent-Mosen boat shoe. With a soft woven canvas fabric, the Skechers relaxed-fit Elent-Mosen shoe is the best boat shoe for easy slip-on and also comes with an air-cooled memory foam insole.

  • Attractive design
  • Good quality
  • Not fit for every foot shape
  • Soft woven canvas fabric upper and slip-on stretch laced casual comfort boat shoe design
  • Padded tongue and collar with shock-absorbing midsole
  • Flexible rubber traction that prevents slipping
  • Stitched seam moc toe front
  • Soft suede textured synthetic overlay at heel panel

Buying Guide: Boat Shoes

Boat shoes are perfect for both looking good and also functional – when you want to go into the water as they provide traction on any slippery surface.

Boat shoes are mostly made of leather or canvas which are known to repel water and are great for a day out on the sea.

Earlier on, we gave an outline of the best boat shoes that stand out from the bunch, but you may still be in a fix as to which to choose. But we’re still here to help. In the rest of this buying guide, we take a look at some of the important factors we considered, and you should too so that you can zero in on the perfect boat shoes to take along on your next water adventure.

What Should I Look Out for When Choosing a Good Boat Shoe?

Choosing a good boat shoe should not be a difficult task if you know what to look out for. 

With a lot of options at your disposal, the buying guide would help you navigate through the factors you need to consider when picking out the best boat shoe for you.

What Are the Factors to Consider When Picking Out the Best Boat Shoe?

It takes a while to break into boat shoes. 

Fitting into a boat shoe is very important since you would likely be wearing them without socks and a great fit is essential for traction and grip. You should go for a snugger fit because the longer you wear them; the more they stretch and get loose.

Go for a half size down from your normal size and if you are in-between sizes, go with the smaller of the two. The heel should not move around too much to prevent boat shoe-induced blisters. If your feet get sore quickly, look out for additional features such as padding underfoot and a shoe collar.

Make sure to walk around in the shoes while trying them on so there aren’t any spots that would gap open or chafe your feet. To let your boat shoes break in, try wearing them for shorter periods before wearing them for a full day.

Having a shoe that does not fit is bound to ruin your day and that is one thing you would want to avoid when you are out there on a boat.

Boat shoes need to be well made because of the conditions they are subjected to. When you are on a boat, your shoes are always exposed to the harsh conditions of the water.

The best boat shoes should be durable enough for walking and everyday use.

Boat shoes are mostly made of leather which is a super-strong material. If you take good care of your shoes, it’s bound to last you a very long time.

An important aspect to look for is water and stain-proof boat shoes.

Also, look out for eyelets, make sure they are rust-proof because of the saltwater if not you will end up with a good boat shoe but with rusting eyelets. The durability of a good boat shoe is in the stitching.  Ensure that the stitching is excellent to prevent it from falling apart.

Water resistance

Out on a boat with a shoe that absorbs water and does not dry quickly? Very bad idea. This is why you need to look out for a shoe that is waterproof.

The best boat shoes are meant to have uppers that resist moisture from seeping in or allow water but also dry quickly.

This can be achieved with boat shoes that have water-resistant leather and mesh sides. Leather resists water and it’s hard for any moisture to come through it. Good boat shoes have leather that is specially treated with an oil coating to enhance its water resistance. For mesh uppers, water comes in easily but dries quickly.

Grip and traction

Boat shoes should offer enough traction and grip so you won’t slip on wet surfaces. To get the best boat shoes with good traction, go for the ones that do not come off. Make sure the heels of your shoes are tight to your ankle and it does not slip off. Ideally, boat shoes should have rubber soles so you can have a better grip on wet surfaces.

For the outsole, softer rubber is recommended so they can give the sides of your feet an additional grip. Go for soles that do not leave marks on your boat.

Yes, style is important when getting the best boat shoes but traction and grip should always come first because no one wants to get caught slipping right?

People Also Asked

Boat shoes should not be worn with socks. There is a good chance that your feet would get wet when you are out in the water and wet socks are a no-no because they make your feet damp and prone to soreness and blisters. Socks also make it easy for your feet to sleep in and out of your shoes, so not wearing socks is the safest option.

It depends on the material. Some boat shoes are machine washable and you can just wash them in the washing machine. For other non-machine washable shoes, a toothbrush and some warm soapy water would do the trick. Do make sure you dry them properly too so they don’t smell. Also, air out your shoes after every outing.

Boat shoes are the best fit for casual clothes. A polo shirt or button-down shirt with some nice jeans or shorts is the perfect combo.

Article Contributors

Sail magazine review team.

SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. The SAIL Magazine editorial staff is not involved in the creation of this content. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The SAIL Review Team is composed of authors, editors, and sailors. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.

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MORE PICKS TO CHOOSE FROM

  • Best On A Budget | All in Motion | Find On Target
  • Best For Cold-Weather Sailing  |  Gill  |  Find On Amazon
  • Best For Fishing  |  Columbia |  Find On Amazon
  • Best For Kids  |  Cat & Jack  |  Find On Target
  • Best Quick-Drying  |  The North Face  |  Find On The North Face
  • Best Deck Shoe  |  Sperry  |  Find On Sperry
  • Best For Vacation  |  Columbia  |  Find On Amazon
  • Best Sailing Boots  |  Gill  |  Find On Amazon
  • Most Comfortable | Helly Hansen | Find On Helly Hansen

Whether it's your first time out on the water, going laser sailing, or your umpteenth sailing trip, a good pair of sailing shoes is essential to your safety. Designed specifically for use on wet surfaces and slippery conditions. They'll improve traction and keep your feet comfortable during long days on the boat.

In this guide to sailing shoes, we're highlighting the best sailing shoes on the market from top boat shoe brands and offering helpful tips to ensure you find just the right pair. So grab your sailing hats and let the adventure begin.

What Type Of Shoes Is Best For Sailing?

Sailing shoes are designed specifically for wet conditions, such as on a slippery boat deck or wooden dock. While some are fashioned after athletic shoes, others styles are closer to boots or gaiters. Those referred to as boat shoes or deck shoes are typically made with a canvas or salt water resistant leather upper, a non-marking rubber sole, and a slip-on silhouette similar to a loafer.

Do You Wear Socks With Sailing Shoes?

While some people prefer to go sock-free, most prefer to wear socks with their boat shoes. Without them, you risk getting painful rubs and blisters that can quickly ruin your day on the water. Stick with performance socks designed specifically for use in soggy conditions. Slip a pair of low-cut, no-show socks under your boat shoes for a laid-back, European look that doesn't fall short on protection.

What To Look For In Boat Shoes

Sailing shoes are designed for everything from dinghy sailing to deep-sea fishing, so you'll want to shop for styles designed specifically for your intended end-use. Here are a few key product features that make for a great pair:

Non-slip rubber sole

The primary purpose of sailing shoes is to provide traction. Look for pairs with non-slip, non-marking soles that keep you safe in wet, slippery conditions. Some soles feature durability and anti-slip properties.

Performance fabric

While traditionally crafted with leather, most pairs today are made with quick-drying fabrics with added breathability and water resistance.

Mesh construction

Many boating shoes feature strategically-placed mesh panels to improve ventilation and drain away excess water. They'll help keep your feet dry and comfortable all day long.

Adjustable fit

Any good pair of water shoes is designed with laces or adjustable straps for a customizable fit. If you're shopping for kids, stick with simple velcro straps.

Removable insole

Opt for a pair with fully removable insoles for easy cleaning and faster dry times. Slip them out in between uses so they can fully dry.

Antimicrobial treatments

The best boat shoes are treated with innovative antimicrobial treatments that minimize foot odors, prevent mildew growth, and keep fungal infections at bay.

Avoid flip-flops and open-toe shoes as they are an injury risk, thanks to the number of deck fittings on most yachts.

The 12 Best Sailing Shoes for Every Sailing Adventure

Helly hansen skagen f-1 for every sailing adventure.

Best Sailing Shoes Overall

overall 

Helly Hansen Skagen F-1 For Every Sailing Adventure

These best-selling Skagen F-1 Offshore Men's Sailing Shoes from Helly Hansen are undoubtedly some of the sailing shoes on the market today. Unlike some of the other sailing shoes, their non-marking rubber soles come equipped with a multi-zone traction pattern for an excellent grip on any surface. A seamless, breathable upper protects your feet while traversing rocks or a messy deck full of sailing gear. The padded EVA insole is finished with a quick-drying, antibacterial treatment that keeps blisters and athlete's foot at bay. Whether it's dinghy sailing or offshore fishing, these comfortable sneakers are up for the task.

Coastal sailing, Dinghy, inshore Sailing, Ocean Offshore Sailing

  • Very comfortable and lightweight
  • Dry very fast
  • Narrow design

Helly Hansen AHIGA V4 Hydropower Aqua-Trainers

Best Quick Dry

Helly Hansen AHIGA V4 Hydropower Aqua-Trainers

These Ahiga v4 Hydropower Aqua-Trainers from Helly Hansen make an excellent addition to any woman's sailing gear. The lightweight, water-friendly sneakers come equipped with a high-grade EVA midsole and siped HellyGrip rubber outsole for superior comfort, stability, and arch support. Perhaps that's why they're one of the brand's best-selling styles! Complete with a quick-drying, antimicrobial performance fabric upper and EVA insole, they'll keep your feet dry and protected through any sailing conditions. Sport them for a canoeing trip, a day on the yacht, or even just a trip to the beach!

500g (W) / 600g (M)

  • Excellent grip
  • Light weight
  • Quis nostrud exercitation
  • Sizing doesn't work for everyone

Sperry Sea Kite Moc Boat Shoes

Most Versatile

Sperry Sea Kite Moc Boat Shoes

Looking for a pair of sailing shoes you can wear both on and off the boat? You can't go wrong with a classic pair of Sperrys. These Sea Kite Sport Moc Boat Shoes infuse modern footwear technology with the iconic silhouette of their traditional deck shoes. An Adaptive Wave-Siping design disperses water underfoot to provide traction on wet, slippery surfaces. The molded EVA footbed can be fully removed for easy cleaning and a faster dry time.

  • Extremely comfortable
  • More versatile and range of use
  • Good support and cushion
  • Outstanding weather and slip resistance
  • Sizing may be inconsistent
  • Only available for men

All in Motion's Men's Jay Apparel Water Shoes

Best on a Budget

All in Motion's Men's Jay Apparel Water Shoes

  • Waterproof material
  • Closed-toe design
  • Non-marking outsole
  • Hook-and-loop closure

Shopping on a tight budget? Opt for an affordable pair that's versatile enough for any water adventure. These Jay Apparel Water Shoes from All in Motion combine the traction and support of sailing shoes with the comfort and breathability of water shoes. The waterproof design features a closed toe, non-marking outsole, and adjustable ankle straps with hook-and-loop closures. They'll keep you comfortable and protected no matter what the water throws your way.

100% EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)

beach, pool, outdoor activities

  • Comfortable no matter how wet they get
  • Not available in Women design

Gill Offshore Sailing Boots

Best for Cold-Weather Sailing

Gill Offshore Sailing Boots

  • Warmth and impact protection
  • A double-layer of protection
  • Thermal neoprene

Rigged with a triple-layer design, Gill's Offshore Sailing Boots can be used year-round for more intense sailing adventures. External gaiters with secure elastic cords keep water out and warmth in. A thermo-molded, razor-cut outsole provides superior traction on wet and icy surfaces. Thanks to a reinforced heel, instep, and toe, you'll stay dry and comfortable during long periods on your feet. They're a must-have for offshore fishing.

Outer-100% Nylon. Inner-90% Neoprene 10% Nylon.

  • Excellent value and very high quality
  • Very comfortable
  • Very warm and tons of grip
  • No half size

Columbia Men's Tamiami PFG Boat Shoes

Best for Fishing

Columbia Men's Tamiami PFG Boat Shoes

  • Wet grip performance
  • Comfortable mesh upper
  • Water and stain resistant
  • Vented midsole

If you're shopping for weekend fishing trips, try these Tamiami PFG Boat Shoes. They're specifically designed for everyday wear on and off the boat. Equipped with Omni-Shield, the treated mesh and synthetic fabric upper repels water and avoids stains to keep your feet clean and dry. Razor sipping throughout the non-marking, non-slip soles guarantees a superior grip on any wet or dry surface. A lace-up front closure, heel tab, and sporty silhouette deliver style in addition to durability. With five colors to choose from, they're an easy addition to your active wardrobe.

Mesh / Synthetic Overlays

  • Design available for women and men
  • So comfortable and very lightweight
  • Very good quality 
  • Perfect for everyday life
  • Can be a little hard to put on

Cat & Jack Oscar Toddler Water Shoes

Best for Kids

Cat & Jack Oscar Toddler Water Shoes

  • Pull-on tab

These Oscar Toddler Water Shoes from Cat & Jack will keep your little ones safe, whether they're fishing off the side of the boat or cannon-balling off the side of the dock. The closed-toe design prevents sand, rocks, and small debris from getting inside, while a treaded rubber sole provides a great grip on slippery surfaces. An adjustable heel strap with a pull-tab and hook-and-loop closure offers a secure, comfortable fit. At just $15, they're an easy, affordable option to toss into your beach bag or carry-on suitcase.

