The 17 Best Sailing Shoes And Boots 2025
The best sailing shoes don’t need to be expensive, but they do need to meet a number of requirements – all equally important for you to be able to enjoy a good day (or longer!) of sailing.
Having lived onboard for three years now, we’ve used a range of different boating shoes and some have been more useful than others. To be honest, some we’ve barely used at all!
The shoes you’ll need for sailing will depend entirely on what kind of sailing you’re doing and where you’re doing, so I’m afraid there isn’t a simple ‘one size fits all’ (pun totally intended!) when it comes to picking a pair of shoes for out on the water.
Many people are happy to use a decent pair of outdoor shoes for sailing in, but others may be looking for shoes that are ideally suited to the job. This is especially important if you plan on sailing for longer periods of time or in rougher weather.
Before you decide on the best sailing shoes for you, let’s take a look at the different types of shoes and boots available.
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Table of Contents
The Best Sailing Shoes
🏆 Our Top Pick 🏆
The Men’s Helly Hansen HP Foil V2
The Women’s Helly Hansen HP Foil V2
The best shoes for sailing don’t have to be fancy or expensive, but they do need to keep your feet warm and dry in the harsh elements you run into out at sea.
We’ve reviewed some of the very best in the industry, and these are our top picks.
Best Traditional Sailing Shoes
High-quality traditional shoes for sailing can last you for years and will never go out of fashion on a yacht. If you’re after something stylish and practical then traditional sailing shoes are probably a great option for you.
They’ve been designed for use on a boat, so you won’t have to worry about things like whether the grip is good enough or whether they’ll mark the deck.
Here are our top picks!
#1 Dungarvan Lightweight Deck Shoe, Duberry
You can’t get much closer to perfection than the Duberry Dungarvan classic.
This shoe is a combination of classic style and modern performance technology, meaning you’ll look a cut above the rest but have the protection you really need out on the water.
These classic sailing shoes have shock absorption, decent support and excellent grip with Dubarry’s award-winning signature NonSlip-NonMarking™ outsoles. These shoes are also lightweight and comfortable. Adam lives in flip flops but can wear these all day.
They are handmade from DryFast-DrySoft™ leather with a water resistant finish. They might not be the best choice for cold weather sailing or anything too spicy, but they’re perfect for day sails and lounging around in the marina.
We love these classics. They’re smart, practical and long-lasting. Everything you could want in a deck shoe.
#2 Sperry Billfish Boat Shoe
You’ll find a few Sperry boat shoes on our list and for good reason. Sperry has built a legacy of heritage products over its 80 years, and they’re still just as popular today.
Sperry Billfish boat shoes are a great combination of style with some modern features, so you’re getting a bit of both for your money!
These hand-made Sperry boat shoes are water-resistant leather, combined with nylon air-mesh panels so they not only look great but they’re also durable, long-lasting, and supportive. These shoes breathe making them great in all weather – cooler in warmer climates and easy to dry if they get a little soaking!
Sperry shoes are designed for ultimate comfort, with a secure fit all the way around your feet, not just across your insteps. They have shock absorbers to help prevent foot, leg, and back pain which is especially good if you know you’ll be on your feet a lot.
And obviously, they are skid-proof and non-marking.
The women’s version of these boat shoes have all the same great features with a slightly different, stylish look.
✔ Buy men’s now from Amazon
✔ Buy women’s now from West Marine
#3 Columbia Boatdrainer
These boat shoes don’t look quite as classic as some of the options on here but they do combine style with practicality and comfort. These are the sort of shoes that will work on and off the boat.
The leather and mesh uppers feature the advanced water and stain-resistant treatment, making these perfect for not only sailing but fishing too. They drain off the water quickly to keep your feet dry and the mesh helps to keep you cool too.
The Omni-Grip™ outsoles ensure you won’t have a problem when the decks get slippery and they also have comfort support insoles to keep your feet from getting tired after a full day out on the water.
#4 West Marine Men’s Performance Boat Shoes
These are by far the best budget boat shoes out there. You get quality, comfortable shoes for a fraction of the price of some of the other brands out there.
Of course, that does mean they’re a little simpler but if you’re after something for weekends out on the water you can’t really go wrong with a pair of these!
They’re water-resistant with drainage built into the outside for quick drying. They’re comfy enough and slip-resistant too! They also look pretty classy.
#5 Sperry Originals Boat Shoes
The classic boat shoe. You can’t really go wrong with a pair of these for any occasion.
The original Sperry boat shoes are made from genuine all-leather uppers for years of wear. They ‘wear in’ well, meaning they just get more and more comfortable – great for running around on deck all day.
You can wear these shoes barefoot or with socks, whatever takes your fancy. Plus they’re obviously designed with excellent grip in mind and are non-marking to keep those decks clean!
✔ Buy men’s now from West Marine
✔ Buy women’s now from West Marine
#6 Sandhaven Deck Shoe For Women
Helly Hanson has this fun and quirky take on the traditional deck shoe for women. They have a super cute design and would look great with any summer outfit, but they’re also great quality and practical for days out onboard!
