Best Boat Shoes for Women Over 50 That Are Affordable, Stylish and Comfortable: 7 Cushioned Options

While sunny weather and days spent on the boat may not be all year round for most of us, boat shoes can be (well, maybe not for the snow, but you get the gist). The preppy-chic style works just as well in summer as a closed-toe option for the days you want to ditch the sandals as it does in the fall for a comfy slip-on pick. Boat shoes essentially are the more casual sister shoe to loafers, and are typically more lightweight and easy for everyday wear. That’s why we rounded up the best boat shoes for women over 50 that are not only stylish, but keep comfort top of mind with features like arch support, cushioning and more.

What to look for in boat shoes for women over 50

As we age, our feet develop certain needs we need to fulfill to keep them happy — especially as women. Women especially deal with foot aches and pains from plantar fasciitis to bunions and corns and more. That’s why it’s so important for us to take care of our feet by choosing the right shoes. Keep reading for a few things to look for in boat shoes for women over 50.

Boat shoes with arch support

As mentioned, plantar fasciitis is a very common foot issue many women deal with, and it can be extremely painful, especially if you’re not wearing supportive shoes. Shoes with arch support can help give your foot back that natural arch it’s lacking, whether from plantar fasciitis or just your foot’s arch naturally “flattening” with age.

Boat shoes with cushioning

Next, consider options that have adequate cushioning. Not having proper, supportive cushioning can leave feet sore and painful, and also probably won’t last you as long. Shoes that seem very “thin” probably do not have enough cushioning for your feet, so best to stay away from these styles.

Boat shoes with security

Since boat shoes are slip-on style, you’ll want to make sure they aren’t too “loose” where your heel will slip out while walking. On the contrary, you’ll also want to make sure they aren’t too small or tight where they’ll leave you with painful blisters, since boat shoes are closed-toed and have a heel backing. Read reviews before buying a pair to see if they run true-to-size or if you need to size up or down.

The 7 best boat shoes for women over 50

Keep reading for the best boat shoes for women over 50 that are supportive, comfortable and chic.

Columbia Boatside Breathe PFG

The first thing that caught our eye about Columbia Boatside Breath PFG boat shoes was the breathable mesh fabric. This is great for those beginning weeks of fall where it’s a little chillier but not quite cold, and your feet are likely to still get hot and sweaty. Plus, they feature special grip and traction technology, and foam cushioning.

Sperry Starfish Boat Shoes

If you’re familiar with boat shoes at all, you’re probably familiar with Sperry, the brand many consider to be the “OG” or poster shoe for boat shoes. So of course, we had to add Sperry Starfish Boat Shoes to this list! We love how this neutral color makes it easy to pair with anything, and even more, we love that they have a foam midsole for shock absorption.

Skechers On-the-Go Flex

Skechers are widely-recommended by the thousands of podiatrists for their comfort and supportive technology at an affordable cost — and their stylish options! Skechers On-the-Go Flex boat shoes are no exception, and come in this gorgeous navy shade as well as a bright, summery coral. It has an air-cooled insole and comfy cushioning that will keep feet happy all day long.

Croft & Barrow Boat Shoes

If you’re looking for shoes similar to Sperry but want to save a little money, turn to Croft and Barrow Boat Shoes. They look nearly identical to Sperry’s classic boat shoe, but cost less than $50.

Sperry Lug Boat Shoe

Style-wise, Sperry Lug Boat Shoes may just be a winner. They are oh-so-fabulous and look luxurious, but still have the practicality and comfort of a traditional boat shoe. Its chunky platform heel also offers a bit of height sans the pain. To make them even cuter, this pair has just the slightest touch of pastel pink around the heel (but black, burgundy and navy options are available too if you’re not a fan of the brown and pink combo).

Eastland Marcella Loafer

While they are technically loafers, Eastland Marcella Loafer looks very similar to what’s considered boat shoes, and are just as comfortable. These boat shoes are right on trend with the metallic color option, as metallics are all the rage right now. Even better, they have a memory foam footbed.

Bed Stu Overboard Boat Shoes

We love how these boat shoes — Bed Stu Overboard Boat Shoes — are neutral enough to wear with just about any outfit, but are also still very fashion-forward with its unique touch of a dainty chain along the side of the shoe. The detail is subtle, but can make all the difference when trying to elevate your outfit.