100% Polyester

  • Easy to put on
  • Offer a secure fit

The North Face Skagit Water Shoes

Best Lightweight

The North Face Skagit Water Shoes

  • Quick-drying
  • Lightweight
  • Antimicrobial mesh upper
  • Mono-mesh screens
  • Toggle closure

No matter the sailing adventure, these Skagit Water Shoes from The North Face are up for the task. Mono-mesh screens prevent debris from entering the shoe while allowing water to escape through the EVA midsole drainage system. The quick-drying, lightweight mesh upper is finished with innovative anti-odor and anti-microbial protection. Toggle closures eliminate annoying (and potentially dangerous) untied laces. A proprietary EXTS outside traction system offers superior traction on wet decks, slippery rocks, and dry land too. Needless to say, they're a wise addition to any adventurer's footwear repertoire.

9.4 oz (265 g)

  • Dry really quickly
  • No half sizes

Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoes

Best Deck Shoe

Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoes

  • 360° Lacing System
  • Wave-Siping for enhanced traction
  • Hand-sewn construction

Full-grain leather uppers

Hit the boat deck (and the dockside restaurant) in style with Sperry's Authentic Original Boat Shoes. The time-tested silhouette offers the perfect balance of function and style. They're still hand-sewn using traditional craftsmanship techniques and premium full-grain leather. A 360-degree lacing system and Ortholite insole keep you comfortable during long days on your feet. Finished with the brand's signature Sperry Razor-Cut Wave-Siping, the preppy boat shoes provide an excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces. Offered in a range of color combinations, there's something stylish for everyone's boating wardrobe.

  • Available in different width
  • Not waterproof or water resistant

Columbia Men's Bahama Boat Shoes

Best for Vacation

Columbia Men's Bahama Boat Shoes

  • Vent midsole ports
  • Non-marking wet grip
  • Combination of canvas and leather upper

These Columbia Men's Bahama Boat Shoes make an excellent choice for an upcoming beach vacation and shoes for sailing. They're functional enough for the sailboat and stylish enough for a dockside meal. An Omni-Shield textile upper and rubber sole offer lightweight, breathable protection and support. Available in an assortment of color options, they're an easy addition to any man's summer wardrobe.

Canvas / Leather upper

7.8 oz. / 222g (Size 9, 1/2 pair)

  • Easy on and off
  • Nice quality shoe
  • Can feel stiff at first

Gill Aero Sailing Boots

Best Sailing Boots

Gill Aero Sailing Boots

  • Maximum grip
  • Neoprene and waterproof seamsNon marking rubber sole

If you're a dedicated sailor, it's worth adding a pair of sailing boots to your footwear repertoire. These Aero Sailing Boots from Gill offer maximum comfort, security, and traction. Crafted from 5mm neoprene with waterproof seams and zippers, your feet stay warm and dry no matter the conditions. The wrap-around, non-marking rubber sole features a reinforced heel, toe, and bridge support for added flexibility and a full range of motion. While they're suitable for any boating occasion, they're versatile enough for dinghy sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking too.

‎90% Neoprene, 10% Nylon

dinghy sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking

  • Keep you warm
  • Comfortable
  • Great construction and fit
  • Sizing may run small
  • Calf area can run small
  • Difficult to get off and on

Helly Hansen Women's Ahiga Slip-On Sailing Shoes

Most Comfortable

Helly Hansen Women's Ahiga Slip-On Sailing Shoes

Helly Hansen's Ahiga Slip-On Sailing Shoes offer all-day comfort and excellent reactions. It's got the same ergonomic midsole, treaded outsole, and water-resistant textile upper as the brand's best-selling Ahiga V4 shoes with a simple slip-on design. An antimicrobial treatment minimizes odors and helps keep athlete's feet away. They're a worthy splurge for any sailor with limited mobility.

Inshore sailing and marine lifestyle

  • Super-light, breathable and comfortable
  • Excellent cushioning
  • Quick and easy to put on
  • Good nonslip sole
  • Only available in one color

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About the Author

Fiona Perisone

Fiona is a veteran travel consultant, photographer and travel writer at planetrider.com. She has spent many years as a corporate travel consultant and decided to actually live the life rather than plan it for others!

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Best boat shoes: 8 great styles for any budget

Look for these critical features that define the best boat shoes on the market, and you'll find solid footing aboard any vessel!

Boat shoes or deck shoes have long been ubiquitous on the yachting scene, at the beach, and for practically any occasion requiring dressed-down casual attire.

From traditional hand-stitched leather topsiders to high-performance technical deck trainers , today’s best boat shoes have evolved to cover every conceivable need in the marine environment.

8 of the best boat shoes

Sperry men’s billfish 3-eye boat shoes.

Best boat shoes for men

Men are tough on footwear, and saltwater environments make it important to choose a boating shoe that is up to the challenge.

This design is constructed with leather uppers and integrated mesh panels, offering the perfect blend of durability and fast-drying comfort.

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Leather provides support, while perforated panels reduce weight, increase breathability, and help control odor.

The Sperry Billfish 3-Eye Boat Shoe ticks all the boxes. As the name suggests, this shoe is especially at home on the deck of a big-game fishing boat .

If you plan to spend time on a sailing vessel, you’ll appreciated the waved siping, which is rolled onto the outsole to offer traction at any angle of heel.

This shoe is a little on the heavy side and therefore most suitable to temperate rather than tropical climates.

Reasons to buy

• Rugged construction for extended abuse. • Extra support and all-day comfort. • Classic styling suitable for any casual occasion.

Reasons to avoid

• Some consumers report quality control issues. • Heavy construction is not as appropriate for extremely warm environments.

Buy from Amazon Buy from Sperry

Note: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Best Boat Shoes for Women

Chatham Pippa II G2 boat shoes

Best boat shoes for women

Style and comfort are hallmarks of Chatham deck shoes, and the G2 line is their top-shelf product.

Constructed of water-resistant leather with a siped rubber sole, the Pippa II G2 Women’s Boat Shoe is as functional and durable as it is stylish. Waxed thread prevents rot, and the eyelets are corrosion-resistant.

All G2 shoes feature Chatham’s proprietary Sole Spring technology for cushioning and comfort.

Anti-bacterial insoles make them a joy to wear, year after year. Because the G2 is Chatham’s premium line, all models come with a 2-year guarantee. This is a great shoe from “A Great British Company”.

• A superior blend of quality and style. • Well-cushioned footbed. • Anti-bacterial materials.

• A high-end shoe with a high-end price. • Leather shoes are not as fast-drying as a synthetic ones.

Buy from Chatham

A classic moc-toe boat shoe by Sperry.

Sperry Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoes

Best classic boat shoe

American inventor Paul A. Sperry introduced the world’s first boating shoe in 1935. Originally doing business as Sperry Top-Sider, the Sperry brand is now synonymous with yachting style and performance.

Although the company’s first shoe sported a canvas upper, Sperry’s Authentic Original 2-Eye boat shoe retains the classic look of the original in water-resistant leather.

This hand-stitched moccasin features leather laces in a slotted collar for a snug fit under the ankle bones.

Rust-resistant eyelets mean years of reliable performance in corrosive environments. The Authentic Original is available for men and women in narrow through extra-wide widths (depending on size and style).

• Traditional looks in a time-tested design. • Lightweight for all-day comfort. • Full-grain leather is more durable than many synthetics uppers. • Versatile footwear on and off the water.

• Moderately expensive. • Not as fast-drying as synthetic uppers.

Best Boat Shoes on a Budget

Skechers Go Walk Lite

Best cheap boat shoes for women

Not every boat shoe has to cost a fortune. If you are looking for an affordable shoe that will perform light duties on deck but is just as suitable for everyday use, here are two brands to fit the bill.

For women, the highly rated Skechers Go Walk Lite is a bona fide boat shoe with a sneaker fit and yachty style.

The canvas-and-leather upper offers a great combination of moisture-wicking and support over a well-cushioned footbed.

A high instep gives firm arch support, and as the name suggests, the Go Walk Lite is a great choice to pack for ultralight travel.

• A shoe with both style and substance. • Very competitive price point. • High online consumer rating.

• Not siped like a traditional boat shoe. • Lightly constructed

Buy Go Walk Lite from Amazon

World Wide Sportsman Nantucket III

Best cheap boat shoes for men

Men looking for value in a boat shoe should consider the World Wide Sportsman Nantucket III.

It is a convenient slip-on constructed of soft nubuck leather and ventilated mesh at a competitive price.

A padded leather collar and cupped insole offer more support than lightweight slip-ons made of canvas. The heavily siped tread provides traction where you need it most.

• Convenience of a slip-on with the support of a sneaker. • Fast-drying upper constructed of leather and synthetic mesh. • Very comfortable.

• Consumer reviews report quality control issues. • A bit heavy for hot climates.

Buy Nantucket III from Cabela’s

boat shoes yachting

Chatham Aegean Technical Boat Shoe

Best technical boat shoe

Technical apparel is designed with a specific activity in mind. For a boat shoe, that means special attention is paid to traction, fit and performance.

Well-known for its moccasin-style boat shoes, Chatham’s Aegean is more of a hybrid construction, with a sneaker fit specifically designed for active deck work.

Fast-drying leather uppers and drain holes in the bottom of the sole help control moisture, airflow, and temperature.

The proprietary tread is where this shoe has an edge on the competition. In addition to integrated drainage, the Aegean’s Aqua-Go sole is a blend of rubber and latex with pronounced siping under the big toe for added grip.

A foam-filled footbed offers extra cushioning and tactile responsiveness on deck.

• Designed specifically for performance sailing. • Holds up well to saltwater environments. • The rugged build includes a reinforced toe well, tongue pulls, and heavy-duty laces. • A fast-drying shoe that sheds water through drain holes.

• They are expensive. • Leather may stretch up to one-half size after use.

boat shoes yachting

Rugged Shark Pacifico Slip-On

Best slip-on boat shoe

Nothing beats a slip-on for ease of use, and the Rugged Shark Pacifico offers the perfect blend of convenience and performance.

Elastic gussets at the tongue make the Pacifico your go-to footwear for everyday use. But don’t be fooled by the house-slipper comfort, these are tried-and-true boat shoes.

Water-resistant nubuck leather and mesh uppers combine with drain holes through the footbed to shed water.

The sole is a hybrid configuration of a moderately lugged tread and traditional siping along the edges and under critical traction points.

This combination offers all-terrain functionality without compromising grip on deck.

A padded leather collar and cushiony midsole make this a great everyday choice for use at sea, on land, or around the yacht club.

• Good value. • All-terrain traction. • Easy wearing comfort. • Stylish enough for casual occasions.

• Runs narrow in the toe well. • No laces to adjust fit.

Buy from Amazon Buy from Cabela’s

boat shoes yachting

Sperry Authentic Original Float

Best multi-purpose boat shoe

An all-synthetic deck shoe is best if you need footwear that can pull double duty in multiple watery environments.

Sperry’s Float boating shoe has the look and functionality of dedicated yachting footwear, with the construction mindset of a general-purpose water shoe.

The wave-siped outsole ensures maximum traction on deck, while the topside portholes and side vents instantly drain water after wading, fishing, or kayaking.

Constructed of one-piece EVA foam uppers, the Float is super lightweight and waterproof. As the name suggests, they even float!

This model is available in a multitude of colours for men and women. But be sure to choose carefully when shopping for this shoe on Amazon; some sizes and colour options appear to have a fleece lining.

• Affordability. • All-around water shoe for activities from sailing to kayaking. • Fully siped outsole for wet-dry traction. • Extreme venting of non-absorbent materials for quick drying.

• No half sizes. • Can run a little large.

What to look for in the best boat shoes

Aside from matters of personal style, there are a few traits to look for in any purpose-built deck shoe. The two most critical characteristics are a non-marking tread and wet-dry traction. Look for a sole fabricated of rubber or other synthetic material specifically labelled as non-marking.

For traction, the outsole should be properly siped. Simply put, this means a pattern of slits cut into the tread to increase surface area and grip.

The ability to shed moisture is also important – synthetic materials dry faster than even the most water-resistant leather, which can lead to odor problems, so consider how often your feet will get wet.

If you only need traction and comfort on deck with the occasional wave washing over the bulwarks then leather is a great choice, especially in a deck shoe intended for casual wear.

But if you plan to do any wading, such as when launching a boat off a trailer, fast-drying synthetics are a better choice.

Fit is another important consideration. Bear in mind that lace-up shoes will be more adjustable than slip-ons.

For ultimate support, opt for a stout leather upper featuring a padded collar and an insole with substantial arch support.

As a general rule, boat shoes tend to run on the narrow side, so if you’re looking for the best boat shoes for wide feet , carefully study the manufacturer’s size chart.

Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated boating page for more marine products.

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Best Sailing Shoes of 2024

Thinking about sailing shoes may bring up visions of well-dressed people lounging on deck in — you guessed it — deck shoes. These are most likely in nautical colors paired with a Breton t-shirt and chinos to complete the look. That’s what the adverts say anyway. But finding the best sailing shoes for you involves a lot more than a Monaco-backdrop.

