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15 Best Online Games to With Your Boys On Sunday Nights

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Feeling bored of playing the same old games with your friends? Looking for something new to keep the squad hyped for your next weekend or Sunday session? We’ve all been there—same maps, same missions, same inside jokes that aren’t as funny as they used to be. That’s when it’s time to switch things up and bring some fresh energy into your gaming nights.

Trust me, there’s nothing better than playing with your squad time, and yes, I’m sure also solo sessions have their place, but nothing beats the chaos of jumping into a new world together, cracking jokes over voice chat, and pulling off moments you’ll still be laughing about weeks later. From sweat-soaked competitive lobbies to laid-back party games that let you relax, the best multiplayer titles offer something for every type of squad.

Now, if you’re ready to upgrade your routine and turn those stale nights into unforgettable sessions, you’ve come to the right place. Here are the 15 best online games to squad up on, guaranteed to bring the fun, trash talk, and maybe even a few rage quits back into your group’s gaming life.

Let’s get into it, shall we?

1. Fortnite

  • Genre: Battle Royale / Shooter
  • Release Date: July 21, 2017
  • Developer: Epic Games
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Mobile
  • Players: 1-4
  • Price: Free-to-play

Fortnite has grown far beyond its origins as just another battle royale. These days, it’s less of a single game and more of a universe where you can do almost anything with your squad. One night, you might drop in for a sweaty zero-build session; the next, you’re front row at an in-game concert, racing cars, or even jumping into a Lego survival adventure. It’s constantly changing, and that unpredictability is exactly what keeps players coming back.

Epic keeps things fresh with seasons that turn the game upside down every few months. Sure, the essentials—jumping out of the Battle Bus, looting, and trying to be the last squad standing—stay as addictive as ever, but Fortnite always finds a way to add some spice. Whether you’re building skyscraper-sized forts in seconds, testing out the latest mode like Ballistic, or just hiding in a bush while your teammates do all the work (we’ve all been there), it’s the kind of game that never runs out of stories to tell.

2. Apex Legends

  • Genre: Battle Royale / Hero Shooter
  • Release Date: February 4, 2019
  • Developer: Respawn Entertainment
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2
  • Players: 1-3
  • Price: Free-to-play

If Fortnite is the wild party where anything goes, Apex Legends is the sharp, tactical alternative where teamwork truly shines. It’s a game built around squads, and every legend you choose comes with unique abilities that can completely change the outcome of a fight. From dropping a shield wall to zipping across the map with a grappling hook, no two characters—or matches—ever play out the same way.

The fast-paced gunplay is where Apex really flexes its muscles. Movement feels smooth, firefights are fierce, and clutch moments happen around every corner. There’s nothing quite like pulling off a last-second revive or outsmarting an enemy squad with a perfectly timed ability. It’s chaotic in the best way, but never sloppy—you’ll always feel like your squad’s coordination can make or break the game.

For those Sunday sessions when the boys want something a bit more intense than casual party games, Apex is the ultimate test of communication, reflexes, and squad synergy. Win or lose, every match is an adrenaline rush that leaves you craving just one more drop.

3. Rocket League

  • Genre: Sports / Arcade (Car Soccer)
  • Release Date: July 7, 2015
  • Developer: Psyonix
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
  • Players: 1–8 players
  • Price: Free-to-play

Rocket League often refers to car soccer as taking the world’s most popular sport and turning it upside down—literally. Instead of cleats and grass, you’ve got rocket-powered cars flipping through the air, boosting across the field, and scoring goals that would make Messi jealous (quite literally). It’s fast, it’s crazy, and it’s the kind of game where no two matches ever unfold the same way.

If you’re brand new, it’s complete chaos—bumping into your mates, missing easy shots, and laughing at how silly it all is. If you keep at it, though, the skill ceiling is crazy high. Aerial dribbles, wall rides, trick passes—the game rewards creativity just as much as accuracy.

It’s also the perfect mood-setter for a squad night. Did we mention matches only last a few minutes? Making it perfect for quick pick-up games or for running it back until you get revenge. Whether you’re there to climb the ranked ladder or just mess around in custom modes, Rocket League always sparks those “did you just see that?!” moments that keep the whole crew hooked.