Best Modern Sailing Shoes
If you’re looking to put practicality above style then you’re not alone. Many sailors are switching out their traditional boat shoes for a more modern, more practical style.
If you’re looking for some of the best boat shoes out there then check out these top picks!
#7 Helly Hanson HP Foil V2
Helly Hanson is well known for their excellent range in sailing clothes, and their shoes are no different. They have a great reputation for producing quality outdoor products that are well researched and designed with sport in mind.
These modern boat shoes are made from a combination of synthetic and mesh for protection, comfort, and breathability. They’re non-marking and the rubber soles give excellent grip in wet or dry conditions.
These shoes are made for long days out on the water. They’re lightweight and comfortable, breathable, and have a custom outsole built for multipurpose water sports use. You should note that these shoes aren’t waterproof, but they are quick dry, so they’re better for warmer climate sailing!
✔ Buy the men’s version now from Helly Hansen
✔ Buy the women’s version from Helly Hansen
#8 Men’s Skagen F-1 Offshore Sailing Shoes
These modern sailing shoes are some of the best out there, and so many people we’ve met sailing adore these shoes.
They look like a regular sneaker, so you can wear them off the boat as well as onboard, but they have some features that make them perfect for harsh outdoor environments.
The open-mesh construction means they’re breathable and flexible, but they have structural overlays that will protect your feet.
The insole is quick drying and has an antibacterial treatment that should stop them from smelling (we’re not doing a smell test though I’m afraid!)
These are grippy and non-marking as you’d expect, but they’re also extremely comfortable. Helly Hansen gear never disappoints, and these shoes are yet another example of some great sailing gear from them!
#9 Women’s Sydney Lightweight Performance Sailing Shoe
This is Duberry’s latest addition to their awesome range of sailing shoes. It’s a high performance technical trainer that you can rely on when out on the water.
A few of it’s best features include the clever low-profile sole that gives you maximum contact with the deck, the breathable mesh that’s flexible enough to give you excellent movement while still being supportive and the shock-absorbant footbed.
These are a great choice for race sailors and hobby sailors alike, and we can guarantee you’re going to want to wear them for more than just your sailing adventures!
#10 Columbia Tamiami Boat Shoe
Unlike most fabrics that absorb moisture, the Tamiami boat shoe is designed to repel moisture and dries quickly—avoiding stains and keeping you clean.
The stain-resistant materials are absolutely perfect for anyone who loves to fish from their boat!
This boat shoe is a lace-up design meaning it fits well to most foot types and the Omni-GRIP outsole matches specially formulated non-marking technology and a tread designed for maximum wet deck traction.
They also look pretty smart too, which is always a bonus!
#11 Sperry Men’s 7 Seas 3-Eye Boating Shoe
This is one of Sperry’s more modern-looking designs and they haven’t compromised on their usual quality. Perfect for sailing and life around the water, this sneaker is all about performance.
Sperry has used hydrophobic materials to resist water and dry quickly. They have their usual signature razor-cut grip to prevent slipping on wet decks, and of course, they are non-marking.
These shoes have all the features of the classic Sperry boat shoes but using modern materials and with a more modern look.
#12 Men’s CPH Eco Slip-ons
These are a great pair for those sailors on a budget, that still want to invest in quality footwear for sailing.
These don’t have all the fancy features of some of the shoes on our list, but they do look super cool and have fantastic grip, and are quick dry. They’re a great option for anyone who sails casually in fair weather but still wants a reliable sailing shoe that will last.
Best Sailing Boots for Rough Weather
For foul-weather sailing, nothing beats a good quality pair of sailing boots. These will keep you dry, warm, and safe without compromising your movement too much.
Sailing boots should offer more protection from the wind, wet, and cold than a normal pair of sailing shoes. They should also be totally waterproof, as it’s likely that if you need a pair of boots then you’re out in some pretty bad weather.
Our top picks are listed below!
#13 Men’s Nordvik 2 Rubber Sailing Boots
Helly Hansen have designed these lower-cut sailing boots to be fully waterproof, with a soft inner insole for comfort and an outsole that has a superb grip on slippery surfaces. They’re also lightweight so they feel great to move around in on deck.
If you’re looking for something that would be perfect for wet, rainy days or for winter life in a marina then these sailing boots are a solid choice.
#14 Gill Tall Sailing Boot
Gill is another sailing brand with an excellent reputation, and these sailing boots are a great budget option if you’re after a pair of wet-weather sailing boots that don’t break the bank. These boots are comfortable and practical for use in wet weather.
They have reasonable grip and although they aren’t as insulated as some other sailing boots out there, there is plenty of room inside for a pair of thick socks!
Just make sure the high leg on these boots will definitely fit you, as with wellington boots they can be poorly suited to some leg shapes.
#15 Dubarry Ultima Sailing Boots
Dubarry has an unmatched reputation when it comes to sailing boots and it isn’t hard to see why. These sailing boots are not only top quality but they look the part too.
