
Buying Guide for Women’s Boat Shoes

Why buy women’s boat shoes?
Boat shoes are designed to provide excellent traction with their thick treads and fitted shape. They keep you level aboard a boat (hence the name) while being easy-on, easy-off shoes. Yet boat shoes go beyond the docks and shores as a favorite for casual, everyday wear. They effortlessly bridge the gap between casual and classy, making them the go-to footwear choice for laid-back gatherings, weekend escapades, and spontaneous yacht parties (if you’re lucky enough to score an invitation).
What should you consider in women’s boat shoes?
- Traction: Boat shoes are made to be slip-resistant, but some treads are better than others. Look for thicker soles with deep treads to keep you on your feet. Higher-quality boat shoes have great traction that should last beyond one season.
- Sizing: Be careful when buying shoes online that you read the sizing chart carefully. Some shoes are made tight, so you may need to size up, and some are loose-fitting, so you may need to size down.
- Water Resistance: It may seem odd, but not all boat shoes are water-resistant. They may be made of leather or other materials that will get ruined if submerged. However, other boat shoes are waterproof or even water-loving.
How much can you expect to spend on a good pair of boat shoes?
A well-made pair of boat shoes can run a little steep, even up to $300. However, most boat shoes range from $25-$150. Our picks are quality-made and fall around the middle of that price range.
Our Picks for the Best Women’s Boat Shoes
Skechers Women's Go Walk Lite Boat Shoe
From a trusted brand that designs comfortable shoes, these boat shoes have thick traction and maximum cushion insoles.
Pros: These classic boat shoes come in lots of different sizes, including half sizes and wide sizes. They’re made to slip on and off easily and have great traction, comfortable insoles, and a light weight. They’re comfortable to wear for extended periods, and the responsive cushioning provides excellent support and shock absorption. Easily slip them on and off for when you’re in a hurry or need to quickly change your footwear. The soft fabric lining prevents irritation and provides a smooth and cozy feel against your skin.
Cons: The cushioned insoles wear down quickly. Also, the treads can wear out quickly if worn solely on the pavement. The fixed laces may not be snug enough for all feet.
Bottom Line: For a solid pair of boat shoes from a trusted name in comfort, these are a great selection. You can be sure you’re getting top quality for a great value. And they’re soft on bare feet, so you don’t have to grab a pair of socks to wear with them if you don’t want to.
Sperry Women's Crest Vibe
These women's boat shoes are made with top-quality care and style.
Pros: These boat shoes are designed with a durable sneaker construction, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability for various outdoor activities. With their elastic back design, they provide a secure slip-on fit, offering convenience and comfort throughout the day. The non-marking rubber outsoles enhance grip on different surfaces, providing reliable traction and stability, especially in wet or slippery conditions. These boat shoes are a versatile choice for outdoor adventures and casual wear.
Cons: They run a bit narrow, so be wary when ordering. The fixed laces are dyed leather, which may stain the shoe fabric when wet. There’s not a lot of arch support, which can be a concern for some.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for boat shoes that offer durability, comfort, and functionality, these are an excellent choice. With a durable sneaker construction and rustproof eyelets, they are designed to withstand various outdoor activities and moist environments. Whether you’re embarking on outdoor adventures or seeking casual comfort, these boat shoes deliver on all fronts.
Hey Dude Women's Wendy Chambray Shoes
These chic boat shoes will make you feel like you're walking on a cloud.
Pros: These shoes offer several compelling reasons to consider them for your footwear collection. The leather soles provide a durable and high-quality foundation for long-lasting wear. The rounded toe design and flex and fold feature promote healthy feet by allowing complete freedom of movement. This unique shape sets them apart and makes them an ideal choice for modern casual styling. Weighing under 5 ounces, they are incredibly light, ensuring a comfortable and effortless walking experience. The elastic laces add to the overall flexibility, allowing the shoes to adapt and fit more uniformly to your feet. The removable memory foam cushioned insole provides exceptional comfort, reducing sweat and odors even during extended wear. The machine-washable feature adds practicality, making it easy to keep them clean and fresh.
Cons: Many buyers found that the shoes run large, which can be problematic as there are no half sizes available. Some customers experienced issues with the fit, including wide and sloppy sizing, lack of support, and fabric pulling on the toes. The shoes were also noted to be slippery in wet conditions, posing a safety risk.
Bottom Line: Overall, these shoes offer a combination of style, comfort, and functionality. Whether you’re exploring new places, embarking on a travel adventure, or simply going about your daily activities, these shoes provide the confidence and versatility to fit into any occasion for a great price.
Pros: The Angelfish boat shoes by Sperry are made of 100% genuine leather, which not only offers durability but also allows for years of wear. The EVA molded midsole provides excellent support and comfort, making them ideal for longer wear. The razor-cut rubber outsoles deliver superior traction on both wet and dry surfaces. Additionally, the memory foam footbed offers cushioning and extra comfort. The hand-sewn construction with a padded tongue promotes overall comfort and lasting wear. The adjustable 360-degree lacing system guarantees a secure and personalized fit, making these boat shoes a reliable choice for any adventure on land or sea.
Cons: Some customers have experienced durability issues, such as the mesh developing holes after a few months of wear. Some users have also found the fit to be uncomfortable, particularly from tight toe boxes.
Bottom Line: Embrace comfort, durability, and style with the Angelfish boat shoes by Sperry. Crafted from 100% genuine leather, these shoes are built to withstand years of wear. Enjoy ultimate traction on any surface, wet or dry. Whether you’re on land or at sea, these boat shoes are your reliable companion for adventure.
Betrue Lightweight Boat Shoes for Women
These adorable loafers are made to slip on and off easily for summer vacation fun.
Pros: If you’re looking for women’s boat shoes that offer comfort, convenience, and style, these are another great choice. The round toe design provides more space, and the slip-on style makes them easy to put on and take off. Made with lightweight and comfortable construction, these loafers feature a honeycomb air vent insole that offers excellent comfort and resilience. The anti-skid durable soles ensure stability while walking. The breathable knit uppers and cotton lining enhance breathability and provide added comfort. These boat shoes come in three different colors: white, canary pink, and warm pink. They’re super breathable, so you don’t have to worry about wearing socks. Plus, they have flexible soles for a comfortable stride. These versatile shoes can be worn throughout the year and are suitable for various occasions, including work, walking, driving, and traveling. With their fashionable design and superior comfort, these canvas loafers are a must-have addition to your wardrobe.
Cons: It’s worth noting that these boat shoes have been reported to run large, so it’s recommended to size down when purchasing. Some buyers have expressed dissatisfaction with the insoles, finding them uncomfortable and opting to replace them with more suitable alternatives. Additionally, a few customers have mentioned that these shoes sit relatively high on the foot, which can potentially lead to rubbing or discomfort during extended wear.
Bottom Line: These are a great buy for easy on and off wear. If you’re looking for an easy shoe to tighten, the elastic straps on these are adjustable. Plus, they’re great for all-day wear.
Final Thoughts
There’s a misconception about boat shoes belonging to a “posh” wardrobe; you can wear boat shoes with just about anything and rock your unique style.