4. Marvel Rivals

  • Genre: Hero Shooter / Team-Based PvP
  • Developer: NetEase Games
  • Platforms: PC (PlayStation & Xbox versions expected)
  • Players: 6v6 battles
  • Price: Free-to-play

Marvel Rivals stormed onto the scene at the end of 2024 and haven’t slowed down in 2025. The game drops you into 6v6 battles with a roster of over 30 Marvel heroes and villains, each with unique powers and roles—Vanguard, Duelist, or Strategist. You’re limited to one of each hero on your team, so mastering a few backups is just as important as sticking with your main.

At first glance, people called it an Overwatch clone, but Marvel Rivals brings enough personality to carve out its own identity. For one, it’s completely third-person, which gives the fights a more cinematic, comic-book feel. Add in team-based combos—like pairing Groot’s protection with Rocket’s firepower or using Doctor Strange’s portals to pull off surprise attacks—and you’ve got a formula that feels chaotic in the best way possible.

The game launched with a large selection of maps, ranked and casual modes, plus regular events and cosmetic unlocks. Crossplay is available, but with a twist: you can mix platforms in casual modes, while ranked matches keep you on your own system. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with so many heroes staring back at you, but once your team finds a rhythm, every match feels like its own blockbuster battle scene.

And yes, it’s free-to-play—which means the in-game shop is filled with flashy costumes and cosmetics. The good news? You don’t need to spend a dime to enjoy the action with your crew. But I don’t blame you when you see Venoms rocking a new skin, and that itch of resisting not purchasing is a real endgame.

5. Mario Kart World

  • Genre: Kart Racing
  • Developer: Nintendo EPD
  • Platform: Nintendo Switch 2
  • Players: Races support up to 24 players simultaneously.
  • Price: USD $79.99

Ready to take the crew for a drive through chaos? Mario Kart World flips the script on the classic kart racer by dropping you into a massive, roaming world where you can zoom from one iconic course to the next, go off-road across terrains, and even alter day/night cycles and weather. It’s the kind of game where your team picks their favourite character—yes, even the quirky ones like a penguin or a cow—and then just goes wild racing, drifting, boosting, and pulling off crazy stunts while laughing about someone’s epic crash.

What makes it such a strong choice for your next “boys’ session” is that it combines pure arcade fun with a big-group vibe: up to 24 players means it’s not just you and two friends—it’s your whole squad plus chaos and one of our favourites from Nintendo Switch, whether it’s burning rubber in the “Knockout Tour” elimination mode or just roaming around Free Roam with the boys hunting collectibles or taking funny photos mid-drift. It’s built for good times and goofy stories. If your usual gaming pick feels like it’s gone flat, this is a fresh pit-stop you’ll want to charge into.

6. Tekken 8

  • Genre: Fighting Game
  • Developer: Bandai Namco Studios & Arika
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows PC
  • Players: 1-on-1 fights (online multiplayer supported)
  • Price: uSD $59.99

Now if you’re looking for a dramatic fight, look no further than Tekken 8, which marks a new era for the franchise — not just visually, but socially. For the first time ever, the series introduced cross-platform play, allowing PlayStation, Xbox, and PC fighters to throw hands without barriers. The eighth entry feels like a perfect balance of classic Tekken chaos and modern fighting game design, featuring a stacked roster of characters you can take through an explosive story mode or jump straight into online battles against players from around the world.

Tekken 8 keeps things light with fun side modes like Tekken Ball, where you’re still technically fighting, but with a beach ball instead of your fists. Even after its first year, the game refuses to slow down—Season 2 introduced a new fighter, sweeping balance changes, and buffs that completely reshaped how certain characters play.

7. The Finals

  • Genre: First-Person Shooter
  • Developer: Embark Studios
  • Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
  • Players: 3-player teams (up to 12 players per match)
  • Price: Free-to-play

The Finals arrived with a bang and quickly became one of the most exciting FPS experiences in years. Imagine a fast-paced game show where you and your two teammates compete to grab cash, destroy buildings, and outthink rival teams—all in fully destructible arenas. Every wall, floor, and staircase can fall apart under gunfire or explosives, forcing teams to adapt on the fly. It’s chaotic, unpredictable, and incredibly satisfying when your strategy pays off.

Each class—Light, Medium, or Heavy—has unique loadouts and play styles, allowing your team to blend stealthy flanks with brute force or defensive control. The momentum-based movement, gadgets, and vertical maps make every match feel cinematic, especially when someone sends half the arena tumbling with a well-placed RPG.

