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Buying Boat Shoes With Adventure In Mind

How to select the right boat shoes for active boaters.

We all have a pair of trusty boat shoes, many of us probably more than one—the ones we wear out on the boat, the ones we wear for a “dressier” occasion, and maybe even the ones we wear every other day. But what about when you need a shoe that not only works for boating but also for some adventure? We’ve compiled several pairs that are just as comfortable on board as they are exploring a beach trail or on a light hiking adventure.

ASTRAL Brewer 2.0 boating shoes
Astral Brewer 2.0 Garrett Cortese

With a hydrophobic canvas side and full mesh construction at the vamp, tongue and medial side, the Brewer 2.0 is lightweight, breathable and ready for the water. Drain ports at the heel and toe allow water to run out, and the nonmarking rubber outsole features razor siping and plenty of grip.

$110; astraldesigns.com

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Merrell Tideriser Lace boat shoes
Merrell Tideriser Lace Garrett Cortese

Featuring Merrell’s Hydramorph midsole, channels and ports disperse water while encouraging airflow. The Vibram Wavegrip sole is grippy on wet surfaces, while the integrated 2 mm lugs provide traction on a trail. Synthetic and mesh materials keep the Tideriser airy and quick-drying.

$110; merrell.com

Columbia Force 12 II PFG boat shoes
Columbia Force 12 II PFG Garrett Cortese

Initially designed for hardcore anglers, the Force 12 II design works well in a variety of boating environments and offers plenty of comfort. The open-mesh and synthetic upper dries quickly and is treated with Columbia’s Blood and Guts stain resistance. The Vibram outsole offers plenty of grip on wet surfaces.

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$125; columbia.com

SALOMON Amphib Bold boat shoes
Salomon Amphib Bold Garrett Cortese

The EVA sock liner is not only comfortable, it’s connected to the upper to prevent debris from entering the shoe. For convenience, the heel collapses, turning the shoe into a slide. Mesh all around keeps air flowing in and water flowing out. The Contragrip sole features both flat and siped lugs for grip on wet and dry surfaces. The Quicklace system is easy and convenient, while a pocket allows for storage.

$99.95; salomon.com

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Read Next: How To Pick The Right Boat Shoes

Sperry Harbormaster boating shoes
Sperry Harbormaster Garrett Cortese

With Sperry’s patented Adaptive Wave-Siping soles, the Harbormaster provides all the grip you need on wet surfaces, while the leather and mesh uppers and padded tongue provide more support and comfort for longer walks and light hikes.

$79.95; sperry.com

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