Sailing shoes provide all sorts of protection and are a key part of your sailing equipment. Finding the right sailing shoes means taking into account lots of variables, including the kind of sailing you’re planning on doing. We don’t like cold feet or busted toes here at The Adventure Junkies, so read on to learn about the best sailing shoes for you.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailing Hats .

QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST SAILING SHOES

  • Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoe
  • GILL Tall Yachting Boots
  • Gill Trapeze Sailing Boots
  • GILL Competition Sailing Boots
  • Rugged Shark Great White Deck Boots
  • Helly Hansen Midsund 2 Rain Boots
  • Sperry Sojourn Duck Chukka Boots
  • Body Glove Seek Watershoe
  • Dubarry Ultima Stretch Boots
  • RONSTAN Superflex Boots

SAILING SHOES REVIEWS

Sperry authentic original boat shoe.

Check out the latest price on: Amazon

BEST FOR: Casual cruising yacht sailors

WOMEN’S VERSION: Sperry Authentic Original Two-Eye Boat Shoes

MATERIAL: Full-grain leather

BREATHABLE: Yes

PROS: Smart look, EVA foam footbed for cushioning, leather inner sock, siped outsole gives reliable grip

CONS: Need leather care to prevent salt damage

DUBARRY ULTIMA STRETCH BOOTS

Check out the latest price on: West Marine

BEST FOR: Cruising and racing sailors

WOMEN’S VERSION: N/A

MATERIAL: Cordura

PROS: Easy slip-on design, durable Cordura material, fast drying water resistant finish, stretching Lycra panel, GORE-TEX lining, classic look

CONS: Expensive, need washing in freshwater for optimal longevity

GILL TALL YACHTING BOOTS

WOMEN’S VERSION: Gill Tall Yachting Boots

MATERIAL: Rubber

BREATHABLE: No

PROS: Waterproof, reinforced instep plus toe and heel, hardwearing, quick-dry lining removable insole, tie top

CONS: Not very low-profile, not very warm in cold climates

GILL TRAPEZE SAILING BOOTS

BEST FOR: Keen dingy and small boat racing sailors

MATERIAL: Neoprene

PROS: Reinforced top side, grippy soles, 5mm neoprene offers warmth, VELCRO fastening

CONS: Can be very tight-fitting, pricey for beginners

GILL COMPETITION SAILING BOOTS

BEST FOR: Serious dinghy sailors

WOMEN’S VERSION: Gill Competition Sailing Boots

PROS: Quick-dry lining, excellent grip, reinforced instep plus toe and heel, low-profile for fast movement

CONS: Pricey, not breathable for hot weather

RUGGED SHARK GREAT WHITE DECK BOOTS

BEST FOR: Boat fishing trips, tough weather conditions

PROS: Great for heavy weather, warm with socks, soft cuff, removable cushioning footbed, good grip

CONS: Heavy and clumpy

HELLY HANSEN MIDSUND 2 RAIN BOOTS

WOMEN’S VERSION: Hello Hansen Women’s Midsund 2 Rain Boots

PROS: Excellent grip gum rubber soles, back pull tab, suitable for boat use and land use

CONS: Wide tread may pick up stones and gravel, no tightening cord on cuff

SPERRY SOJOURN DUCK CHUKKA BOOTS

BEST FOR: Coastal cruising sailors

MATERIAL: Leather/Rubber

PROS: Rubber toes plus leather upper create comfortable waterproofing, neoprene bootie adds extra support, removable compression molded footbed, anti-microbe treatment on footbed, rustproof eyelets

CONS: Wide tread pattern could pick up gravel on land

BODY GLOVE SEEK WATERSHOE

BEST FOR: Beginner dinghy sailors

MATERIAL: Neoprene/Mesh

PROS: Easy to slip on, VELCRO and bungee closure, non-slip reinforced sole

CONS: No cold protection, no ankle support

RONSTAN SUPERFLEX BOOTS

BEST FOR: Warm water dinghy sailing

PROS: Very flexible for full range of motion, ankle seal stops most water getting in, bridge strap for support, padded heel

CONS: Little ankle support, may not take heavy use

COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST SAILING SHOES

How to choose the best sailing shoes, type of sailing.

Equipment and clothing that you require for sailing very much depend on what type of sailing you’ll be doing. Whether it’s dinghy racing or classic cruising, your footwear needs to be right.

DINGHY SAILING

Dinghy sailing is probably the wettest kind of sailing (unless you’re into extreme performance yachts!) and so your dinghy sailing shoes need to cope. Dinghy sailing also involves shifting your body and weight quickly so clumpy shoes just aren’t going to cut it.

To keep your feet warm and easy to move in wet conditions, most dinghy sailors wear wetsuit booties. Made from neoprene , these types of boots come in different thicknesses depending on what temperatures you’ll be sailing in. Some dinghy sailing booties also have reinforced top sections so they don’t wear out when you’re feet are under the straps.

Cruising tends to be a much more laid back affair than dinghy sailing and shoe choice is much larger. From deck shoes to sailing wellies, your footwear choice will depend on your boat, the conditions and whether you need to go on deck or not.

The main consideration for cruising sailors is a non-marking sole. Black rubber marks are a big no-no on any boat! Cruising shoes should be reasonable waterproof in case waves come over, but also grippy, comfortable and easy to clean.

While many cruising yachts can also race, the act of racing is a more extreme form of sailing. What does that mean? It means that you’ll probably have a lot more water washing along the decks and into the cockpit.

Yachts may also be more heeled over when racing than other types of sailing so it’s easier to slip. If you want to do some racing or will be sailing a racing yacht, grippy soles are a must. Sailing shoes should also be waterproof and with a low-profile so you can move quickly should you need to.

LOCATION AND WEATHER

Will you be sailing on a lake? At sea? In big waves? In flat water? Will it be cold? Hot? Tropical? No one wants cold feet right?

If you’re sailing in a cold water area, you should plan your shoes for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Why? Because when the wind crosses water, it will often cool to the temperature of the water. Even on a hot, sunny day, sailing can get chilly if the water is cool.

In cold weather, numb toes can be a real problem. If you’re planning on cold water sailing then remember to leave room in sailing shoes for warm, thick socks.

On the flip side, if you’ll be sailing in warm seas and hot sun, you’ll need breathable sailing shoes that won’t leave your feet sweaty. Shows made from leather, mesh or GORE-TEX are usually very breathable.

Sailing shoes come in all sorts of materials, mainly suited to conditions and environment. Dinghy sailing shoes need to allow you to swim in them should you capsize, hence being made out of neoprene. The thicker the neoprene, the warmer they’ll keep your feet.

Other sailing shoes can be made out of rubber or plastic. These materials are waterproof, making them good for cold water sailing. Rubber isn’t breathable though, so for warmer weather, leather or breathable synthetics are a good choice.

Non-marking soles are crucial for any type of boat. A passenger or crew member with a marking sole is liable to be made to walk the plank. Luckily, it’s hard to find marking soles in the sailing shoe industry. All the sailing shoes featured in our reviews have non-marking soles.

Grippy soles are important as decks and cockpits can get very slippery. However, deep tread isn’t necessarily good and can pick up stones and gravel ashore which then scratch the gelcoat and wood on a boat.

Neoprene booties usually have reinforced soles for longevity and extra comfort when walking up dinghy ramps. Cheaper booties might lack this feature and could wear out much faster but are great for beginners .

Uncomfortable shoes are terrible so it seems like a no-brainer to buy comfortable sailing shoes. But there’s often more to it than ordinary shoes.

For instance, will you always be wearing socks? Sometimes, you might need to get out on deck quickly when you have to reef a sail . You may not have time to put socks on, so can you still wear and walk in your shoes without them?

Do you find shoes often rub? If so, finding shoes with a softer opening might be a good idea. Blisters can get infected in saltwater environments, especially if you’re sailing in the sub-tropics and tropics.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Sailboat Anchors

Sailboat Winches

Sailing Shoes

Solar Panels for Sailboats

Bilge Pumps

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

For seafarers and landlubbers alike.

best boat shoes for men

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

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.

Atlantic Moc Toe Boat Shoe

Best everyday boat shoes

Florsheim atlantic moc toe boat shoe.

Tree Skipper Shoes for Men

Best Athletic Boat Shoes

Allbirds tree skipper shoes for men.

Authentic Original Float Boat Shoe

Best water boat shoes

Sperry authentic original float boat shoe.

4.ZERØGRAND Regatta Boat Shoe

Most comfortable boat shoes

Cole haan 4.zerøgrand regatta boat shoe.

Braided Lace Loafer

Best hybrid boat shoes

Swims braided lace loafer.

Nautico Boat Shoe

Best premium boat shoes

Adelante nautico boat shoe.

Higley Tie

Best casual boat shoes

Clark higley tie.

Beacon Boat Shoe

Best value boat shoes

Dockers beacon boat shoe.

Gordons Bay Boat Shoe

Most durable boat shoes

Rodd and gunn gordons bay boat shoe.

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.

Best Travel Shoes | Best Slides | Best Sandals | Best Business Casual Shoes | Best Casual Shoes | Best Breathable Sneakers

The 10 Absolute Best Boat Shoes for Men

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

More Boat Shoes We Love

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Eddie Bauer Haller Slip-On

Haller Slip-On

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.

Columbia PFG Slack Tide™ Boat Shoe

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.

Sperry SeaCycled™ Authentic Original™ Baja Boat Shoe

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Sea Star Beachwear Mariner Slip-on

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.

Johnston & Murphy Cort Venetian

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.

Sail Leather Premium Boat Shoes

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.

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Christian Gollayan oversees e-commerce content for Men's Health and Women's Health. Previously, he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in Food & Wine, InStyle, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.

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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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Olin Boat Shoe by Yacht Perfect.  Finally, a better boat shoe.

Finally, A Better Boat Shoe.

Olin boat shoe on beach

Grippy, Non-Marking Boat Soles

Natural rubber boat shoe soles made from virgin hevea milk, not plastic. 

Top view of the best boat shoes for sailing

No SOCKS REQUIRED

A plush leather boat shoe on the inside because sailors hate wearing socks.

The best boat shoes for sailing shown near a sailboat

MODERN CLASSIC STYLing

Designed by sailors in Massachusetts and handmade by artisans in Italy.

Life is too short to wear ugly boat shoes.

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Cruising Sea

Best Boat Shoes For Sailing-The Perfect Blend of Fit!

Best Boat Shoes For Sailing 2023

Who doesn’t like to go barefoot on a boat? After all, it’s relaxing and comfortable. But the problem when going barefoot is that your feet are more exposed to injuries and burns, which you don’t want. So to keep your feet in good shape,  it would be better to wear shoes but not just any. You need a good pair of boating footwear that is comfortable, stable, grippy, waterproof, and dries quickly.

I don’t know about you, but when it comes to choosing a pair of shoes, I always look for the best quality, even though I have to pay a higher price. At least, I am sure that I don’t just throw money out the window, and I get what I paid for.

However, there are several things to consider when choosing a good pair of boating footwear, and it’s not always easy to find the ones that correspond to your needs. Here is a list of the 12 best boat shoes for sailing in 2023 to help you make the best decision!

Post Updated: 15 January 2023

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission. Thanks.”

  • TOP PICK: KEEN Men’s Newport H2
  • BEST RATED: Sperry Mens Bahama Ii
  • ALSO GREAT: Columbia Men’s Bahama Vent PFG Boat Shoe

Table of Contents

1. Keen Newport Boating Sandals

There is no doubt that you’ll feel great the moment you’ll put these sandals on your feet! They are so comfy that you could find yourself still wearing them in the winter.

Whether it is for sailing, hiking, biking, fishing, walking, or working, the Keen men’s H2 sandal will always make your feet happy!

These shoes provide comfort and are designed to protect feet against injuries. There are many sorts of boating sandals out there, but Keen did an excellent job by including all the characteristics sailors would have ever dreamed of.

Average Rank: 4.7 out of 5

KEEN Men's Newport H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals

  • Excellent for sailing trips, water sports, and all kinds of outdoor activities
  • The sole provides exceptional traction on wet surfaces.
  • Easy to slip on and off
  • Easy to go from land to water and vice-versa
  • The closed-toe design helps prevents feet injuries
  • Pebble and sand can get in the sandals easily.
  • They are more pricey than regular sandals, but they are worth every penny!
  • The nylon dries quicker than the ladder version.

Final word!

The Newport H2 is so strong that you can look forward to wearing them many years from the moment you open the box!

2. Sperry Men’s Bahama Ii Boat Shoe

The Sperry men’s Bahama II is a comfortable pair of boat shoes made of undyed canvas material, making them comfortable to wear all day.

These high-end boat shoes have a nice hand-sewn construction with Rawhide lace. It’s a strong leather made from dairy cows, making them very souple and durable.

The eyelets on these shoes are rustproof, so even if they get in contact with salt water, they won’t get any corrosion stains. They are also machine washable, which simplifies life—no need to clean them by hand, although they are very easy to clean and dry fast. 

These have a non-marking rubber outsole with molded wave-sipping technology. So you can be sure these will keep your feet stable on the deck or other surfaces. Plus, they don’t leave any marks. 