Since its debut, The Finals has continued to evolve with new maps, limited-time modes, and steady balance updates that keep things competitive. It’s the kind of game where every victory feels earned and every loss turns into “one more round.” If your squad’s looking for pure chaos with a tactical edge, this is the one that’ll have everyone yelling in voice chat for hours.

8. Split Fictions

  • Genre: Action-Adventure / Platform (Co-op Only)
  • Developer: Hazelight Studios
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC (Windows), Nintendo Switch 2
  • Players: 2
  • Price: USD $49.99

If your squad is looking for something a bit different—less “shoot & loot” and more “laugh & collaborate”—Split Fiction offers a perfect twist. You two jump into the roles of writers Mio and Zoe, trapped within their own imaginary worlds (one sci-fi, one fantasy) and forced to collaborate if they ever want to escape. The game throws you into one minute of dragon-riding, then the next dodging hover cars in a neon city—you never know what strange, wild scene is coming next.

The best part here is how well it works as a duo. One purchase, and a friend can join via the Friend’s Pass; full cross-play across platforms means you and your buddy can team up no matter what console each of you uses. While the game’s co-op design is tight and purposeful, it still offers enough different mechanics and visual flair that your Sunday session won’t feel like the same old routine. And when you pull off that perfectly timed team jump or solve a puzzle together? That’s the kind of moment your crew will remember next week.

9. Black Ops 6 & Warzone

  • Genre: First-Person Shooter
  • Developer: Treyarch & Raven Software (Published by Activision)
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
  • Players: Up to 150 players (Warzone) / 1–6 players (Black Ops 6 modes)
  • Price: USD $69.99

Call of Duty is basically the weekly gathering spot for gamers worldwide. With Black Ops 6 and Warzone at the forefront, the series feels more alive—or more connected than ever. Both titles support full cross-platform matchmaking, making it simpler than ever to team up with friends regardless of the system they use. If you’re on console and want to avoid PC lobbies (and the occasional cheater), you can now turn off cross-play entirely—a new feature that’s been a significant win for console players.

Cross-play is incredibly simple. All you need is your friend’s Activision ID, a quick add through the social menu, and you’re ready to join a match together. It’s smooth, adaptable, and remains one of the top features Call of Duty has introduced since Modern Warfare (2019) first brought it in.

Gameplay-wise, Black Ops 6 offers that sleek espionage-heavy campaign and the new Omni-Movement System, allowing you to dive, sprint, and aim in any direction. Meanwhile, Warzone remains the ideal arena for large-scale, chaotic fun—150 players dropping in, looting, and shouting through comms as the circle shrinks. Whether you’re sweating through ranked matches or just having fun with the squad, this duo has something for everyone.

10. Monster Hunter Wilds

  • Genre: Action Role-Playing Game
  • Developer: Capcom
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows PC
  • Players: 1-4
  • Price: USD $69.99

Capcom’s Monster Hunter Wilds takes everything players loved about World and cranks the scale up even higher. You take on the role of a professional Hunter—a sword-swinging, bow-wielding protector for hire—charged with maintaining peace between civilisation and the giant creatures that inhabit the untamed wilds. Some hunts are quick cleanups, while others feel like confronting a natural disaster. Each encounter tells its own story, and every victory feels earned through grit, teamwork, and a touch of luck.

This time, the world feels more alive than ever. You’re moving through vast open areas that change with the weather, turning familiar hunting grounds into new challenges on the spot. While you can go solo, Wilds shines brightest when playing with friends—calling out strategies mid-fight, setting traps, or running for safety when a monster suddenly decides it’s had enough. Co-op has been made easier to set up than before, though it still has that slightly clunky Monster Hunter charm during matchmaking.

The smartest way to experience it? Team up for story missions when you can, then go on free hunts to enjoy the scenery and gather rare loot. Monster Hunter Wilds isn’t just a sequel—it’s a big, evolving adventure built for squads who love the thrill of the hunt.

