When it comes to footwear, real boaters are no longer restricted to shrimp boots and Docksiders. There are a plethora of seaworthy shoe options out there today for all different kinds of weather conditions. Here are three to consider for the spring and summer seasons.
Helly Hansen Supalight Watersports Shoes
The Tread: These lightweight sneakers made from recycled materials pack some heavyweight traction with the company’s HH Max Grip sole. Breathable yet water–resistant, they’re great for coastal boaters looking for more-athletic boat shoes for moderate temps and are stylish enough to wear to the local dockside restaurant.
The Dread: Not fully waterproof and not intended to provide warmth in harsher conditions.
Price: $125; hellyhansen.com
Xtratuf Unisex Nylon Homer II Slip-Ons
The Tread: We live in an era where people want to wear slippers to work, and now you can wear them on your boat too with these water-resistant slip-ons lined inside with a comfy faux sherpa fleece. Designed for Alaskan deckhands, they’ll keep your feet warm, and the slip-resistant outsole keeps you safe on deck.
The Dread: Water-resistant is not waterproof, and the soft slip-on is not meant to provide rugged support on deck.
Price: $105; xtratuf.com
Read Next: Three Grundéns Shoes Made for Boating
Grundéns Deck Boss Sandals
The Tread: Most flip-flops don’t have what it takes to work well in a boating environment. Leave it to Grundéns to make a sandal that can cut the mustard on deck. With its rugged build, shock-absorbing footbed and an outsole designed to keep traction on wet surfaces, Deck Boss sandals are hard to beat. They also provide a surprising amount of arch support.
The Dread: Sandals offer no sun or weather protection and also lack the lateral stability of traditional boots and deck shoes.
Price: $64.99; grundens.com