Average Rank: 4.6 out of 5

Sperry Men's Bahama II Boat Shoe, SW White, 7 M US

  • Grip exceptionally well
  • Machine washable
  • Some users said that they rubbed against the heel.
  • Several reviewers reported that they fit a half size too big.

Final Words

The Sperry Bahama Ii fits great. It’s lightweight and breathable.  

As you can see by the rating, people love these boat shoes. They felt like walking around on bare feet so much that they were comfortable.

On top of that, they are stylish and durable, and if you take care of them well, they will last for years.

3. Columbia Men’s Bahama Boat Shoe

If you often go fishing, kayaking, boating, or hiking, having a great pair of water shoes designed for both function and comfort is what you may be looking for.

The Columbia Bahamas shoes are waterproof, stain-resistant, and have a full-grain leather and canvas construction, making them breathable, lightweight, and comfortable to wear all day. The insole is mesh and cushiony, providing excellent support for walking around towns, islands, and on the beach.

Plus, the insole is removable, which is practical if you need to replace it with orthotics or wash it separately. Not to mention, the mesh has tiny ventilated holes that allow exceptional ventilation. No doubt that these shoes will keep your feet cool all day in the summer—the sole features holes on the sides to enable the water to escape. According to many reviewers, they drain water sand, and pebbles nicely.

The Columbia Bahama is a slip-on shoe; thanks to the strap at the back, you can put them on and off quickly without effort. Another great feature is the Omni-Grip outsole; it’s a multi-terrain traction system built into the rubber outsole to maximize grip on wet surfaces. These come in multiple colors and sizes, giving you lots of choices.

Columbia PFG Men's Bahama Vent PFG Boat Shoe, Waterproof & Breathable Shoe, ti Titanium/Pool, 8.5 Regular US

  • Comfortable
  • Drain water, sand, and pebbles nicely
  • Lightweight
  • A few customers reported that they run a little large.
  • Several buyers said the seams came apart after a few days of wearing them.
  • Some users wished the shoes were more ventilated.

The Columbia Bahamas is a stylish slip-on shoe that is comfortable and keeps feet aerated all day. Plus, they dry super fast and are very easy to wash. In short, the perfect pair of water shoes for boating or enjoying watersports in the summer.

4. Sperry Top-Sider Escape Bungee

There are so many good things to say about the Sperry Top-Sider Escape Bungee.

Light, airy, comfortable, and stylish are the primary qualities that this fantastic pair of boat shoes provide!

Not only you’ll be able to use them for boating but also for many other activities without feeling you have shoes on.

Average Rank: 3.9 out of 5

Sperry Women's H2O Escape Grey Size 9.5

  • The footbed is removable.
  • They provide great traction on a wet fiberglass deck.
  • These boat shoes absorb shock, preventing back and foot pain thanks to their anti-shock and vibration technology.
  • Ultra quick drying
  • Ultra Lightweight
  • The soles deteriorate quickly if wearing them often.

They look good. They are comfortable and ultra-lightweight. In other words, these are perfect for boating and outdoor activities. What more can you ask for?

5. Sperry Sea Kite Sports Boat Shoe

Whether to spend time on the water, look great on any occasion, or practice any sports activities, the Sperry Sea Kite Sports Boat Shoe will always astonish you!

It is a mix of sailing and walking shoes that are extremely comfortable to wear with or without socks!

Average Rank: 4.5 out of 5

Sperry Mens Sea Kite Sport Moc Boat Shoe, Grey, 7

  • Provide more support than any other regular Sperry shoes
  • The extra support help maximize protection against irritations to the ankles
  • Excellent traction
  • Extremely durable
  • The removable insole is made of synthetic fabric and not leather
  • They are a bit narrow compared to other regular shoes, but after wearing them for a few days, they stretch out.

Final world!

The Sea Kite is an all-in-one and exceptional shoe at a great price!

6. Adidas Climacool Boat Lace

I am sure you’ve already heard of Adidas…who hasn’t:)

This Brand has never really disappointed anyone as far as I know, including me, and continues to surprise me with the new pair of sailing footwear, Adidas Climacool Boat Lace!

These shoes are mainly designed for boating as well as for all kinds of watersports, as they have all the features that sailors need. They drain and dry fast; they grip fantastically, and they are ultra-lightweight!

adidas outdoor Men's Climacool Boat Lace-M, Core Black/Chalk, 6.5 M US

  • They dry fast
  • Nice looking shoes
  • The mesh inner sole makes the shoes very comfortable
  • The holes in the bottom of the shoes allow the water out easily
  • Easy to slip them on and off
  • Provide great traction
  • Wearing them without socks may irritate the feet.
  • Pebbles and sand can get under the insole, which may make them uncomfortable to wear.
  • They are not designed to walk on land for extended periods

Overall, it’s a good pair of shoes. These are designed for boating and all sorts of watersports, but I wouldn’t suggest using them for any outdoor activities!

7. Columbia Powerdrain

If you want to spoil your feet, then look no further than the Columbia Powerdrain. These shoes will exceed all your expectations regarding comfort, lightness, and traction! These are excellent for water sports use, but I’ve heard from various people that they use them as well for many onshore activities, and they are very happy with the product.

One of them even said that she wouldn’t have to pack different pairs of shoes as she finds all she needs in the Columbia Powerdrain. She must have saved lots of space in her baggage!

  Average Rank: 4.5 out of 5

Columbia Women's Powerdrain Water Shoe,Black/Hanalei,5 M US

  • The Omni-Freeze ZERO technology allows drains water
  • Dry quickly, thanks to the external TPU frame support
  • Provide excellent support
  • Ultra lightweight
  • The insole may come out when wearing them for a while without socks.
  • Pebbles and sand may get inside the shoes
  • Not designed for walking long distances

The Columbia Powerdrain is an excellent pair of shoes for water sports activities

8. Sperry Top-Sider Men’s ASV Shock Boat Shoe

This is Sperry’s first performance boat shoe with new innovations perfect for days in the water. Athletic-designed footwear with a super lightweight feature that will keep your feet comfortable all day. They have an Adaptive Wave-Siping™, providing awesome traction on wet surfaces. The ASV Technology reduces vibration and shock while walking. The Removable full-length Molded Footbed provides the ultimate comfort for the feet.

Average Rank: 4.2 out of 5

Sperry Men's ASV Shock Lite Bungee Boat Shoe,Grey,11.5 M US

  • Its ultra-lightweight design makes it easy to walk with.
  • The mesh upper fits snuggly to the feet.
  • Perfect for any surface because of the rubber sole
  • Easy to wear for its adjustable bungee.
  • The heel cushion gives the perfect arch support to your feet.
  • Due to its nylon and mesh upper design, the frays go off easily.
  • Not the type of shoes that last for years

If you are looking for a boat shoe that is easy to wear, comfortable, and looks stylishly athletic at the same time, Sperry Top-Sider Men’s ASV Shock Light Bungee is for you. However, the nylon/mesh design does not last long as it wears and tears in a few months of continuous use. Thus, not a long-term investment.

9. Irish Setter Lakeside

These are rugged boat shoes that are meant to keep your feet dry and bring you comfort. They feature a Dynamic Spine System intended to reduce fatigue, absorbing the shock on the sole and non-marking rubber sole to keep your balance on any surface. These are rugged distressed shoes that do not only provide support but flexibility too.

Irish Setter Men's Lakeside Slip-On Boat Shoe size 11 Brown

  • More than a boat shoe, it can be worn for business casual attire, with or without socks.
  • It has a superior grip on most surfaces.
  • Easy to wear as it is a slip-on.
  • Durability. It can stand the test of time.
  • Sturdy and well-constructed
  • Not available in another color.
  • Not suitable for long walking or running

Finale Words!

This is a versatile boat shoe that is not limited to fishing and sailing, a perfect investment for any man in their wardrobe. The design, although limited in color, gives off an overall rugged look without the discomfort as the shoe keeps you safe, dry, and comfortable at the same time.

10. Skechers Performance Women’s Go Step-Seashore Boating Shoe

Made of 100% Textile with Rubber Soles to keep your balance and grip on any surface. The Skechers GoImpulse Sensor Technology provides flexibility to the sole. It has Goga Max insole. A lightweight shoe with cushion memory for maximum comfort.

Skechers Go Performance Women Size 7.5

  • The design is classically stylish and comfortable. You can wear them anywhere.
  • The slip-on feature makes it easy to wear.
  • Durable, as seen on the stitches on the shoes.
  • Super lightweight
  • You can choose from leather to canvas style.
  • No built arch support
  • Not advisable for people who use orthotics

Final Words!

The Skechers Performance Boat Shoes are perfect for the adventurous office worker who wants to use them in the office and the great outdoors. However, they might not suit people with foot problems who require the use of orthotics.

11. Skechers Performance Women’s On-The-Go Flagship Slip-On Boat Shoe

The On-The-Go Flagship Slip-On is made of perforated synthetic upper material with a slip-on lace-up design. Moc toe. The Goga Mat™ technology and Resalyte™ Midsole provide comfort on the sole due to its lightweight features. Flexible outsole. It has a soft fabric lining and lightweight and responsive cushioning.

Skechers Performance Womens On-The-Go Unwind Walking Shoe,Natural Plaid,5.5 M US

  • It has Arch support better than other shoes.
  • Lightweight and feels like you are walking on clouds.
  • Memory foam that gives ultimate comfort
  • Perfect for outdoor adventures like mud fishing, trails, and pavement walking
  • Cost cheaper than the regular Skechers
  • Some shoes were reported to have odor problems
  • Run a bit wide on the heel

Skechers Performance Women’s On-The-Go Flagship Slip-On Boat Shoe is perfect for stylish women who want to keep using the same shoe indoors and outdoors. Odor problems can be easily fixed with footpowder, so overall, this is a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. Be classy and chic while sailing.

12. ALEADER Men’s Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

Aleader has drainage ports to drain water. These shoes are super light and dry in no time. They have rubber pods for additional traction offering foot performance for water sports or water aerobics activities. FluidFlow Technology. The upper mesh material provides excellent drainage through the small holes and insole, allowing quick drying. These boat shoes allow exceptional airflow, keeping your feet cool in the summer. Great rubber outsole and Solyte midsole, enhancing comfort and traction.

Average Rank: 4.4 out of 5

ALEADER Men's Quick Drying Aqua Water Shoes

  • The holes in the bottom drain out water thoroughly
  • They dried out quickly.
  • Comfortable due to the ComforDry sock liner and arch support.
  • Provides excellent traction.
  • Lightweight and easy to pack.
  • The soles collect rocks and debris.
  • Getting it wet and sandy provides a scratchy feeling on the feet

Acqua shoes are perfect for any water activities as they drain water and dry easily. However, it does not bring the same comfort as other boat shoes with a thick soles. Recommended for those quick trips at the beach and for water sports such as sailing, but not to be used in pebbly or sandy terrain.

Guide to Choosing the Right Pair of Boat Shoes 

Boat shoes or also known as deck shoes and topsiders, are usually made with canvas and leather. But, if you are getting leather boat shoes, get a half-size smaller than the average size. You want your shoes to be snug to your fit, especially if you choose to be sockless. Also, add some allowance for your toes to wiggle in.

The boat shoes are a classic piece in any man’s wardrobe that can be worn day and night. It comes in canvas and leather. However, leather gives you the vintage preppy vibe that is a unique feature of boat shoes. Leathers are also known to be durable and dressier than canvas. As this is worn for sailing, waterproof materials are preferred.

The “classic pull-up leather” called Horween Chromexcel, or CXL, is the preferred leather type known for its elasticity and softness. Compared to other types of leather, Chromexcel breaks in faster, thus, more comfortable for the feet.

Non-slip sole

The sole non-slip feature of boat shoes is what led to its inception when Paul Sperry, a former Navy Sailor, tried to find a way to avoid skidding in his boat. He experimented with several materials, such as black rubber soles. It was until he noticed his dog Prince running over icy water without sliding that he had his a-ha moment. This led to the conception of the herringbone pattern of sipes (slits) in 1923. This siping pattern, initially created by cutting slits on the rubber sole, provides better traction on wet surfaces.

From the black rubber soles come the white sole with herringbone pattern and brown color that gave the classic boat shoe look.

Leather is treated with oil to become water-repellant and stainproof. The shoe is handsewn and has 360-degree lacing running through 2-3 eyelets to tighten the shoes. The 360-degree profile allows you to cinch the laces to tighten the shoe.

Once broken in, boat shoes are very comfortable on the feet, which is why it is often worn sockless. To break in your boat shoe, allow a week to a month for the shoe to stretch out a bit to widen. The temporary discomfort will pay off with a shoe that will snuggle to your feet perfectly.

Tip: Do not use the shoe for long-distance travel during the 1st few days, as this will hurt your feet. Best to use it in the afternoon, walking around your house, or for short walks. Remember, it only loosens the width but not the length.

Non-marking sole

As for how it was invented initially, the white rubber sole does not leave any mark on boat decks. This feature is very important for sailors. After all, no one would want to leave marks on a beautiful teak deck or fiberglass boat.

From a white-colored sole, it has evolved into different colors, mostly representative of the summer colors. Despite the change of color, the non-marking feature is still kept for boat sailing purposes.

Where to Buy Boat Shoes for Sailing?

