For a shoe that’s been around since 1935, boat shoes have sailed in and out of fashion like an unpredictable tide. But 2025 is shaping up to be their year, not just as a nostalgic nod to yacht clubs and preppy vibes but as a genuine footwear trend that is swiftly infiltrating closets.
The classic deck shoe, originally crafted by Paul Sperry after watching his dog’s non-slip paws save him from slipping on wet decks, was built for function first. With grippy rubber soles and water-resistant leather, it became the go-to for sailors and has been slipping in and out of the fashion zeitgeist ever since. Fast forward nearly 90 years and boat shoes have been given a bold new lease on life, showing up on high-fashion runways from Miu Miu to Dior, and as the star of the Jacquemus x Timberland collaboration.
Boat shoe sales have just seen their first boost in a decade, with a 24 percent jump in the first quarter of 2025 compared to last year. Sure, the numbers still lag behind their 2010s peak, but the momentum is real. The rise is driven mostly by men’s styles, though women’s boat shoes are growing even faster, thanks to new takes that blend boat shoes with flats and ballerinas, offering a versatile alternative to sandals or boots.
Luxury brands have joined the party with sleek, city-ready designs. Bally’s almond-toe, slight-heel versions, Sacai’s chunky-soled interpretations, and Dior’s two-tone runway drops show how far the style has stretched beyond its sun-soaked roots. Meanwhile, legacy labels like Sperry have rebooted their classics with vibrant colors, slimmer profiles, and collaborations with cool labels like Aritzia and Todd Snyder — some selling out within hours.
The trend is more than just a cycle of nostalgia. It taps into a wider shift away from the endless sneaker craze toward classic, wearable silhouettes that don’t scream “trend” but still feel fresh and relevant. Whether you’re navigating city streets or coastal escapes, these shoes offer a smart, stylish option that’s ready to keep pace with whatever your day demands.
ALSO READ: #BUROSPOTLIGHTS: EGYPTIAN CALLIGRAPHY ARTIST DIAA ALLAM.