11. Returnal

  • Genre: Third-Person Shooter / Roguelike
  • Developer: Housemarque
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Windows PC
  • Players: 1–2
  • Price: USD $69.99

Few games evoke the feeling of mystery and tension quite like this PS5 exclusive from Housemarque. At its core, it’s a compelling sci-fi story following astronaut Selene Vassos, stranded on the hostile planet Atropos and caught in a relentless time loop. Each death resets the world, rebuilding alien landscapes and spawning new threats, turning every run into an experience of discovery, chaos, and déjà vu. The story unfolds gradually, with each loop revealing more about Selene’s haunting past and the planet’s eerie secrets.

What makes it even better is that it’s no longer a solo affair. Thanks to the Ascension update, two players can now explore Atropos together online. The addition of co-op transforms the experience from a lonely fight for survival into a shared odyssey filled with clutch revives, synchronized dodges, and shared panic when the sky lights up with enemy fire. It’s brutal, beautiful, and unbelievably satisfying once you and your partner finally conquer the loop.

With its slick gameplay, cinematic storytelling, and mind-bending world design, Returnal is the ideal challenge for duos who thrive on intensity and enjoy solving mysteries.

12. RuneScope: Dragonwilds

  • Genre: Fantasy Survival – Crafting
  • Developer: Jagex Ltd
  • Platforms: PC (Windows)
  • Players: 1–4
  • Price: USD $29.99

Set on the newly discovered continent of Ashenfall, RuneScape: Dragonwilds places you and your team at the heart of Gielinor’s most dangerous frontier. The landscape is breathtaking, but every part of it seems to push you out. From savage wildlife to ancient powers tied to the Dragon Queen, survival isn’t just about building a base — it’s about earning your place in a world that actively fights against you.

You’ll chop, cook, craft, and fight to carve out a home in this hostile wilderness, and every skill you develop opens new ways to survive. It’s a familiar formula done right, blending nostalgia from RuneScape’s long history with new, magical twists that keep things exciting. Levelling up your abilities feels truly rewarding—especially when you start experimenting with rune-infused powers like Axtral Projection, which lets you send your enchanted axe spinning through the air to clear forests in seconds.

It’s wild, a bit ridiculous, and exactly the kind of moment that makes this survival game shine. Even in Early Access, Dragonwilds already feels alive—a tough, unpredictable playground where teamwork, creativity, and a touch of mischief go a long way.

13. Destiny 2

  • Genre: Online Shooter / Action RPG
  • Developer: Bungie
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows PC
  • Players: Up to 6-player fireteams (PvE & PvP modes)
  • Price: Free-to-play

Seven years on, Destiny 2 has become one of the biggest live-service games worldwide. Bungie has created a universe that keeps expanding—new storylines, seasonal events, and world updates encourage Guardians to return week after week. One of the best features is full cross-platform play, so regardless of which system your friends use, you can jump into the action together. It’s one of those rare multiplayer experiences that genuinely feels connected, from PlayStation to PC.

There’s a bit of everything here, but Destiny 2’s core is in its PvE content. Raids, dungeons, and strikes require communication, precision, and a squad that stays calm under pressure. The sense of achievement when you finally defeat a boss that’s wiped out your team half a dozen times? Unmatched. PvP enthusiasts can enjoy Crucible or Gambit, but it’s those long, strategic co-op sessions that define the experience. Oh, did we mention that it’s free to play? It’s one of the easiest ways to get your friends hooked for your next gaming night.

14. NBA 2K24

  • Genre: Sports / Basketball Simulation
  • Developer: Visual Concepts
  • Publisher: 2K Games
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch
  • Players: 1–4
  • Price: USD $29.99

Bruh, wanna hit some 2K? Yeah, this year’s edition marks 25 years of the 2K series with the new ProPLAY technology, which turns real NBA footage directly into gameplay animations — meaning your favourite players move, shoot, and react more realistically than ever. Whether you’re running pickup games in The City, building your dream roster in MyTEAM, or taking your custom player through MyCAREER, the game thrives on teamwork and competition.

It’s also fully cross-platform, allowing PlayStation and Xbox players to finally compete or team up — a long-awaited feature that’s made multiplayer smoother and much more accessible. Sure, you’ll still encounter the occasional player hogging the ball, but when your team finds its rhythm — passing, dunking, and locking down on defence and those high-energy moments where friendship, rivalry, and skill collide in the perfect highlight reel.