The boat shoes being a staple in men’s and even women’s wardrobe has broken in the international fashion world. Here are some of the shops in America where you can buy boat shoes. Quoddy MTO, Stockists, Rancourt Shop, Russell Moccasin Co, Oak Street Shop, Sperry Made in Maine, Orvis, Redwing Germany, Skechers, and of course, Amazon.

With the increasing popularity of online shopping, boat shoes are available on different e-commerce sites. Be aware, though, of imitations that could leave a bad experience. Make sure to make use of the guides listed earlier for the authentic boat shoe purchase.

Can I Wear Socks With Boat Shoes?

Going sockless is how boat shoes are traditionally worn. Once originally for sailing, wearing socks with boat shoes paired with shorts and a polo shirt will give you a fashion run. For those people with sweaty feet, you can use cotton inserts for comfort.

There is no absolute rule in using socks. Just because it was a tradition, it doesn’t mean there is no way around it. For those who find discomfort in being sockless, there are what you call no-show or foot socks that can be worn with the shoes. A dark hose is ideal for such an occasion. But for the majority, going sockless is still the trend for that classic preppy look.

Who Are Boat Shoes for?

Originally, boat shoes are designed for the gentlemen sailors out there ready to conquer the wave on their yachts. Through the years, these slip-on had swept over the fashion world, taking over the coastal areas of the United Kingdom, Spain, Netherlands, Canada, United States, Australia, Argentina, China, Italy, France, and Portugal. From then, it became a fashion trend from outside the decks to the walking streets in everyday fashion ensembles.

Why Wear Boat Shoes?

Today, women and men of all ages are rocking the boat shoes both on and off the deck. It has a classic preppy look that you can wear from morning to night. For that 80s look, you can pair them French tolled jeans for men and a V-neck sweater for women.

For the modern preppy look, pair it up with shorter-length pants and a polo for the men. For the best pair, go for boat shoes and chinos. That is for the smart casual look. Looking for a challenge? Pair it with a semi-formal look by choosing a complementary shoe with your suit.

For that natural look, jeans and boat shoes are the perfect pairs as long as worn in a similar tone. For women, it is more versatile as you can pair them with your dress or trousers with a blouse. You can never go wrong with such an ensemble.

More than fashion, it is very functional and a must-have staple in your wardrobe.

Boat shoes are still in trend these days as long as you stick to the classic look. Or, if you can pull it off with the pastel colors, then that’s great news! Wear it every day or even when traveling. Great for the summer days and even in the cooler weather. You can hop on and off the yacht and still look fantastic in this quintessential classic pair.

Other Product Reviews

  • Boat shoes for sailing
  • Boat shoes for women
  • How to choose boat shoes for men
  • Boat shoes for men
  • What shoes to wear on a boat
  • Shoes to wear on a sailboat
  • Breathable water shoes for men
  • How to choose water shoes
  • Why wear water shoes
  • Women water shoes
  • Water shoes for hiking
  • Women’s flip flops
  • Supportive flip-flops for women
  • How to choose flip flops
  • Men’s flip flops
  • How to buy deck boots
  • Waterproof deck boots

What are your favorite boating shoes? Please, feel free to share your experience in the comment below.

Picture of Daniella

Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

56 thoughts on “Best Boat Shoes For Sailing-The Perfect Blend of Fit!”

These are really nice options. I’m normally are barefooted kind of guy myself but I’m kind of leaning towards the Columbia Powerdrain. From the info, i get how strong the shoe material is but what about the shoe lace, do they become brittle or affected in anyway after coming into contact with water so frequently?

The Climacool are water shoes and were made especially for boating and water sport. These are extremely comfortable in the water, but not on land. Both Climacool and Columbia Powerdrain are suitable for watersports and last a long time. I am sure you will enjoy both of them. To answer your question, any shoes you’ll use frequently will deteriorate quicker. Also, it depends on what you’ll do with them, but overall, both are fabulous shoes.

I hope it helped and, please don’t hesitate to contact me if you wish to know more info:) I’ll be glad to help! Thank you for the comment and wish you a great day!

This may be a really bad question but how do you feel Crocs stack up against these sailing shoes? I wore these extensively during a voyage to Antarctica and really enjoyed them. I can see that having more support would be handy sailing as Crocs can easily come off if the band comes lose behind the ankles. Personally I really like the look of the Adidas shoe here but it is unfortunate they do not offer as much as some of the other shoes here. Is the Keen Newport Boating Sandal comfortable on land?

Hi Francis,

I love Crocs, and I own a few pairs myself. I wouldn’t suggest wearing Crocs on any wet surfaces. These are slippy and can be extremely dangerous! I’ve slipped several times and I’ve almost killed myself. I am not the only one. It happened to all my friends as well as to my husband and my children. I still wear them but only on dry surfaces.

The Keen Sandals are absolutely fantastic and comfortable to wear all day and everywhere. These are non-slip shoes and are made of very strong material. I have a pair of Keen sandals since four years, and they are still comfortable and look awesome, and I have worn them on rough areas.

I hope it helped and if you need more info, don’t hesitate to leave a message in the comment below. I’ll be back to as soon as possible!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a lovely day!

Hey, Danielle, I’m so happy I came across your site! I’m looking to go on a Sailing Journey around South East Asia and I’m looking for the best footwear for myself.

I actually need orthotics which require me to have a deep and wider shoe. Which of these shoes do you recommend that is deeper and wider fitting?

How nice, I wish you a fantastic sailing trip!

If you need orthotic shoes, I would definitely suggest you check the Keen Sandals, most of them feature removable insoles, which is ideal for your feet.

I hope it helped and if you need more information, don’t hesitate to contact me, I’ll be glad to assist!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a wonderful day!

These shoes sound really useful. Sometimes I like to walk on the beach or go boating or other water-related activities that require shoes. Regular shoes aren’t obviously good enough. Crocs are good but they don’t have a good grip on your feet. These shoes seem like they have the best of both qualities – they are waterproof and they are durable in water areas. Great review!

Crocs are great to wear in certain areas, but I wouldn’t suggest to wear them on wet surfaces especially after wearing them for a while as the outsole deteriorates with the time and they get really slippy. I never wear Crocs on any wet surface!

Yes, the shoes listed in the article have excellent support and hold well the feet.

The Sperry sea kite shoes look amazing! Great looks as well as what seems like great quality. Definitely my first choice! It’s good that they provide good arch support, because I have big arches.

Would this shoe also be good for everyday use? I tend to not have too many pairs of shoes, and use the same pair for many different things. Is this a good all around walking shoe as well? Would be good to use on rainy days.

Indeed, the Sperry Sea Kite are amazing shoes!  Since they provide excellent arch support, you can wear them for walking. Also, they are slip resistant, thus grip wet surfaces. These are water resistant. So yes,  you can wear them in the rain, but I wouldn’t suggest using them for swimming or kayaking since they are not waterproof. 

I hope it helped:) Let me know if you need more info. I am always happy to help!  Thank you for the comment and wish you all the best!

I had no idea that Adidas made boat shoes. I grew up wearing Sperry’s. They were great on the boat and just a good everyday shoe. As the years went by, I needed more arch support so I got away from Sperry. I’m definitely going to check out Sea Kite. Sperry has always made a quality shoe. It will be good to wear one with a bit of an arch. 🙂

Yes, Adidas make boat shoes too and great ones!  The Sea Kite offers excellent arch support, and they are cute! I am sure you will love them:)

Thank you for the comment and wish you a fantastic day!

Hi Daniella,

I’m wondering if these shoes are made for males or females, or are they unisex? I was also wondering if these shoes would be good on a cruise or would they not be the kind of shoes I need!?

Hi Diane, Thank you for passing by:) Most of the shoes that are listed in the article are designed for women except the Sperry Sea Kite Sports Boat Shoe and the Keen Newport Boating Sandals, which are available on Amazon in women version. These shoes feature non-marking soles and are slip resistant. Meaning they grip well on wet surfaces and they don’t leave any marks on boats.But that may not be a concern for you if the trip is on a cruise:). If you plan to do excursions on land, then you’ll need versatile shoes like the Keen sandals or the Sperry Top-Sider or Colombia Powerdrain. Here is another article about the best water shoes for women , you may take a look.

I hope it helped and, please, don’t hesitate to contact me with any question. I’ll be more than happy to assist!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a fantastic cruising experience:)

Hi Daniella. This is really useful. I have been invited out sailing on a cabin cruiser and although I love the sea, I am a rank amateur . I have high arches to my feet and usually use a bit of arch support. which would you recommend for that. We are not planning to do much on dry land, just sailing and swimming. (Somewhere warm I understand.) Thanks for the review.

I am glad you found this article useful! All the shoes listed in the article are designed for sailing and water sports. If you plan on doing loads of water sports, I would suggest you the  Columbia Powerdrain and they provide great support.

I hope it helped. Let me know if you need to know further info. I am always happy to help!

Thank you for the comment t and wish you all the best!

I found your article very informative. I have only been on a boat a couple of times in my life. Don’t remember what kind of shoes I was wearing. I do know that most people wear shoes about one-third of their life, and if they’re not comfortable or don’t fit right it can be a very miserable experience. You explained quite a variety of shoes, why they are the best and the good they do for your feet. I will have to check them out for the future and will direct others to your wonderful Website, thanks again for the info.

I am glad you found the article useful! Indeed, if the shoes don’t fit the foot, it can be painful. That’s why it’s important to choose the right size:) Thank you for sharing the site with others, and for the comment!

I wish you a fantastic day!

I really like the Sperry Top-Sider Escape Bungee. I was wondering why you only gave it a 3.5 out of 5 stars? That makes me question if I should pick a different one, LOL. Also do you know if this shoe comes in a wide fit? I have kind of a wide foot and too narrow of a shoe is just not comfortable to me. The price is not too bad though.

The Sperry Top-Sider Escape Bungee is a fantastic pair of shoes. You have an excellent taste:)  The rate is 3.9 out 5 which is great because only a dozen of reviewers has given their opinion on these shoes. The more the amount of reviewers arises, the higher the rate will be unless the product is not good at all. Then it would be the opposite. You can do a lot of things with the Bungee, these are incredibly comfortable, and they are true to size. If you have wide feet and not sure about the size, you should try them out in an offline store before you order them online. This way you’ll be reassured:) As for the price, they are well worth it!

I hope it helped. Don’t hesitate to contact me with any question. I’ll be more than happy to assist!

Hi Daniella, Despite the fact that I have never actually been sailing, I do have to say that there were two pairs of shoes here that you have reviewed that I most certainly have no problem wearing them.

The shoes looked really good and if you didn’t know they were sailing shoes, I would say that you would never guess either.

Thanks for showing me these and I will keep this post in mind for future use. I know that you said that some of these shoes are more expensive, I always believe though that you only get what you pay for.

Indeed, some of the shoes that are listed in the article can be wear for everyday use. For example, the Sperry Sea Kite, the Keen and the Sperry Top-Sider are extremely comfortable to wear for walking. All of them have non-sliping and non-marking outsole which is extremely important when sailing as the deck’s boats are often wet and susceptible to scratch. Indeed, prices vary depending on the shoes, and yes, you get what you pay for:).

Thanks Daniella, thank you for this article. I myself am a keen sailor however since breaking a toe I have been far more sensitive on boats as it just needs time to heal but I’m also not prepared to not sail for 8 or more weeks!

This article I found very helpful and am keen to try your recommendation of Adidas Climacool Boat Lace as although practical it was the most fun in terms of design, being a gal and all, aesthetics are also important.

Thanks for sharing!

You are very welcome, there! Contrary to what many sailors think, feet injuries happen quite often on boats. Going barefoot is fun and agreeable, but not safe! The Climacool Boat Lace is the perfect pair of shoes to go sailing. They grip incredibly well, they are lightweight and they drain water out very quickly.With these on your feet, you’ll feel like you are going barefoot! Great choice!

Thak you for the comment and wish you a quick recovery and wonderful sailing trip!

I’m planning on spending a lot of time in our small boat fishing and crabbing. Doing these activities you get wet…obviously. 🙂

I get tired of wearing my rubber boats all the time. Especially during the summer and fall when it can get hot. I want me feet to breath, so I started looking for alternatives and came across this post.

I really like the Keen. It’s the only one you reviewed that looks like it could handle a “working” boat. Any idea how these would do in salt water? Also, love that I can pop off the boat and walk a few miles on the beach in these!

Thanks for the review. Very helpful!!!

The Keen sandals are excellent to go boating. These are extremely versatile. You can use them for many purposes. To answer your question, salt is the number one enemy. It destroys many things. So don’t expect from even the best quality shoes to last for a long time after using them in salt water. If you want to keep the Keen sandals in good shape, you need to rinse them with clear water after having exposed them to seawater.

I hope it helps! Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any question, I’ll be more than happy to assist!

Great review! These shoes are really awesome though I like to walk about on the beach or boat in shoes ever since I kicked my barefoot on the the rock. You have listed great boots up here. Though Crocs are good too but I don’t like them because they lack grip on feet. I like the shoes up here for the qualities and especially because of their durability and most importantly, waterproof. Thanks

You are very welcome! Let me know if you need help. I’ll be more than happy to assist.