These all-leather sailing boots scream quality (and have a price tag to match!) but if you’re looking for a special present for someone or to treat yourself then you can’t go wrong with these sailing boots.
They have a loop to help pull them on, as well as a stretch panel at the back, and they are also available in ‘ExtraFit’ sizes for the wide calved. They grip well, especially after a few uses, and the Gore-Tex lining gives good insulation.
#16 Crosshaven Sailing Boot
Another impressive sailing boot by Duberry. These gaiter sailing boots are thermally insulated with minimal seams, meaning wear is reduced and your boots should last.
They have a reinforced toe and heel to add extra protection and support. The insulation is impressive. These boots are warm!
The gaiter section is lightweight making these really comfortable to move it. They have a draw-cord collar that prevents any wash back and a drainage mesh at the bottom of the leg.
These are serious boots for serious sailors.
#17 Huk Sailing Boots
The Rogue Wave sailing boot is shorter than some of the other options on here, making it a little more comfortable for some. Obviously, it’s not quite as waterproof but most of the time you’ll be wearing your sailing boots under foulies anyway, so you probably won’t notice.
It’s full neoprene and rubber upper construction provide durability and comfort. It has handy heavy-duty tabs to make getting them on and off easier and wet traction, non-marking outsole.
Types Of Sailing Footwear
Most sailors these days opt for the more modern, all-weather sailing shoes but it is still possible to get traditional ones, which tend to be a little more stylish looking and made of natural materials.
You can also opt for sailing boots which are especially practical for offshore sailing or sailing in colder climates.
Traditional Sailing Shoes
Traditional sailing shoes have been around for almost a century. These are the kind of shoes you’ll automatically imagine gentlemen sailors wearing!
They’re more of a style statement and don’t tend to be completely waterproof, as they’re usually made from suede leather and are soft and flexible.
If you’re planning on coastal sailing on nice, sunny days then opting for something a little more stylish may be right for you. They are still designed for sailing, with flat soles and a non-slip texture designed for wearing on deck.
Modern Waterproof Sailing Footwear
As you’d expect, modern sailing footwear use synthetic materials to create waterproof sailing shoes that are practical for all weather.
They have a definite technology advantage over the better-looking traditional shoes, and most are designed with some great extra features to ensure your time onboard is as comfortable and safe as possible.
Race sailors often opt for modern sailing shoes that will get the job done.
Sailing Boots
These are a great option for foul weather sailing, and a useful item of clothing to have in your wardrobe if you sail frequently or are planning a longer trip.
These boots resemble snow or rain boots, and they’re made of a waterproof material such as rubber.
The downside of sailing boots is that they tend to be a little harder to get around in – think wellington boots but obviously a lot more practical!
What To Look For In A Pair Of Sailing Boots Or Shoes
Waterproof Or Water Resistant
This is a pretty obvious one, but not all boat shoes are made equal, so it’s important to check the data on just how waterproof they are.
When you’re buying shoes for your days aboard, the chances are they’ll be water-resistant rather than waterproof, as it’s far more practical to wear everyday shoes that aren’t ‘sealed’. For most sailors, water-resistant sailing shoes will be perfectly adequate.
If you’re sailing in extreme weather conditions then you might be better opting for a pair of waterproof sailing boots.
Breathable
You want your shoes for sailing to be able to breathe, and this is equally important for cold and warm climates.
Breathable shoes will enable our feet to cool down quickly, or help wick away moisture in cooler temperatures to help keep your feet dry!
Comfortable
If you’re wearing your shoes all day you want them to be comfortable as well as practical. You won’t enjoy yourself if you’re constantly thinking about the pain in your feet!
Opt for a pair of shoes that have a good comfort reputation, as you’re going to be moving around a lot in these shoes and you to enjoy wearing them – not desperately counting down the hours until you can remove them!
Supportive
With lots of uneven surfaces you need shoes for sailing that will be supportive as well as comfortable. Falls are a lot less likely to happen if your shoes are designed to support your feet and ankles.
Most shoes designed for use on board will have inbuilt support features, and you can always individualise them more with a pair of well-fitting insoles to suit the shape of your feet.
Non-skid
Our sailing shoes have been worth their weight in gold when it comes to preventing us from slipping on wet or dewy decks. Your pair need to have decent non-skid soles to prevent against slips and falls as a big priority!
Check in the data description how well the soles of the shoes have been designed to help you grip effortlessly onto less than ideal surfaces!
Non-marking
Boat owners tend to be pretty precious about their decks, whether they’re white or teak. If you don’t own the boat you’ll be sailing on, buying a pair of non-marking sailing footwear is especially important!
Most shoes for sailing will have made non-marking soles a top priority, but be sure to check before you buy if you plan on getting a pair of non-specific shoes! Marking the decks is a sure fire way to lose friends fast!!
Conclusion: The Best Sailing Shoes
We hope this article has helped you find the perfect boat shoes or boots for you and your planned sailing goals, and if you’re looking for more advice on essential gear for sailing then we’ve got you covered!
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Can you explain the importance of proper grip and traction in sailing shoes, especially during rough weather conditions?