15. EA Sports FC26

  • Genre: Sports / Football Simulation
  • Developer: EA Vancouver & EA Romania
  • Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch
  • Players: 1–22 (online multiplayer, Ultimate Team, Clubs, Career Mode)
  • Price: USD $69.99

Let’s not forget our football fans out there, and this one is for you guys with EA’s flagship football series that continues to dominate the pitch. EA Sports FC 26 keeps the momentum going with sharper visuals, improved player physics, and a renewed focus on realistic movement that makes every touch and tackle feel alive. The gameplay feels smoother, faster, and more reactive than before, giving players the freedom to express themselves with precision passing, fluid dribbling, and some truly satisfying goals. It’s the kind of game where one clutch volley or last-minute save can change the entire vibe of a Sunday session.

Cross-play remains one of the biggest highlights, enabling PlayStation, Xbox, and PC players to team up or compete against each other without restrictions. For squads, the Clubs mode truly kicks off—the cheer and chaos are unmatched as you and your friends craft a team from the ground up, design your jackets, and climb through divisions like a genuine football club. The camaraderie, chaos, and occasional yelling over missed penalties make it one of the top multiplayer experiences out there.

Beyond Clubs, there’s still plenty to explore. Ultimate Team keeps its addictive grind alive with new chemistry systems and player cards, while Career Mode allows you to take control of your favourite club or craft your own football story from scratch. Despite the yearly debates about micro transactions and balance tweaks, there’s no denying that EA Sports FC 26 remains the top football experience to share with your friends—intense, unpredictable, and endlessly repayable.

Why Trust Our List?

Every title on this list has been part of our own gaming nights with friends and coworkers, where things usually start calm and end in complete mayhem, laughter, and friendly trash talk. These are the games that light up the group chat, keep everyone online longer than planned, and bring that spark of competition and camaraderie that makes multiplayer gaming what it is. We know which titles genuinely deliver the energy — the ones that make you cheer after a clutch win, yell after a bad loss, or laugh until your mic cuts out. We test new releases, track updates, and monitor popular games to recommend the best online squad games. We’ve experienced those all-nighters, played in the best lobbies, and know what creates hype for unforgettable sessions.

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Boat Shoes Are Having Their Big Spotlight Moment This Summer

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Our team of editors and experts thoughtfully chooses each product. If you decide to buy through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more. Want to know how we test products? Click here for more details.

Summer always brings a certain vibe, doesn’t it? The days feel lighter, wardrobes get simpler, and suddenly we’re all reaching for pieces that slip on easily but still look sharp. And right now, no shoe captures that feeling better than the boat shoe. It’s the kind of footwear that’s been around forever, tucked away in closets, waiting patiently for its moment—and this summer, it’s finally making its mark.

You probably remember boat shoes from somewhere: perhaps your dad wore them religiously on family holidays, or maybe they were the unofficial uniform around half your college campus. For some, they are timeless; for others, they felt too stiff, too “prep,” or too stuck in the past. But here’s the thing—classics never really go away. They just sit back until fashion swings back in their favour.

And that’s exactly what’s happening now. The boat shoe is making a big comeback, and not in the same old, cookie-cutter style. Designers have given them a modern refresh—think bolder colours, softer materials, and sleeker shapes that look just as good on city streets as by the water. Comfortable, versatile, and simply cool, boat shoes are stepping into the spotlight this summer, and honestly, it’s about time.

Paul Sperry Where It All Began | Image: SPERRY

What Makes Boat Shoes More Than Just a Preppy Classic

The boat shoe’s story starts in the 1930s with a sailor named Paul Sperry. One day out on the water, frustrated with slipping around on his boat, he spotted something unusual—his dog, Prince, running across icy ground without a problem. Curious, he studied the paw pads and noticed the grooves that gave them grip. That lightbulb moment led him to carve similar siped grooves into a rubber sole, and when he paired it with a moccasin-style leather upper, the very first boat shoe was born. Functional, yes, but stylish enough to catch on far beyond the docks.

What’s fascinating is that the design wasn’t entirely new. The leather slip-on construction with laced eyelets had roots in the camp moccasins worn by Native Americans for centuries. They’d perfected the idea of durable, practical footwear long before Sperry came along. In a way, the boat shoe is part invention, part reinvention—a merging of Indigenous tradition with a new kind of modern utility.