Thank you for the comment and wish a lovely day

Wow, this is a really good list of the best boat shoes. I had a hard time choosing which shoes I should pick out. Everything there is just awesome but I had to pick the Columbia Powerdrain  because it looks like my favourite crocs home ware and seeing that it works well on the socks is good and it also has very good soles. I’ll be going yatching this weekend and I’m sure this shoes will be the best for my adventure. Thank you for the review.

Hi Henderson,

Great choice! The Columbia Powerdrain will meet your expectation!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a fantastic sailing trip!

Awesome article, I think I got my eyes on the Columbia Powerdrain. Already ordered it. Hopefully it doesn’t disappoint me. I will come back and tell you how it is in real life.

I really love the colour, the sea like colour just makes me feel like I should be wearing that whenever I go to the beach or sailing.

Excellent, I am sure you’ll love the Columbia Powerdrain. They are comfortable and provide great support.

Thank you for passing by, and I hope you enjoy the rest of your day.

The Columbia Powerdrain definitely seems like the way to go, as there are many pros and all the cons can be easily adjusted. I’m one of those people that likes to simply have one overall pair of shoes for the day, so would the Columbia brand be good for other activities as well, so long as there’s not too much distance involved?

Definitely, the Columbia Powerdrain can suit for water sports as well as for light hiking and boating. They are incredibly comfortable and lighweight too.

I hope it helped!

Thanks for this article. My two brother-in-laws live in Florida and both of them recently purchased boats. I was thinking of a good gift idea for them because I am sure they will need all the boating essentials. I figured the right boat shoes would be something they would want and need, without even realizing it. Based on these reviews, I now have a good idea as to which kind would suit them best (Sperry Sea Kite). Really glad I came across your post, saved me a lot of time!! Thanks again!

The Sperry Sea Kite is a versatile shoe; you can wear them for various outdoor activities apart from sailing. I am sure your brother-in-law will love this gift!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a great day!

Hello Daniella, this post comes as a savior to me. I love sailing alot and I’ve also been wounded alot by different stuffs in the boat. Why? I love when my feet’s are free during sailing. As much as I like these legs to be free I don’t like being in pain from wounds. Seeing these cool suggestions makes me really happy and a big thanks to you for that. I’ve however decided to go for the Keen H2 sandal because I can still have that freedom in my feet while sailing. Thanks for this beautiful suggestions. 

You are very welcome!

Great choice, the Keen sandals are fantastic for sailing as well as for outdoor trip!

I used to do a lot of boating mostly on lakes ( waterskiing and fishing ) I was always one to wear something in the way of a running shoe rather than going barefoot. You show an amazing selection of boat shoes on your site. I recently have been asked to go sailing with a friend I met recently at a 55+ apartment building and wonder if you could recommend something for a beginner sailor. I am diabetic and realize the importance of looking after my feet

All of the shoes listed in the article are great for beginners. You can choose whatever you like. If you have diabetes, I would recommend a shoe that is breathable with excellent support. The Sperry Top-Sider ASV Shock, Columbia Powerdrain and the Sperry Top-Sider Escape will be perfect for you. I hope it helped. Let me know if you need help. I’ll be more than happy to assist. Thank you for the comment and wish you all the best!

Best Boat Shoes for Sailing-The perfect blend of it is a piece of good educational information on which one to use in the boat. Primarily, I do not believe in wearing anything as it would have more steadiness ain engaging my movement in this kind of dumpy, wet and slippery condition. Among the shoes mentioned from big companies like Sketcher, Columbia even Adidas, I would choose Keen Newport Boating Sandals. The first thing is the general safety and protection of using shoes or sandals and though pricey it makes the wetness easily go dry, and easy to slip in and slip on and the design is good to my taste. Way to go. Something to think about when I go sailing.

Keen Newport is one of the most popular sandals used for sailing as they provide excellent features. Sailors love Keen sandals!

I am sure you will too:)

Let me know if you need help. I’ll be more than happy to assist.

Thank you for the comment and wish you a nice day.

Great post you have here, and I really find it difficult to make a selection here from this list you have shared here. Thank you so much for sharing this excellent review. Well! I think the next possible thing that is judicious to do is to choose a pair of boating shoes for my sailing trips. I would love to buy Keen Newport Boating Sandals. Do they leave marks on the deck?

It looks rather awesome. Thank you

Hi Rodarrick,

Thank you for stopping by!

Keen Newport features nonmarking soles, mines doesn’t leave any marks on the deck. I am very happy with them!

Thank you for the comment and I wish you a lovely day!

So many shoes and I love shoes but even better, sailing shoes, as I’m on boats all the time. You are so correct in that you really need something that is lightweight, drys quickly, and looks great. Girls especially like to look cool onboard and you offer great advice on some really lovely water shoes. My pick is a pair of Skechers as they are really classy.

I enjoyed reviewing all the shoes and would buy them when mine wear out. I even liked some of the men’s shoes too.

As a matter of fact, I do sometimes wear men’s shoes when I don’t find the model I want for women:) But who cares as long as we are comfortable wearing them. 

Skechers provide excellent support and comfort to the feet. So I highly recommend them.

Thanks for the comment, and I wish you a lovely day!

Hey Daniella. Very interesting article. To be fair I’m just starting ma adventure with sailing and posts like this are extremely useful. Proper clothes and shoes not only provided comfort on boat but first of all guarantee safety of everyone. Thank you for you detailed review, looking forward to test some of your recommendations in practice.

That’s great; I am sure you’ll enjoy your adventure very much!

Yes, it’s important to wear good shoes when sailing if you want to protect your feet and be comfortable – although many sailors sail barefoot:). So it really depends on your preferences. Thank you for the comment and wish you a great day!

Hi, thank you for sharing this article. Looking and reading through your post I find a pair of mine the Skechers which I am in love with them, wow, so super. But my partner has the Keen sandals. Although we are not sailing he just loves these sandals and just can wait for the summer to come to wear them. Love this topic. Just one question: do you think that Keen has also sandals for women or should I buy my size from men as I really like them?

I am glad you enjoyed the reading:)

Sure, you can find the same model for women as well. And yes, you’ll have to choose your size from women.

Great choice. Keen is the most popular one on the list. 

Let me know if you have questions; I’ll be more than happy to assist.

Thank you for the comment, and I wish you a lovely day.

Very informative article on boat shoes, I’d be certainly checking it out later, as I’m about to get a speed boat license soon. 

Are these shoes all have protection against slippery floors? I’ve seen a few of them have this as a pro, but not all of them and the ones I kinda liked and like to wear didn’t have that highlighted.

I would just assume they all have that feature.

Thanks for the detailed information,

All the best,

That’s awesome! I’m sure you’ll have lots of fun on the water!

All of these shoes listed have an excellent grip, but not all have non-marking soles. So when choosing a pair, make sure it suits your needs:)

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. I am always happy to assist.

I used to rock the Columbia powerdrains but I got sick of them for pretty much the same reasons you mention in the cons list, they are terrible for long-distance traveling and one of my favorite things to do on the beach is take nature walks.

I might take a closer look at those Sperry Sea Kite Sports Boat Shoe, they might serve my exploration needs. If they don’t, do you have any recommendations on boat shoes that are good for land/sand prevention?

The Keen sandals are absolutely fantastic for walking long distances. You can wear them from water to land and vice versa. It is highly recommended.

If you need more help, please let me know. I’ll be more than happy to assist.

Thank you for the comment, and I wish you a great day.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when we think of boat shoes? For many of us, it’s the idea of summer, relaxing on a lazy afternoon with friends, or the freedom of not having to wear our ordinary shoes or boots. However, that is a mistake. And I have learned it in a funny and a bit unpleasant way. After making up my mind I need boat shoes I landed on your post. I think I will choose the Columbia Men’s Bahama boat shoe. I love their design. And being comfortable is all-important.

I may need to buy another pair for more work-driven activities in the sea. Which of these would be the best pair for work (safety reasons)?

Thank you for passing by and the comment.  I would definitely choose the Keen or Irish Setter or Sperry Sea Kite; these shoes are very sturdy and will hold hard use at sea.

I hope it helped and if you have more questions, I’ll be happy to assist.

I wish you a lovely day.

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boat shoes yachting

We offer a wide range off yachting shoes from classic leather deck shoes to state of the art yachting trainers. All specifically designed to provide ultimate non marking grip whilst on board your yacht, dinghy or motor boat in both wet and dry conditions. From traditional laser cut soles to modern water dispersing ultra grippy compounds to choose from. A range of our yachting shoes are also non-absorbent meaning they are quick-drying due to the construction of absorbent removable insoles. If you are looking for lightweight, cushioned and supportive shoes then we have a variety of excellent designs and styles for you.

Gill Mawgan Sailing Trainers - Black/Grey - 936

Gill Mawgan Sailing Trainers - Black/Grey - 936

Gill

Gill Mawgan Sailing Trainers - Black/Grey - 938

Gill Mawgan Sailing Trainers - Navy - 938

Gill Mawgan Sailing Trainers - Navy - 938

Gill Race Trainer - Graphite - RS44

Gill Race Trainer - Graphite - RS44

Gill Race Trainer - Grey - RS44

Gill Race Trainer - Grey - RS44

Gill Sovona Sailing/Watersports Trainers - Black 939

Gill Sovona Sailing/Watersports Trainers - Black 939

Gill Sovona Sailing/Watersports Trainers - Navy 939

Gill Sovona Sailing/Watersports Trainers - Navy 939

Lizard Crew Deck Shoes - Black

Lizard Crew Deck Shoes - Black

Lizard Footwear

Lizard Womens Sunrise Sailing Shoes - Mint

Musto Harbour Moccasin  - Dark Brown

Musto Harbour Moccasin - Dark Brown

Musto

Zhik FUZE Sailing Shoes - Ash

Zhik

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Palm Beach International Boat Show returns to West Palm Beach waterfront

The Palm Beach International Boat Show returns this week with more nearly 1,000 vessels on display, including super yachts from around the world.

Tickets are on sale now for the show that runs March 21-24 along the West Palm Beach waterfront.

The show, which started in 1982, has grown to a major economic engine for the community, with last year's impact estimated at $1.05 billion statewide — nearly as much as the $1.3 billion Miami International Boat Show, said Alyssa Freeman, executive director of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, which owns the boat show.

More: Cool front for South Florida won't be its last even with the first day of spring here

"Palm Beach is really not that far behind Miami, and Miami is the biggest in the world," Freeman said. "That was really exciting."

This year's boat show features an expanded Super Yacht Show at Palm Harbor Marina, showcasing yachts that typically stretch longer than 80 feet and have a variety of luxurious amenities that include hot tubs, crew quarters, dance floors and sun decks.

"We have more super yachts there than we ever have before, and they're even bigger," Freeman said, noting that at 236 feet, the vessel Casino Royale takes the title of largest yacht at this year's show. The title of "most expensive yacht" goes to Come Together, a 196-foot vessel priced at $59.95 million.

"Everybody, when they think about super yachts, they think about Monaco and Miami, but Palm Beach is a real player in these boat shows and the yachting world," Freeman said.

Exhibitors continue to be drawn to the Palm Beach International Boat Show by the opportunity for high sales year after year when compared with other South Florida boat shows, she said.

"I've heard from several of them, this is their favorite show to attend," Freeman said, "And that's why, because their sales are higher at Palm Beach."

The show continues to make headway in improving its sustainability efforts, she said. After reducing single-use plastics, a major change this year is the addition of water bottle refilling stations throughout the show, Freeman said.

"I think that's exciting because everybody's talking about sustainability and how we can be more sustainable," she said. "Every year, we take little steps to be more sustainable."

Freeman said she is excited for this year's AquaZone presented by Nautical Ventures. The attraction showcases some of the "yacht toys" that are new or popular on the market.

"It's so cool, because there are people actually in the water demoing yacht toys, and it's usually the latest and greatest," she said. "There's always something new every year that we've never seen before."

The Palm Beach International Boat Show also features a range of seminars, demonstrations and discussions throughout the weekend, including mental health in yachting, tips to boat to the Bahamas, safe boating to protect sea turtles and how to address active threats and piracy.

Freeman, who has children, said she loves the Kids Fishing Clinics scheduled for noon and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday with captain Don Dingman.

"Captain Don has been doing this for years, and he does a fantastic job," Freeman said. "The kids actually get to go home with a free rod and reel once the clinic is over."

The association produces the Palm Beach International Boat Show with Informa Markets' U.S. Boat Shows division.

"As we gear up for the 2024 Palm Beach International Boat Show, we are excited for our return to Downtown West Palm Beach to celebrate the rich history of this esteemed event," Andrew Doole, president of U.S. Boat Shows at Informa Markets, said in a news release. "Each year, we’re grateful for the warm welcome and support from the community, which truly makes this event a highlight on the calendar for both residents and visitors alike."

Informa also produces the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary art show happening March 21-24, at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. A Windward VIP ticket to the boat show includes admission to the art show as well.

In addition to serving as a cornerstone festival of spring in West Palm Beach, the boat show launched the Palm Beach International Boat Show Gives Back program to provide hundreds of thousands of dollars in contributions to local nonprofits, Freeman said.

