A key element of the preppy uniform, the boat shoe is the perfect amalgamation of utility and elegance. Similar to their more rigid, cold-weather cousin—the loafer—boat shoes can take a beating, be smushed into a carry-on (or your beloved Boat & Tote) without a care, and still shape up for a dockside cocktail party. They’re really the ideal, versatile shoe for summer travel and weekend jaunts from city to beach. Read our complete list of favorites below.
1. For a boat shoe with a French utilitarian twist, these Le Chameau deck shoes, as they call them, are certified splash and salt-water resistant thanks to the high quality nubuck they use. Plus they’re adorable and from an iconic heritage brand.
2. In production since 1955, the Eastland Falmouth is a quintessential version. With a low profile and streamlined look, they’re pretty perfect! They also have a wide option for those with a larger toebox, and are bound to look even better with a bit of patina.
3. If you’re familiar with Paraboot, then you know these shoes are built to last. Made in Europe with stitching inspired by Native-American moccasins, their boat shoes are equal parts chic and functional. We love them in the light-pink suede, but for more minimalist shoppers they make them in brown and white, and also in a very nice lugged sole.
4. Another proprietor of the OG preppy boat shoe, Sebago recently released a more “fashion-forward” version in a tumbled leather, with a much slimmer sole and rounder toe. They may not be as practical as the others, but if you’re team sunbathing and not planning to hoist any sails, they’re perfect.
5. Tried, tested and beloved by Yolanda, these Bally boat shoes are pricy but worth it. They’re comfortable (even without a sock) and have a slight heel, which really elevates them. Don’t be turned off by the price—they look even better with some wear.
6. It would be sacrilege to not include a pair of Sperry’s in this roundup, and their original 2-eye boat shoe is still solid. They’re low-profile and slim, and especially easy to dress up in a wide variety of colors and leathers.
7. Sperry also recently did a collaboration with Aritzia, again leaning more fashion than practical, but still super cute (and a fraction of the price of the Miu Miu pair, which they duped or at least nod to!)
8. This woven leather pair could easily be vintage, and we are such fans. Throw on with your favorite pair of weathered denim, or dress them up for cocktails—plus, they pack flat!
9. This pair by Sebago in chocolate brown suede is a welcome elevated twist on the original.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.