If you’ve scrolled through TikTok, flipped through a fashion magazine, or even just taken a stroll near the coast lately, there’s a good chance you’ve seen the resurgence of an iconic staple: the boat shoe. Once reserved for yacht decks and prep-school corridors, boat shoes have sailed back into the fashion mainstream—and this time, they’re more versatile, sustainable, and stylish than ever before. At the helm of this style wave is Rothy’s: our modern take on boat shoes for both men and women effortlessly blends comfort, chic design, and innovative craftsmanship—with a sustainable twist.
A Brief History of Boat Shoes
The origin of boat shoes dates back to 1935 when Paul Sperry, an avid sailor, developed a non-slip shoe inspired by his dog’s ability to run across icy surfaces without slipping. The result was the first Sperry Top-Sider, a functional deck shoe featuring a siped rubber sole for traction and leather uppers to withstand wet conditions.
While originally designed for utility, boat shoes quickly found a place in the preppy fashion canon during the ‘80s. They became synonymous with Ivy League aesthetics: khaki shorts, pastel polos, and weekend getaways to Cape Cod. Over the decades, their presence waned and waxed with shifting trends. But in 2025, slip on boat shoes are not just back—they’re everywhere, and they’re no longer just for the yacht club crowd.
The 2025 Boat Shoe Trend: A Modern Twist on a Classic Look
Today’s boat shoes aren’t bound by tradition. They’re being styled with everything from relaxed linen pants and sundresses to tailored shorts and denim. The resurgence is part of the broader “old money aesthetic” that has overtaken social media and high fashion, blending timeless silhouettes with a minimalist, elevated sensibility.
Rothy’s has redefined what boat shoes can be. Abiding by our commitment towards sustainability and clean design, Rothy’s boat shoes update classic style with modern materials, smart tailoring, and unmatched comfort. Whether you’re drawn to fashion-forward neutrals or soft nautical tones, there’s a pair for every wardrobe. Discover some of the best boat shoes from Rothy’s.
Rothy’s Boat Shoes for Women
Rothy’s boat shoes for women are the epitome of chic luxury. With a sleek, feminine silhouette, breathable hemp-knit uppers, and a soft cushioned insole, these shoes are designed for women on the go who don’t want to sacrifice style for comfort. Available in a variety of shades like beige, pink, tan, and navy blue, Rothy’s women’s boat shoes pair perfectly with everything from cropped jeans to breezy midi dresses.
For a casual brunch date or an afternoon of city strolling, style them with a crisp white button-down and a pair of high-waisted linen trousers. Need a chic but low-key option for a casual summer wedding? Go for a pastel dress and Rothy’s boat shoes in a complementary neutral hue—they’ll keep your feet cool and comfortable even on the dance floor.
Rothy’s Boat Shoes for Men
On the men’s side, Rothy’s boat shoes strike the ideal balance between coastal cool and downtown edge. They’re perfect for guys looking to elevate their casual outfits with a touch of refinement. Constructed with the same sustainable knit as the women’s styles, our boat shoes come in versatile tones like navy blue, brown, and beige.
Pair them with cuffed chinos and a short-sleeve camp collar shirt for a polished date night outfit, or throw them on with tailored shorts and a polo for a beachside dinner. They also transition seamlessly from day to night—just swap your tee for a lightweight button-up, and you’re ready for rooftop cocktails or a laid-back networking event.
Where to Wear Boat Shoes
One of the biggest appeals of our boat shoes is their sheer versatility. They’re designed to move with you through a variety of settings, whether you’re spending a day by the water or heading into a casual office.
Here are just a few places you can wear them:
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Casual Dinners or Dates: They give off a relaxed elegance that’s perfect for a café lunch or evening tapas.
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Summer Weddings: Especially those on the beach or in a garden—Rothy’s keep you stylish without sacrificing comfort.
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Weekend Getaways: Lightweight and packable, they’re ideal for spontaneous trips.
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Outdoor Events: From art walks to local markets, they’re stylish enough to be noticed, but comfortable enough to keep you going.
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Day-to-Night Outfits: These shoes can easily transition from daywear to a slightly dressier evening look with the right outfit tweaks.
Why Rothy’s Boat Shoes Stand Out
Our boat shoes are made with a blend of breathable hemp and our signature thread spun from recycled plastic water bottles. The result? A lower carbon footprint and shoes that are incredibly lightweight, breathable, and flexible.
But the benefits don’t stop at sustainability:
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Washable: That’s right—our boat shoes are 100% machine washable. Just toss them in the wash and they come out looking fresh. It’s ideal for those inevitable summer spills or muddy festival fields.
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Comfortable: Rothy’s boat shoe loafers are designed for a comfortable fit and all-day wear. Whether you’re walking city blocks or sailing into the sunset, you won’t be counting down the minutes to take them off.
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Stylish: With their clean lines, thoughtful color palettes, and minimalist design, these boat shoes fit right into 2025’s understated luxury trend.
- Versatile: Dress them up or down—these shoes do both effortlessly.
Final Thoughts
Boat shoes have traveled a long way from their nautical roots. This year, we’re redefining what it means to be both timeless and trendy. However, the boat shoe renaissance is not just about aesthetics—it’s about making smart, sustainable choices that look and feel amazing. And our boat shoes undoubtedly deliver in every way.
So whether you’re chasing the old money aesthetic, looking for the perfect travel companion, or just want a shoe that works for virtually every occasion, Rothy’s boat shoes are a must-have this season. Slip on a pair—you might just find yourself wondering how you ever lived without them.