The grant program had a soft launch last year and formalized the boat show's four-decade practice of giving back to the community, Freeman said.

"We're really excited about it," said Freeman, who added that the boat show team is working with the Community Foundation to manage the grant program, which they hope to grow. "That's something that's a super high priority for us."

Money raised through a portion of the boat show's ticket sales, optional add-ons and some related activities goes toward the fund.

The boat show in February announced that the first round of grants totaling $500,000 would go to 25 nonprofits that have marine-related programs or projects, including Florida Fishing Academy, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Florida Atlantic University, Inlet Grove High School, Palm Beach State College, Sea Turtle Adventures and Friends of Manatee Lagoon.

"We're hoping one day we'll be able to say that it's a million dollars," she said. "So fingers crossed. It relies on the success of the boat show and the support of the community. With that, we will continue to grow."

What: Palm Beach International Boat Show.

When: Noon to 7 p.m. March 21, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. March 22 and 23, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 24.

Where: West Palm Beach waterfront.

Cost: General admission is free for ages 6 and younger with purchase of an adult ticket, $17 for a one-day ticket for ages 6-15, $33 for a one-day ticket for ages 16 and older, and $60 for a two-day adult ticket. VIP experiences start at $390 for a Windward single-day ticket.

Information: pbboatshow.com

Kristina Webb is a reporter for Palm Beach Daily News, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at  [email protected] .  Subscribe today  to support our journalism.

Russia fires 31 missiles at Kyiv in the first attack in weeks as people scramble for cover in subway

A firefighter gestures as he prepares to enter a building at the site after a Russian attack in Kyiv, Ukraine, Thursday, March 21, 2024. Around 30 cruise and ballistic missiles were shot down over Kyiv on Thursday morning, said Serhii Popko, the head of Kyiv City Administration. The missiles were entering Kyiv simultaneously from various directions in a first missile attack on the capital in 44 days. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda)

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Russia fired more than two dozen missiles at Kyiv before dawn on Thursday, attacking the Ukrainian capital for the first time in six weeks and sending panicked residents flooding into the relative safety of the subway system in a scene reminiscent of the first weeks of the war .

Air defenses shot down all 31 of the missiles, though the falling wreckage still damaged apartment buildings and injured 13 people, including a child, officials said.

An estimated 25,000 people, including about 3,000 children, took shelter in the city’s subway stations as air raid sirens wailed for about three hours, officials said.

Survivors, some in tears as emergency workers treated them in the streets, recounted narrowly escaping from their homes after being jolted awake by loud bangs at around 5 a.m.

Raisa Kozenko, a 71-year-old whose apartment lost its doors and windows in the blast, said her son jumped out of bed just in time. “He was covered in blood, in the rubble,” she said, trembling from shock. “And all I can say is ... the apartment is completely destroyed.”

Russia has attacked civilian areas since the war started in February 2022 in an apparent effort to demoralize Ukrainians and break their will to fight. But the attack Thursday hardened Kozenko’s will to prevail.

“I believe in our victory. We will prevail no matter what,” she told The Associated Press.

Russia launched two ballistic missiles and 29 cruise missiles against the capital, and they arrived at roughly the same time from different directions, Ukrainian authorities said. The attack occurred hours after a visit to Kyiv by President Joe Biden’s top foreign policy adviser, Jake Sullivan.

Kyiv has better air defenses than most other Ukrainian cities and regions, including sophisticated systems provided by Western allies. The missile interception rate is frequently high, rendering Russian attacks on the capital significantly less successful than early on in the war . Other places, including the port city of Odesa , are more vulnerable and have sustained heavy damage from Russian missiles.

Ukrainian officials warn that their resources are stretched thin and that they need considerably more Western weapons if they are to keep fighting Russia’s invasion.

The heavy attack on Kyiv came a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin threatened to “respond in kind” to recent Ukrainian aerial attacks on the Russian border region of Belgorod , which have embarrassed the Kremlin and which Russian officials say have killed civilians.

At a Wednesday event at the Kremlin, Putin said Russia “can respond in the same way regarding civilian infrastructure and all other objects of this kind that the enemy attacks. We have our own views on this matter and our own plans. We will follow what we have outlined.”

Five people were injured in an attack Thursday on the Belgorod region that damaged homes and a sports stadium, Gov. Vyacheslav Gladkov said. Russia’s Ministry of Defense said it stopped 10 rockets over the region.

In Kyiv, an 11-year-old girl and a 38-year-old man who were injured in Thursday’s attack were hospitalized, the city administration said. Eight other people suffered light injuries, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko.

Ukraine’s Emergency Service said about 80 people were evacuated from their homes.

Falling wreckage from the intercepted missiles set fire to at least one apartment building, burned parked cars and left craters in streets and a small park. Some streets were littered with debris, including glass from shattered windows.

Mariia Margulis, 31, said a decision to stay in the hallway throughout the attack saved her family.

“The blast wave blew out all the windows on the side where everything happened,” she said. “My mom was supposed to sleep in that room, but I asked her to move to the corridor in time, which saved us.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged the country’s Western partners to send more air defense systems so they can be distributed to other parts of the country where missile strikes have become more common.

“Every day, every night such ... terror happens,” he said on Telegram after Thursday’s attack. “World unity is capable to stop it by helping us with more air defense systems.”

Zelenskyy said Russia doesn’t have missiles that can evade U.S.-made Patriots and other advanced air defense weapons.

European Union leaders were considering new ways to help boost arms and ammunition production for Ukraine at a summit in Brussels on Thursday.

Russia has largely turned its attention to other Ukrainian cities, targeting them with drones and ballistic missiles.

On Wednesday, Russian ballistic missiles killed five people and injured nine in the eastern Kharkiv region.

Follow AP’s coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

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Kiev Municipal Cruising Yacht Club

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Kiev Municipal Cruising Yacht Club (Kyiv, Ukraine): Address - Tripadvisor

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Best Arch Support Boat Shoes: 6 Pain-Free Performers

  • Steve Walburn
  • April 4, 2023

Comfortable and supportive footwear is essential when spending extended periods on the water, especially for those who suffer from foot pain.

boat shoes yachting

The best boat shoes are designed to offer traction on wet surfaces and protect feet from the elements, but what if you also require additional arch support?

As anyone who suffers from plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or flat feet knows, arch support is crucial in their footwear. Proper support distributes body weight evenly and reduces pressure on your feet, which in turn can alleviate pain and discomfort.

Unfortunately, the most traditional style of deck shoes—topsiders—often have the arch support of a flapjack. Their loafer profile and thin sole just don’t allow for a lot of extra padding or support. But as a given shoe design bulks up, better arch support usually follows.

We have selected these six shoes based on unique features that provide maximum arch support and comfort to sailors and boaters. Our list includes both men’s and women’s shoes, with various styles and designs to suit any preference.

Whether you’re out on the water for long periods or just strolling along the dock, these shoes will keep your feet well-supported so you can focus on enjoying your time on the water without worrying about foot pain or discomfort.

6 of the best arch support boat shoes

Musto dynamic pro ll boat shoes.

Specifications : Sizes: 7 through 13 | Colors: Vallarta Blue, True Navy | Construction: Mesh with TPU overlay

Reasons to Buy: Durable and comfortable | Waterproof upper with a padded insole | Elasticated ghillie lacing for a perfect fit

Reasons to Avoid: More suitable for racers than day sailors | Moderately expensive

The Musto Dynamic Pro II Adapt is a great choice for serious sailors who need comfortable and durable boat shoes with solid arch support.

A TPU welded overlay in the upper provides lateral reinforcement, and a shock-absorbing heel cage reduces foot fatigue.

The ghillie lacing system utilizes elasticated loops to ensure a perfect fit. Waterproof uppers and a padded insole make them perfect for use in the wet conditions racers often encounter.

Musto’s proprietary GripDeck rubber increases traction on wet surfaces, and an EVA foam midsole offers good rebound and cushioning. The footbed is also ported for fast drainage.

Buy from Musto

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Skechers women’s arch fit uplift shoreline.

Specifications : Sizes: 5 through 11 | Colors: Black, Natural, Navy | Construction: Canvas with synthetic leather trim

Reasons to Buy: Removable Arch Fit insole | Podiatrist-certified arch support

Reasons to Avoid:  Not a boating-first brand.

The Skechers Uplift Shoreline is a comfortable and supportive pair of women’s boat shoes. A removable Arch Fit insole provides podiatrist-certified arch support, and a lightweight Ultra Go cushioned midsole absorbs shock.

It’s a canvas shoe, which means it is light and breathable. The dual-density outsole features greater support where you need it most.

These shoes are also slip-on, making them easy to put on and take off, and they are available in a variety of colors to suit your style.

The Skechers Arch Fit Uplift Shoreline is a great choice for women seeking a supportive pair of boat shoes from a brand known for walking comfort.

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Sperry Gold Cup Billfish Plushwave

Specifications : Sizes: 7 through 13 | Colors: Amaretto, Grey, Tan | Construction: Leather upper with lambskin lining

Reasons to Buy: Premium leather upper with laser-perforated side panels | Sperry Plushwave technology for cushioning and support | Grippy wave-siped tread.

Reasons to Avoid: Expensive | They are a bit chunky

The Sperry Gold Cup Billfish Plushwave boat shoe is the big brother of Sperry’s popular 3-Eyelet Billfish. It features this well-known boating brand’s highest-quality materials and construction standards (with a price to match).

The Gold Cup Billfish Plushwave is made with premium leather uppers and laser-perforated side panels for breathability. Luxurious lambskin lining provides comfort and warmth, while the dual-density Plushwave technology footbed ensures all-day cushioning and support.

This shoe has a durable non-slip outsole with Sperry’s distinct wave-siped tread for on-deck traction. They are also water-resistant.

The Sperry Gold Cup Billfish Plushwave is available in a variety of colors, sizes, and widths to find the perfect fit.

If you are looking for a comfortable boat shoe with the support of a sneaker, the Sperry Men’s Gold Cup Billfish Plushwave Boat Shoe is a great option.

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Chatham Buton G2 Deck Shoe

Specifications : Sizes: 6 through 12 | Colors: Navy, Red Brown, Walnut | Construction: Premium leather

Reasons to Buy: Excellent craftsmanship | Good arch support and cushioning | Top-of-the-line deck shoe

Reasons to Avoid: High price point | Leather is slower to dry than mesh

The Chatham Buton G2 Deck Shoe is a great option for boaters and water sports enthusiasts looking for a stylish and comfortable shoe.

As a premium shoe from Chatham’s top-shelf G2 line, it offers firm arch support, making it a solid choice for those with flat feet or high arches.

The upper is high-quality and water-resistant nubuck leather with mesh panels that reduce weight and promote drying. With its stitched moccasin toe and three-eyelet leather lacing, this is a traditional deck shoe that has the support of a sneaker.

Other features include Chatham’s sole spring poron performance cushioning and anti-bacterial lining to keep your feet well-cushioned and clean. The shoe is available in three yachty colors.

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Cole Haan 4.ZeroGrand Regatta Boat Shoe

Specifications : Sizes: 7 through 13 | Colors: Navy Blazer, Stormcloud, Dark Chocolate | Construction: Mesh with reinforcing trim

Reasons to Buy: Shock-absorbing foam midsole | Breathable mesh made from recycled ocean plastics | Integral water drainage

Reasons to Avoid:  Expensive shoe for a non-boating brand

The Cole Haan 4.ZeroGrand Regatta Boat Shoe is a stylish and modern take on the classic boat shoe.

This shoe features Cole Haan’s excellent arch support and cushioning, making it a great choice for boaters who need to be on their feet for long periods.

The Regatta upper is constructed with durable mesh fabricated from recycled ocean plastics. Reinforcing at the heel cage and collar provides extra support.

A heavily textured and proprietary Anchortrac Outsole ensures traction on wet and slippery surfaces.

Though Cole Haan is better known for comfortable dress shoes, the 4.Zerogrand Regatta’s sleek design and attention to detail make it a great choice for boaters who want a shoe that feels as good as it looks.

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Helly Hansen Skagen F-1 Offshore

Specifications : Sizes: 7 through 13 | Colors: Phantom EBO, Racer Blue, Navy | Construction: Mesh with a structural overlay

Reasons to Buy: Comfortable performance shoe | Lightweight and rugged | Excellent traction

Reasons to Avoid:  Quite expensive

The Helly Hansen Skagen F-1 Offshore should be in any discussion of the best boat shoes for overall arch support.

A sneaker profile signals this shoe’s focus on comfort and performance. Mesh construction allows the shoe to breathe and stay flexible, while a seamless synthetic overlay reinforces the upper for a firm fit.

The dual-density foam midsole provides extra support in the form of a medial posting, which helps prevent excessive pronation that can lead to rolled ankles.

A removable microfiber insole is treated with antibacterial technology to reduce foot odor and fungi, keeping you comfortable on long passages.

If you took a premium running shoe and crossed it with a super grippy deck shoe, the Skagen F-1 Offshore is what you would get.

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Didn’t find what you’re looking for? Head to Amazon’s dedicated sailing page for more marine products.