Our Story Continues | Image: SPERRY

By the mid-20th century, boat shoes had sailed off the decks and into everyday American wardrobes. They weren’t just practical anymore; they carried a sense of coastal ease, a slice of that seaside lifestyle people wanted to tap into. Worn with chinos, shorts, or even lightweight suiting, they became shorthand for Americana—effortless, comfortable, and just a little bit aspirational.

The ’80s took things to a whole new level. Boat shoes exploded in popularity, showing up on college campuses, at summer barbecues, and practically everywhere along the East Coast. For a time, they weren’t just a shoe, they were a cultural marker. Slip them on and you instantly looked like you belonged in a Ralph Lauren ad. But as is often the case, overexposure sparked backlash.

By the ’90s and 2000s, the very things that once made boat shoes cool became their downfall. They were written off as too preppy, too uniform, too tied to a narrow idea of style. “Frat shoes,” some called them. Fashion moved on, leaving boat shoes to linger quietly in closets, worn mostly out of habit rather than trend. But classics have a way of hanging on, and even at their lowest point, the boat shoe never fully disappeared—it was just waiting for the tide to turn.

R.M.WILLIAMSIslet Leather Boat Shoes | Image: Mr. Porter

What Makes Up a Boat Shoe?

When you think of boat shoes, it’s easy to picture the overall look: leather uppers, laces, and those signature rubber soles. But what actually makes them unique compared to other casual shoes? A few key details set them apart, blending practicality with timeless style. Here’s a breakdown of the defining characteristics that give boat shoes their unmistakable identity.

  • Moccasin Toe Construction – The stitched moccasin-style toe is what gives boat shoes their classic shape. Unlike stiff dress shoes, this design allows the upper to bend and move with you, making them much more comfortable. It also adds a handcrafted touch, paying homage to the craftsmanship that has kept the style in favour for nearly a century.
  • 360-Degree Lacing System – Boat shoes have a rawhide lace that weaves all the way around the collar, not just across the front. This smart design allows you to adjust the fit from every angle, providing a snug wrap around the heel as well as the instep. Originally made for sailors needing extra security on deck, today it’s a feature that combines function with style.
  • Derby Construction – With its open lacing style, the derby setup makes boat shoes very easy to slip on and off. It maintains a casual vibe while still providing structure, striking a balance between a loafer and a sneaker look.
  • Thick Leather Laces – The chunky rawhide laces are more than just a style choice—they’re designed to withstand saltwater, sun, and constant use without snapping or fraying. Even now, they remain a defining feature, adding rugged character while also paying homage to the shoe’s nautical roots.
  • Special Soles – One of the most significant innovations of the boat shoe is its sole. Non-marking rubber, cut with siped grooves, was designed to grip wet decks without scuffing the surface. That exact grip works just as well on modern pavements, making them practical both by the water and in the city.
  • Heel Stitching – The reinforced stitching on the heel not only adds strength but also helps the shoe keep its structure over time. Since boat shoes are often worn without socks and in warmer weather, this extra durability allows them to withstand years of heavy use while maintaining their shape.
  • Unlined Leather Uppers – Unlike most shoes, boat shoes are often unlined, which keeps them soft, breathable, and lightweight. The leather moulds to the shape of your foot with wear, creating a personalised fit that only gets better over time. It’s one of the reasons why, once broken in, a good pair of boat shoes can feel like second skin.

Combine all these details, and you have more than just a casual slip-on — you’ve got a shoe designed with purpose and style. Every stitch, sole, and lace has a function while also adding to the distinctive character of the boat shoe. This blend of practicality and classic design explains why they’ve lasted nearly a century and why they’re making their way back into the spotlight today.

King Charles III Wearing Boat Shoes In Tetbury, U.K. | Image: Getty Images

Where To Wear Them?

The beauty of boat shoes in 2025 lies in how easily they suit everyday life. Think rooftop bars, weekend brunches, casual Fridays at the office—they offer just enough sophistication to appear intentional without feeling excessive. Even King Charles III has been seen wearing them while out in Tetbury, U.K., showing that boat shoes aren’t just for seaside holidays anymore. If they’re good enough for royalty on a country walk, they can work nearly anywhere.

Summer is when they really shine. Pair them with linen shorts for a beachside dinner, or match them with rolled-up chinos for an afternoon in the city—they bridge the tricky gap between sneakers and loafers better than most shoes. And if you’re travelling, they’re lightweight in your bag, easy to slip on at the airport, and versatile enough for sightseeing by day and dinners by night. Wherever summer takes you, boat shoes are more than ready to join the journey.

