Laid-back luxe vibes are back, and we’re all for it! Loafers, boat shoes, and moccasins have dominated runways, proving that “fusty” is now fashionable. With dad hats, pants, and sneakers already making waves, the real question is—loafers or boat shoes?
Whether you’re shopping for your next statement shoe or need the perfect pair for a meeting, we’ve got you covered. Once yacht-deck exclusives, these classics have been revamped and are cooler than ever.
So, which wins the style battle? We’re breaking it all down—because the right pair won’t just elevate your outfit, it’ll take you from “dad” to daddy in no time. Let’s dive in!
1. The lacing
We had to start with laces because they’re one of the most prominent differences between the two types of shoes. When we’re talking about the whole “loafers vs. boat shoes” thing, we can’t brush over the fact that loafers don’t have laces while boat shoes do.
First things first, loafers are known as slip-on shoes, meaning they’re not made with any type of laces, fastenings, or closings. When you want to wear loafers, you simply slip them on and go – and that’s why you have to make sure you get the right style and fit for yourself.
However, boat shoes come with laces that are typically placed on the upper of the shoe. Boat shoes are known for their lace pattern because they were originally made with peripheral or side lacing, known as 360-degree lacing.
So, the OG boat shoes had laces that went all the way around the shoe and fastened at the front. Nowadays, you can find some designers making the same, OG boat shoes, but most feature the laces on the upper rather than around the shoe.
2. The heels
When you take a closer look at loafers and boat shoes, you’re guaranteed to notice the heel difference. Whether you’re planning on getting new shoes for a meeting, an event, or even a date, the “loafers vs. boat shoes” battle might help you understand which ones are better for the occasion.
Loafers are generally considered semi-formal which means they’re pretty similar to dress shoes. They’re made with distinct soles and heels that are attached to them (which means the heels are higher than those of other, more casual shoes).
Also, they’re made from different materials and fabrics such as rubber, leather, and EVA. Their soles and heels are attached using the same methods as those of dress shoes – cementing, Blake-stitching, or Goodyear Welting.
Boat shoes, on the other hand, have thicker, sneaker-like rubber soles that don’t feature attached heels (the heels are more like an extension of the soles).
Soles on these shoes are embellished with herringbone patterns which provide traction to prevent slipping and falling. Boat shoes are relaxed, easy-going, and casual, unlike loafers.
3. The toes
Oh, the toes are different, too! We know you might be thinking “Why on Earth would toes matter?!” but the toes make a world of difference when we’re talking about the overall appearance of the shoe. And, the toe box plays a role when we’re talking about what occasions different shoes are appropriate for.
With that out of the way, loafers and boat shoes do have different toe boxes. Loafers have apron toes and boat shoes have moc toes – both of which appear to be a fancy name for a piece of leather stitched on the upper of the shoe.
And, that piece of leather can be placed on different parts of the upper, giving off different vibes. When we’re talking about loafers, for example, the piece of leather doesn’t extend to the toes. Apron toes stop around the area where the beginning of your toes would be.
When we’re talking about boat shoes, the piece of leather does extend all the way to the toes.
4. The outsoles
We already mentioned the outsoles when we were talking about heels, but there’s nothing wrong with repeating some of the things we learned.
Now, the outsoles might play a huge part when we’re talking about which shoes win the “loafers vs. boat shoes” battle.
Depending on what you need them for, the outsoles might be the one thing that helps you decide between the two. Loafers are similar to dress shoes, which means they’re made with leather (or other synthetic alternatives).
Loafer outsoles can be made with grippier materials, but that’s not the case for the most part because they were never meant to be worn somewhere you would actually need slip resistance.
Also, loafers are meant to be more formal which means they’re designed to look polished, put-together, and expensive rather than practical.
However, boat shoes were always meant to be worn outside, on the boat, or on the beach. Hence, boat shoe outsoles are made with rubber and embellished with a herringbone pattern for added texture, traction, and protection.
Even though they’re no longer reserved for sailors and boaters, boat shoes are still made with the same features.
5. The fabrics
We decided to also mention the fabrics because they can make a difference, too. Both loafers and boat shoes are typically made with leather, suede, and/or Nubuck.
Loafers are more likely to be made from high-quality, premium genuine leather, but that’s not to say you can’t get them made from other fabrics, too.
On the other hand, boat shoes are more likely to be made from suede because they’re softer (and they’re meant to be more casual). Same as with loafers, you can get them made with other fabrics, too. Rubber outsoles are a notable difference, too.
Other than that, both loafers and boat shoes are so popular at the moment that you shouldn’t face trouble trying to find the perfect pair for yourself. Whether you prefer earth-toned, natural fabrics or fashion-forward, statement ones, you’re guaranteed to find what you’re looking for.
