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When it comes to men’s fashion, boat shoes is one of the most elusive trends. These shoes are comfortable, casual, and fashionable—when worn properly, of course—but many men (and even women) aren’t sure how to wear boat shoes “the right way.” Are you supposed to wear socks with boots, or is that a total fashion faux pas—like when men wear socks with sandals? Should they be tight or loose? And can you just wear boat shoes on a boat?
How you style your boat shoes can make or break your look, whether you’re wearing them on a cruise, to the office or on a date. Avoid committing the unforgivable crime of style by learning how to wear boat shoes the right way with our top four tips.
What is the correct way to wear boat shoes?
When it comes to styling these nautical-inspired shoes, there are a few do’s and don’ts. First, boots look great on men when paired with jeans, chinos, or shorts. For women, these shoes go well with cropped or cuffed denim, but can also be worn with skirts, casual dresses, shorts, and khakis. Remember: Boat shoes are quite casual, so the outfit itself should be casual too.
Another frequently asked question about wearing boat shoes is, When can you wear them? Short answer: Definitely not during winter. Boat shoes are spring and summer style only. Unless you live in a coastal city year-round, you should probably stock up on your boat shoes for April through September.
What now? Where? Where is it really acceptable for rock boat shoes and where is it … you know, not very suitable? The general rules to follow are: casual shoes, casual events. If you work in a business-casual environment or a casual Friday, wear it to work. Heading to the pier or on a cruise? Wear them! Going on a casual date? Fair game! Other places to wear boat shoes include the beach, while traveling, in casual bars, etc. But if you’re attending a wedding or other black tie event, skip it with more luxurious shoes like shoes.
Best Boat Shoes
- Sperry Men’s Genuine Leather Two Eyes Boat Shoes, $95
- Men’s Genuine Sperry Two Eye Nubuck Leather Boat Shoes, $95
- Sperry Women’s Angelfish Boat Shoes, $34.97
- Son Allbirds Tree Skipper, $95
- Allbirds Female Tree Captain, $95
Are you supposed to wear socks with boat shoes?
Hard not. To do not wear visible socks with your boat shoes! However, we’ll forgive you, if you choose the no-show socks because they’re more comfortable (and less smelly) that way.
Why do boat shoes have laces on the sides?
Boat shoes actually have a long history. First invented in 1935 by the New Haven, Connecticut, sailor Paul A. Sperry (does the name sound familiar?), the boat shoe became something when Sperry cut the sipes—grooves or channels that increase grip—in the sole of his shoe. The idea behind this is to provide better traction when navigating a wet boat deck.
In addition to sipes, boat shoes also develop straps on the sides for a more snug fit. Due to their original design and function, boat shoes should not come off easily, so side straps are made to secure them well. After all, no rower wants to lose his shoes while walking across a wet deck.
Should boat shoes be tight or loose?
The original concept behind boat shoes was that they had to fit snugly on the foot. While working and navigating around the boat, you definitely don’t want to slip or fall. Of course, if you’re not wearing boat shoes in the traditional sense, it’s okay to wear them on the looser side. However, you probably don’t want your heels to stick out back, so use a side strap system to make sure they’re tight enough.
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