Summer is the perfect time to hit the water and enjoy the sun, but if you’re planning to spend your days on a boat, having the right footwear is essential. The ideal boating shoes provide comfort, grip, and durability, while also being stylish enough to wear both on and off the deck. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the 8 best boating shoes to wear this summer, complete with details on prices and specifications.
1. Sperry Men’s Authentic Original Boat Shoe
Price: $95 – $130
Material: Full-grain leather
Features: Non-marking rubber outsole, 360° lacing system, shock-absorbing EVA heel cup
Why It’s Great: A classic in the boating world, Sperry’s Authentic Original Boat Shoe is a perfect blend of style and functionality. The leather construction ensures durability, while the non-marking rubber outsole provides excellent traction on wet surfaces. The 360° lacing system ensures a snug fit, and the EVA heel cup adds extra comfort, making these shoes ideal for long days on the water.
2. Columbia Bahama Vent PFG Boat Shoe
Price: $70 – $100
Material: Combination of leather and mesh
Features: Omni-Grip non-marking outsole, Techlite midsole, vented for breathability
Why It’s Great: Columbia’s Bahama Vent PFG Boat Shoe is designed for anglers and casual boaters alike. The combination of leather and mesh provides durability and breathability, while the Techlite midsole offers superior cushioning. The Omni-Grip outsole ensures stability on slippery surfaces, and the vented design keeps your feet cool in hot summer weather.
3. Crocs Men’s Swiftwater Mesh Deck Sandal
Price: $40 – $60
Material: Synthetic mesh upper
Features: Croslite foam cushioning, adjustable straps, siped rubber outsole
Why It’s Great: If you’re looking for something more casual, the Crocs Swiftwater Mesh Deck Sandal is an excellent choice. These sandals feature adjustable straps for a secure fit and Croslite foam cushioning for all-day comfort. The siped rubber outsole provides good grip on wet surfaces, making them a practical choice for boating.
4. Helly Hansen Men’s Ahiga V4 Hydropower Shoe
Price: $80 – $120
Material: Synthetic mesh
Features: EVA midsole, HellyGrip rubber outsole, quick-drying
Why It’s Great: Helly Hansen’s Ahiga V4 Hydropower Shoe is designed with performance in mind. The quick-drying synthetic mesh upper and EVA midsole provide comfort and support, while the HellyGrip rubber outsole offers exceptional traction on wet surfaces. These shoes are perfect for active boaters who need a versatile shoe that can handle a variety of conditions.
5. Sebago Docksides Boat Shoe
Price: $125 – $150
Material: Leather
Features: Non-marking rubber outsole, rawhide laces, hand-sewn construction
Why It’s Great: Sebago Docksides Boat Shoe is another timeless option for boaters who appreciate classic style. The leather upper is durable and comfortable, and the hand-sewn construction adds a touch of craftsmanship. The non-marking rubber outsole ensures you won’t leave scuff marks on your boat’s deck, and the rawhide laces allow for a secure fit.
6. Simms Men’s Challenger Air Vent Shoe
Price: $100 – $140
Material: Mesh and synthetic
Features: Drainage ports, EVA footbed, siped rubber outsole
Why It’s Great: The Simms Challenger Air Vent Shoe is perfect for those who prioritize breathability and quick drying. The mesh and synthetic upper, along with drainage ports, ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable. The EVA footbed provides cushioning, and the siped rubber outsole gives you the grip you need on wet surfaces. Ideal for hot summer days when you’re constantly in and out of the water.
7. Adidas Terrex Climacool Boat Shoe
Price: $70 – $90
Material: Textile upper
Features: Climacool ventilation, drainage system, TRAXION outsole
Why It’s Great: The Adidas Terrex Climacool Boat Shoe is designed for maximum breathability, thanks to its Climacool ventilation system. The shoe’s drainage system ensures that water doesn’t get trapped inside, and the TRAXION outsole offers superb grip on wet surfaces. This shoe is lightweight and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for those who want a sporty, functional option.
8. Musto Dynamic Pro II Adapt Shoe
Price: $110 – $150
Material: TPU welded overlay and mesh
Features: XPL drainage system, GripDeck outsole, dual-density midsole
Why It’s Great: The Musto Dynamic Pro II Adapt Shoe is built for serious boating enthusiasts. The TPU welded overlay and mesh upper provide durability and breathability, while the XPL drainage system ensures water is quickly expelled from the shoe. The GripDeck outsole offers superior traction, and the dual-density midsole provides cushioning and support. This shoe is ideal for those who demand performance and comfort on the water.
Conclusion
When it comes to boating shoes, comfort, grip, and durability are key factors to consider. Whether you’re looking for a classic leather option like the Sperry Men’s Authentic Original or a sporty, breathable choice like the Adidas Terrex Climacool, there’s a perfect pair out there for every type of boater. Investing in a good pair of boating shoes not only enhances your comfort but also ensures safety as you navigate wet and slippery surfaces.
With a range of styles and prices, these 8 options offer something for everyone. So, step aboard this summer with confidence and style, knowing your feet are well taken care of!
Happy Boating!
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Read Boat Refueling 101: How to Safely Refuel Your Boat until we meet in the next article.