Summer Might Be Over, But Our Obsession With Boat Shoes Certainly Isn't
The between-seasons shoe you never knew you needed
I don't know about you, but the sudden change in weather has got me excited for the new season. From light jackets to richer colour palettes, I’m honing in on any trends that I can wear now and carry through into the imminent colder days, too.
First, it was leather jackets I was lusting after, thanks to their ability to keep me dry through all the unexpected showers, then cosy yet versatile cardigans were at the top of my wish list. Now, I’m turning my eye to trans-seasonal shoe trends—and there’s one style I’ve found myself drawn to above all: boat shoes.
Made from leather and featuring non-marking rubber soles and laces, boat shoes may call to mind sweltering summers spent hopping between yachts (in our dreams, at least...), but their sturdy, non-slip, waterproof composition makes them a particularly good choice for the unpredictable between-seasons weather, too.
They're not just practical, either: boat shoes have been continually gaining popularity among the style set in recent years, thanks in large part to their appearance in the Miu Miu Spring/Summer 2024 collection. The Italian brand's distressed brown leather pair transformed the shoe from seafarers-only to designer must-have, and continues to be a cult wardrobe item still today.
Since then, the likes of Loewe, Celine, Jacquemus, Valentino and Aeyde have also released their own elevated takes on the trend, serving to further cement the boat shoe's newly stylish status. As has the fact that tastemakers like Claire Rose Cliteur, Anouk Yve, Denise Norgaard and Lori Hirshleifer can't stop wearing them.
The trick to styling boat shoes for autumn 2025? Embrace their innately preppy, old-money vibes by pairing them with grey cable-knits, straight-leg jeans, and the season's trending rugby shirts—without taking the aesthetic too far into country club dad territory. That is: steer clear of chinos and slacks, and add an unexpected fashion touch in the form of an oversize leather jacket, pleated kilt, chic designer bag, distressed denim, chunky socks, mega sunglasses, or whatever best suits your personal style.
Just think of boat shoes as the shiny leather loafer's more low-key younger sister, that make the perfect on-trend finishing touch to most any casual, everyday look—come rain or shine. If you opt for a suede iteration, however, you might want to check the weather (or invest in a protective spray) first.
So, without further ado, below are the best boat shoes to shop right now and wear all season long—from designer styles to high-street hits.
Shop The Best Boat Shoes
Make like the model and pair with a head-to-toe white look for a fresh take on country club chic. Just add a grey knit around your shoulders to stave off the chill.
A dead ringer for Miu Miu's viral style, but for a fraction of the price.
For a more structured, polished style—verging on a classic loafer—look no further than Aeyde.
If you're looking for a designer pair, why not choose the OG style itself?
The perfect brown suede boat shoes for less than £150, loved by fashion insiders aplenty.
I love the green lace on these, and the fact that they can be worn backless, too.
Not only are these Reformation boat shoes incredibly chic in clean white, but they're also on major sale right now. It's a sign.
An excellent affordable option, courtesy of H&M.