6. The Construction
Next up, the construction! Boat shoes boast a unique hand-sewn moccasin structure, crafted meticulously in cozy workshops. These shoes embrace tradition through their stitching.
Meanwhile, loafers embrace a more structured, slip-on design, often polished to perfection in modern studios. While boat shoes stay snug to your feet like a cozy hug, loafers offer a formal elegance. This difference in craftsmanship highlights each shoe’s personality.
Whether you favor the handcrafted allure of boat shoes or the sleek ease of loafers, these footwear options cater to distinct tastes. Choose based on your style preference and the vibe you want to portray.
7. The Fit
Let’s talk fit! Boat shoes snugly embrace bare feet, designed for adventures on a boat deck. Their snugness speaks of maritime tales and salty breezes.
Loafers, contrastingly, offer versatility, pairing well with or without socks. Picture stylish socks peeking out from a loafer as you stride through city streets. The choice between snug boat shoes and adaptable loafers depends on your environment and style.
Whether sailing under the sun or strolling urban avenues, each shoe offers comfort. Consider where your journey takes you and how you prefer to fit into your footwear.
8. The Details
Details, details, details! Boat shoes charm with rawhide laces intricately threaded through their sides, a nod to nautical roots. These laces offer a handcrafted touch, a connection to the sea.
Loafers, however, shine with decorative elements such as tassels, penny slots, or horse-bit detailing. These embellishments bring sophistication and flair, turning heads on any occasion. The choice of detail can define your footwear’s personality.
Whether you lean towards the rustic charm of boat shoes or the refined aesthetics of loafers, details matter. Express yourself through these unique touches and let your shoes tell your story.
9. The Formality
Loafers generally radiate formality, seamlessly transitioning from boardrooms to dinners. Their elegant design suits both business and evening events. Boat shoes, conversely, exude a casual, preppy style.
Picture a summer garden party where boat shoes complement shorts and light shirts. The formal or casual dilemma exists in these shoes’ DNA.
Choosing between loafers and boat shoes often reflects your event’s nature. Whether you’re heading to a laid-back gathering or a formal engagement, let your shoes fit the occasion, offering comfort and style that match your environment.
10. The Cultural Impact
Now, cultural impact! Loafers have strutted through fashion history, gracing magazines and red carpets. Their influence continues to inspire designers worldwide.
Boat shoes, on the flip side, carry a legacy tied to iconic sailors and celebrities on yachts, embodying a nautical lifestyle. This cultural impact shapes perceptions, influencing how these shoes are styled today. While loafers represent timeless elegance, boat shoes capture adventurous spirit.
These shoes don’t just protect feet—they narrate stories, echoing trends and traditions. Whether you’re drawn to the historical chic of loafers or the adventurous tales of boat shoes, cultural influence plays a key role.
11. When to wear loafers?
Loafers are great for pretty much every occasion you can think of. They’re easy to dress up or down because they’re semi-formal, but there’s a slight difference between the penny loafers, tassel loafers, horsebit loafers, and chunky loafers.
We could go on and on about how to style them, but here’s the bottom line.
Penny loafers, tassel loafers, and horsebit loafers are generally better for events, meetings, and other occasions where you want to look like you tried. Combine them with structured suit sets, chinos, clean, crisp button-downs, cashmere sweaters, and clean-cut coats.
Our fave is Dockers Mens Colleague Dress Penny Loafer Shoe. These loafers look classy and are a perfect choice when you want to look a bit more put together.
Chunky loafers are more relaxed and easy-going, and they’re great for grabbing lunch with friends or running errands (while staying on top of your fashion game). Combine them with denim, simple, white tees (or graphic tees), and even leather.
12. When to wear boat shoes?
Repeat after me: “I don’t have to go on a boat to wear boat shoes!” Now, the name might be a little confusing, but boat shoes are a great footwear staple because they’re comfortable, easy to wear, and easy to style.
Boat shoes are better for casual settings rather than events, but you can style them with workwear and formalwear, too.
These Sperry Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoes are great for the summer. Wear them with linen trousers, rolled-up sleeves on clean, crisp button-downs, and sunglasses for that “I have a boat” energy. Or, combine them with chinos, simple, white tees, and clean-cut blazers for something more appropriate for the office.
With that out of the way, how do you decide which ones to go with? We would go as far as to argue that the “loafers vs. boat shoes” battle doesn’t have a winner. Both shoes are equally stylish, comfortable, and dad-like, and you’re guaranteed to be happy with whatever you decide to go with. Good luck!