Mens Shoes: How Important is Mens Boat Shoes

Boat shoes have long been one of the enduring casual shoe trends. Once only associated with sailors, boat shoes can now be seen everywhere, from jeans to smart summer shirts – try pairing your Sperrys with a pair of tan trousers with their cuffs rolled up slightly to show off its lacing and stitching!

Traditional

Mens boat shoes are an indispensable summer footwear essential, matching almost every look from casual wear to formal events. Their open-top design keeps feet cooler than closed-toe footwear while allowing excess water to escape easily if necessary. Not to mention, they add a touch of class when worn with shorts or jeans!

Paul Sperry first invented the iconic men’s boat shoe – often known as a deck shoe or top-sider – in 1935 while sailing his sailboat. To improve grip on slippery deck surfaces, he cut sipes into the rubber sole of his new shoes and discovered they provided increased traction on wet surfaces.

The classic boat shoe is typically constructed of leather and typically features a white non-marking rubber sole with moccasin toe construction, typically featuring non-marking tread. Often treated to repel water and staining, its uppers often come equipped with anti-microbial treatments to repel liquid. Although traditionally designed to be worn without socks, many men find them comfortable enough to wear with socks as well.

Modern

Boat shoes were originally developed as footwear on deck during sailing, making them the epitome of casual footwear. Crafted with soft leather and classic moccasin stitching, these classic casual footwear pieces make for the ideal casual shoe to wear to brunch on weekends or strolls along the harbour. Many purists rely on Sperry’s Authentic line; however, other brands, such as Sebago and Quoddy, offer similar styles.

Mens boat shoes differ from their canvas counterparts in that their non-marking soles won’t leave any marks behind on surfaces like wet floors while also boasting lower profiles and offering more versatility as they can be worn with jeans, chinos or cargo.

Finding comfortable men’s shoes requires finding a pair that is snug without pinching or rubbing the foot. Consult the sizing chart and try them on to identify your ideal size; wider feet may require purchasing one size up. Some wearers have complained of too-firm or cushion-less insoles, while others found the fit ideal.

Casual

Brown leather boat shoes – or darker hues such as navy – make for the ideal finishing touch to any summer look, whether you want to embrace their nautical heritage or opt for smart casual wear. Wear them with tailored chino shorts and pair them with classic sunnies as the final flourish!

Boat shoes were originally intended to be worn without socks, and many people still opt to do so today. If this idea seems daunting to you, try invisible socks (also known as sock-sites) or shoe liners to keep your feet feeling fresh and clean.

Just be careful not to overdo your preppy style – pastel shirts, woven belts and big diver watches are too stereotypical and will send up red flags for their ‘Frat Bro’ qualities. A classic button-down shirt paired with tailored chinos and an eye-catching knit or pique polo will certainly do the trick and leave an impressionful first impression!

Dressy

Mens boat shoes (also known as deck shoes or top-siders) were originally designed for sailors and boaters; today, however, these casual shoe trends have become a timeless classic trend. While their non-slip rubber soles remain practical when boating, their timeless appeal lies in their design and materials – typically canvas or leather construction with flexible fabrics that mould to the foot over time makes these sneakers truly great comfort while adding preppy style when worn with shorts or rolled-up chinos and polo shirt for preppy style look.

Wear your boat shoes anywhere from the beach and cruise ship decks to city streets; their grippy soles, moccasin-style toes, and easy lacing make them the ideal travel shoes for all of your summer excursions. Just remember to keep them out of direct sunlight and use water-repellent spray when they get wet to prevent any fading or discolouring!