MORJAS Full-Grain Leather Boat Shoes | Images: Mr. Porter

How To Make Boat Shoes Work for You?

What makes boat shoes such a smart choice this summer is how smoothly they’ve adapted to modern style. Once associated with khaki shorts and polo shirts, they’ve moved beyond that uniform and now complement a much broader wardrobe. Slip them on with tailored shorts and a linen shirt for a classic summer look, or roll up your chinos and pair them with a lightweight Oxford for a more polished appearance. They add refinement without being formal, which is exactly what summer dressing calls for.

Colour is important in keeping the look fresh. The traditional brown leather versions will always be classics, but today’s boat shoes come in shades like olive, burgundy, navy, and even clean white. These bolder tones allow you to experiment and add personality to outfits that might otherwise feel basic. Whether you’re dressing up for dinner or keeping it relaxed for the weekend, there’s a boat shoe variation that suits the vibe.

Saman Amel City Moc Full-Grain Leather Boat Shoes | Image: Saman Amel

Designers have also stepped up to reimagine the silhouette for a new generation. From buttery-soft leathers to eco-conscious materials and hybrid designs that flirt with sneaker-like comfort, the boat shoe has evolved far beyond its preppy stereotype. These thoughtful updates make them feel contemporary and versatile again, shedding the baggage of the past while retaining the craftsmanship that originally made them iconic.

At the end of the day, the boat shoe’s comeback isn’t just about nostalgia — it’s about demonstrating its durability. Nearly a century after Paul Sperry’s original design, the boat shoe has again established itself as a favorite for men who prioritize comfort, style, and versatility. This summer, they’re not just making a return; they’re reminding us why they became an icon initially. Slip into a pair, and you’ll see how effortlessly they can work for you.

Saman Amel City Moc Full-Grain Leather Boat Shoes | Image: Mr. Porter

Boat Shoes As An Investment Piece

What distinguishes boat shoes from trendy footwear is their longevity. Made with durable moccasin stitching, thick leather laces, and sturdy rubber soles, a high-quality pair isn’t just for one summer—it’s built to last for years. The more you wear them, the better they become, shaping to your foot and gaining that worn-in character that makes them uniquely yours. Most quality pairs typically start around CAD $150, but considering how long they last, that price quickly proves to be money well spent.

That’s what makes them such a smart investment. Unlike sneakers that wear out quickly or cheap loafers that lose their shape, boat shoes age gracefully and remain versatile across many occasions. From vacations to casual Fridays, city streets to seaside getaways, they’re the pair you’ll keep returning to. When you consider cost per wear, boat shoes more than justify their place in your wardrobe—showing they’re not just a trend, but reclaiming their role as a timeless staple.

General FAQ’s

Can You Wear Boat Shoes With Socks?

Traditionally, boat shoes are worn without visible socks to maintain a clean, relaxed look. If you prefer socks for comfort, choose no-show or invisible socks—this way, you get the best of both worlds.

Are Boat Shoes Only For Summer?

Not at all. While they look great in warm weather with shorts and linen, modern versions in suede or darker leather can be worn into spring and autumn. They’re versatile enough to be worn almost year-round, depending on how you style them.

How Do You Break In Boat Shoes?

Boat shoes may feel stiff initially, but the unlined leather softens quickly. Wear them around the house with thin socks for a few days, and you’ll notice they start shaping to your feet. Some people even lightly condition the leather to speed up the process.

What Outfits Work Best with Boat Shoes?

Boat shoes excel in smart-casual settings. Imagine tailored shorts with a linen shirt for summer evenings, chinos with a polo for weekend brunch, or even slim jeans with a lightweight blazer when aiming for a sharper look. They’re versatile enough to dress up or down, but steer clear of pairing them with formal suits—they’re designed for relaxed sophistication, not boardroom meetings.

How Do You Care For Boat Shoes?

Boat shoes are built to last, but a little maintenance makes a difference. Wipe them down with a damp cloth after wearing, condition the leather every few months to keep it supple, and allow them to air dry naturally if they get wet. Keep them away from direct heat—that can warp the leather. With proper care, an quality pair can easily last for years.

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