The owner of a $3.4 million Lamborghini yacht screamed 'I will kill you' and threw $100 bills into the water when told he couldn't use a private dock

  • The owner of a Lamborghini yacht threatened a private dock employee, per CBS8.
  • The employee said Ajay Thakore mooned and threw cash at him after being told he couldn't use the dock.
  • Thakore, the CEO of Doctor Multimedia, issued an apology through his public relations team.

Insider Today

The owner of a $3.4 million Lamborghini yacht threatened a private dock employee after being told he couldn't be there, the San Diego-based broadcaster CBS8 reported on March 11.

Joseph Holt, a 21-year-old employee at Marriot Marina in San Diego, told CBS8 that he spotted the yacht sailing into the private dock. The owner, whom CBS8 identified as Ajay Thakore, tried to pick another person up at the dock, Holt said.

"I told him respectfully that he couldn't be there, and I honestly was hoping to have a conversation with him about his cool boat," Holt told CBS8.

In a YouTube video posted by @SM-wc9eq on March 10, a dark blue Tecnomar for Lamborghini 63 is seen sailing out of a dock. A man in a gray T-shirt, a pair of jeans, and a cap was shown standing on the yacht. The man appeared to be Thakore, per CBS8.

Thakore was shown shouting at Holt. "I will kill you, you know I will kill you!" he can be heard saying multiple times in the video

Thakore was later shown pounding his fist on his palm and pointing his thumb down before telling Holt: "To your face!" Holt was shown responding by pointing his middle finger at Thakore.

"I really was trying to restrain myself from getting fired from my job or stepping out of line. The only thing I did was give him the bird," Holt told CBS8.

Related stories

Holt said Thakore then took $100 bills from his wallet and threw them at him. He added that Thakore mooned him. This exchange was not shown in the video.

"He was saying I'm nobody, I'm nothing, I work a silly job. He said that he knows people, he has connections, he can change my life and ruin it," Holt said. Holt did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

The San Diego Harbor Police arrived at the marina 10 minutes after Thakore's yacht exited the dock, per CBS8.

The Harbor Police told Business Insider that Holt decided to press charges against Thakore and that they are investigating the incident.

According to Thakore's LinkedIn page , he's the CEO of Doctor Multimedia. The company's website shows that it's a healthcare marketing firm based in San Diego. Thakore appears to go by the name Ace Rogers on Instagram and TikTok, where he's noted as being a professional gambler.

Thakore, through his public relations team, told CBS8 in a statement that his altercation with Holt was "regrettable."

"What started as a minor misunderstanding escalated into an argument, and I apologize for my actions and to those who witnessed the unfortunate exchange," the statement said. Thakore did not immediately respond to a request for comment from BI.

Thakore isn't the only CEO who's been called out for threatening another person. In November 2021, an Activision spokesperson told BI that its ex-CEO Bobby Kotick had previously apologized for telling his assistant he would have her killed. The spokesperson added that Kotick's threat was "obviously hyperbolic and inappropriate" and that "he deeply regrets the exaggeration and tone."

In June 2020, Lisa Alexander, the CEO of LaFace Skincare, a cosmetics company, apologized in a statement to the media after she had threatened to call the police on her neighbor for writing "Black Lives Matter" on his property. Alexander said in the apology that she was "disrespectful" and "should have minded my own business."

March 21, 2024: This story has been updated with Harbor Police's comments.

Watch: The scariest things OceanGate's CEO said about deep-sea diving

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IMAGES

  1. Best boat shoes for sailing: From moccasins to high-tech deck trainers

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  2. 21 Best Boat Shoes For Men, Summer 2021

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  3. Mens Boat Shoes

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  4. The 9 Best Boat Shoes For Men

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  5. Best Men’s Boat Shoes: 6 Styles for Every Sailor

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  6. Here's How to Wear Boat Shoes the Right Way

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COMMENTS

  1. The Best Sailing Shoes For The 2024 Season

    Here are four of the best traditional sailboat shoes. 1. Sperry Leeward Boat Shoe. Sperry practically invented the 20th-century boat shoe, and they're still the go-to shoe company for sailors across the world. The Sperry Leeward Boat Shoe is an excellent introduction to traditional boat shoes.

  2. The Highest-Rated Boat Shoes in 2024

    The Dockers men's boat shoe is the best boat shoe when you are looking for great attention to detail, elegance, and style. Crafted from 100 percent high-quality leather, the Dockers boat shoes are perfect shoes to go with anything. Pros. It comes with excellent stitching. It is water-resistant.

  3. Best boat shoes: From leather deck shoes to modern alternatives

    Chatham Sperrin boat shoes. Best winter boat shoes. Specifications: Sizes: 6 up | Colors: Dark Brown, Dark Tan | Material: Leather. Reasons to buy: Good all-round support | Sole spring poron insole - offers cushion | Breathability and anti-bacterial | Robust eyelets | Available in UK sizes 6-15.

  4. The Best Shoes for Sailing: Everything You Need To Know

    Sailing shoes and deck shoes are general terms for footwear worn while sailing. Boat shoes are used as an overall term too - but there's a style of these which have a lot more history to them. Boat shoes. Back in 1935, Paul Sperry was sailing on the Long Island Sound when he almost lost his life to a slippery deck during rough seas. Later ...

  5. Best Men's Boat Shoes: 6 Styles for Every Sailor

    While the Tribord 500 might not lead the field in a comparison of the best men's boat shoes, Decathlon leads the way in affordable water sports gear and apparel with its Tribord sailing brand. The Tribord 500 boat shoe is a traditional two-eyelet topsider with the same leather uppers and lacing as found on higher-priced brands, but at a ...

  6. The 12 Best Sailing Shoes For Serious Sailors

    HH® Quick Dry. HH® Pro Guard. Antimicrobial. Helly Hansen's Ahiga Slip-On Sailing Shoes offer all-day comfort and excellent reactions. It's got the same ergonomic midsole, treaded outsole, and water-resistant textile upper as the brand's best-selling Ahiga V4 shoes with a simple slip-on design.

  7. Most Comfortable Boat Shoes: 6 All-Day Favorites

    Sperry 3-Eye Billfish Boat Shoe. Specifications | Sizes: 7 through 15 | Colors: Dark Tan, Tan Beige | Construction: Full-grain leather and mesh. Reasons to Buy: - Good value. - Three rust-proof eyelets for best fit. - Durable and comfortable. Reasons to Avoid: - One of the bulkier deck shoes.

  8. Best boat shoes: 8 great styles for any budget

    Chatham Pippa II G2 boat shoes. Best boat shoes for women. Style and comfort are hallmarks of Chatham deck shoes, and the G2 line is their top-shelf product. Constructed of water-resistant leather with a siped rubber sole, the Pippa II G2 Women's Boat Shoe is as functional and durable as it is stylish. Waxed thread prevents rot, and the ...

  9. Top 10 Best Sailing Shoes of 2024 • The Adventure Junkies

    QUICK ANSWER - THE BEST SAILING SHOES. Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoe. GILL Tall Yachting Boots. Gill Trapeze Sailing Boots. GILL Competition Sailing Boots. Rugged Shark Great White Deck Boots. Helly Hansen Midsund 2 Rain Boots. Sperry Sojourn Duck Chukka Boots. Body Glove Seek Watershoe.

  10. Superior Grip, Classic Style: The Best Boat Shoes In 2022

    Slight Twist on a Classic Style: Sperry Top-SIder Billfish 3-Eye Boat Shoe. Most Bang for Your Buck: Margaritaville Men's Anchor Lace Boat Shoe. Casual Style: Globalwin Men's Casual Loafers. Best for the Office: Sperry Top-Sider 2-Eye Canoe Mocs. Most Comfortable: Timberland Men's Classic Two-Eye Boat Shoe. Best Synthetic Sole: Rockport ...

  11. 20 Best Boat Shoes for Men in 2024, Tested by Style Experts

    Johnston & Murphy Cort Venetian. $140 at Amazon. 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 ...

  12. The best boat shoes for sailing

    MODERN CLASSIC STYLing. Designed by sailors in Massachusetts and handmade by artisans in Italy. Life is too short. to wear ugly boat shoes. BUY NOW. The best boat shoes for sailing and a life lived on the waterfront. Plush leather, non-marking soles, and no socks required.

  13. 12 Best Boat Shoes For Sailing 2024

    2. Sperry Men's Bahama Ii Boat Shoe. The Sperry men's Bahama II is a comfortable pair of boat shoes made of undyed canvas material, making them comfortable to wear all day. These high-end boat shoes have a nice hand-sewn construction with Rawhide lace.

  14. Yachting Shoes

    Yachting Shoes We offer a wide range off yachting shoes from classic leather deck shoes to state of the art yachting trainers. All specifically designed to provide ultimate non marking grip whilst on board your yacht, dinghy or motor boat in both wet and dry conditions.

  15. Best Men's Boat Shoes 2020

    These suede leather deck shoes from Brunello Cucinelli are stylish enough to carry you from port to deck. Perfect paired with chinos or shorts, these boat shoes are as classic as they come and ones to last. Brunello Cucinelli Suede Deck Shoes, MatchesFashion, £510. shop now

  16. Best Boating & Fishing Shoes For Men & Women

    Price: $60 Color: Volcanic Ash Grundéns SeaKnit Boat Shoe. Grundéns is a highly trusted brand by sport and commercial fishermen for foul-weather gear. The Grundéns SeaKnit Boat Shoe takes on the look of a classic sneaker. These lightweight, water-friendly shoes have a shock-absorbing EVA midsole for all-day comfort, 100% nylon-engineered knit upper for seamless comfort without socks, and ...

  17. Best waterproof boat shoes: 8 of the best options to ...

    Gill Race Trainer. Smart and functional, this shoe is a quality product from one of the marine industry's most respected names. Available in adult's sizes from EU 41 - 46 (UK 7 - 12), the Race Trainer is attractively styled in navy with royal blue laces and orange detailing on the lace holes.

  18. Shoe Trends That Are Popular and Going Out This Spring, From Stylists

    Stylists and designers said wedges and wrestling shoes are trending this spring, but boat shoes and platform heels are becoming outdated. Menu icon A vertical stack of three evenly spaced ...

  19. Palm Beach International Boat Show: What's new, ticket prices, details

    This year's boat show features an expanded Super Yacht Show at Palm Harbor Marina, showcasing yachts that typically stretch longer than 80 feet and have a variety of luxurious amenities that ...

  20. Check Out the Biggest and Priciest Boats at Palm Beach's Yacht Show

    The Palm Beach International Boat Show — the yacht world's flashiest event stateside — is returning this year with over 800 boats for both deep-pocketed potential owners and window shoppers to ...

  21. THE 10 BEST Kyiv Boat Rides & Cruises

    Set sail on your destination's top-rated boat tours and cruises. Whether it's an entertaining and informative boat tour or a relaxing sunset dinner cruise, these are the best Kyiv cruises around. Looking for something more adventurous? Check out our list of must-do water activities in Kyiv. See reviews and photos of boat tours & water sports in Kyiv on Tripadvisor.

  22. The Boating World Is Speculating Mark Zuckerberg Bought a Superyacht

    Then, earlier in March, yachting bloggers like eSysman SuperYachts and Autoevolution started speculating that he officially snagged the boat, originally built for a sanctioned Russian businessman ...

  23. Ukraine's capital Kyiv attacked by Russia for first time in 44 days

    Ukraine's capital was attacked by Russia for the first time in 44 days Thursday as Kyiv residents woke early to loud explosions. Ukraine's Emergency Service said 13 people were wounded ...

  24. Best boat shoes for wide feet: 7 quality options ...

    Sperry Men's Sea Kite Sport Mocs. These Men's Sea Kite Sport Mocs are available in US sizes 8-13 and retail at $109.95. These classic three-eye boat shoes are Sperry's sporty looking option for high performance use. Features include water resistant leather/mesh uppers, and a removable full-length compression molded EVA footbed.

  25. Kiev Municipal Cruising Yacht Club

    Soviet Kiev - 2 hours Walking Tour. 41. Historical Tours. from. $42.04. per adult (price varies by group size) Kiev Municipal Cruising Yacht Club. Booking unavailable on Tripadvisor. Show options.

  26. 18 BEST Things to Do in Kyiv, Ukraine

    Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes. Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.

  27. Best Arch Support Boat Shoes: 6 Pain-Free Performers

    The Musto Dynamic Pro II Adapt is a great choice for serious sailors who need comfortable and durable boat shoes with solid arch support. A TPU welded overlay in the upper provides lateral reinforcement, and a shock-absorbing heel cage reduces foot fatigue. The ghillie lacing system utilizes elasticated loops to ensure a perfect fit.

  28. Boat Rental

    There are enough places in the city where one may find a various boat rentals starting with a 30Hr per hour row boat in Hydropark to a 30Hr per minute wave runner. There is even a European standard water ski track in X-Park. ... Back in the 19th century, there was a summer residence of the Kyiv Yacht Club. In the Soviet times it housed the ...

  29. Yacht Owner Screamed 'I Will Kill You' at Marina Employee, Report Says

    The owner of a $3.4 million Lamborghini yacht screamed 'I will kill you' and threw $100 bills into the water when told he couldn't use a private dock Marielle Descalsota 2024-03-20T07:31:57Z