As if we didn’t already know it, mens boat shoe fashions are in vogue once again this season — as confirmed in a recent article in the Toronto Star. They may be thought preppy by some, with strong nautical overtones, but the fact is that more and more men recognize the versatility of the deck shoe to complement all kinds of leisure and smart casual outfits.

From the classic look of the traditional Sperry Topsider or Sebago Docksides to the trendy canvas boat shoes now beloved by the skateboarding contingent, there’s a deck shoe for almost every style and taste — to the point where the yachting connotation in the name seems almost irrelevant.

But ironically, it’s the boating association that gives deck shoes for men a large part of their appeal — not because those who wear them necessarily aspire to a quayside on Cape Cod, but rather because of the sheer practicality of the nonslip sole and water resistant leather uppers that are the characteristic of the genre.

The white sole of boat shoes is a signature look that’s popular, particularly perhaps in America. But it’s not a given, and in Europe many styles have soles in a darker color which stand out less. In England, for example, deck shoes are a key element in many men’s wardrobes, and darker soled styles are sometimes preferred as having a less sporty appearance — particularly useful if you’re going to wear them with dress pants or other smart casual gear.

Nowadays, you only have to look through the boat shoe catalog of a big online retailer such as BoatShoes.com to see the huge variety of colors and patterns that are available. They work well as an alternative to sandals or loafers, with or without socks (although we strongly recommend the latter!) And it’s hard to think of another type of footwear that’s a stylish accompaniment to so many types of clothing and which appeals to such a wide range of different men.