Best pair of Summer shoes: Penny Loafers vs Bucks vs Boat Shoes

[Jkhan82]

Hey guys,

Looking to grab a pair of summer shoes, can't decide which one to pick up. I want a pair of penny loafers, but I want to save up for a more higher quality one—so its taking some time.

I see the j.crew and brooks brother classic bucks are looking sweet.

But the boat shoes look very slick as well.

I can't decide, what do you guys favor?

Its just for casual hang outs or casual work day shoes.

Thanks in advance!

 

[rwaldron]

1. Save up money for the loafers.
2. This leaves you to choose between Bucs and Boat shoes, which is a question of function rather than one of style. Boat shoes are designed to be worn sockless with shorts, and are especially helpfully in slippery environments (nautical locations, outdoors with the possibility of rain (i.e. the south during the summer), bars with slippery floors after you've reduced your ability to maintain sure footing as easily). Bucs, can be worn sockless with shorts, but I think it looks funny, and find them better with long pants or even a suit.

Thus the question is, are you looking for something to wear to BBQ's, Bars, Boats; or are you looking for something to wear to dinner and weddings?

 

[Jkhan82]



Thus the question is, are you looking for something to wear to BBQ's, Bars, Boats; or are you looking for something to wear to dinner and weddings?

Just wear on casual fridays to work, grad school classes and some local errands during the weekends.

Even tho boat shoes have a purpose, I've seen casual new yorks walking around with'em

 

[bourbonbasted]

Since you seem to be on a bit of a budget just get a pair of Top-Siders and call it a day. No need to invest heavily in boat shoes and Sperry makes a pair that wear and age very well. Plus they're far more versatile than bucks.

Have more of a concern for quality and spending when it comes to penny loafers. Look for Blake construction and I'd go with shell cordovan, but that's just me.

 

[jlewis]

Boat shoes. They provide a very classic casual look and go well with shorts. I have 3 pairs of Sperry Top Siders that have been serving me well for about a year. They're very durable and can be cleaned easily if they get wet or dirty.

 

[minervau]

I'd actually vote for penny loafers for versatility. Boat shoes are too casual to be worn with chinos and blazer, but penny loafers can go with shorts and a polo.

 

[MyOtherLife]

You know your lifestyle better than anyone so let the need dictate the choice. Most of us here have one pair of each and would encourage you to do the same.

 

[Quadcammer]

I go for driving mocassins as opposed to your choices.

Loafers are more formal, bucs are more spring/fall, and I just don't like boat shoes.

 

[Gus]

I would go for the bucks. I have a pair and everyone comments on them. They are perfect for just hanging, walking around and can actually be casual dress if needed (I've worn mine with a cotton suit). In addition, the red sole ones are very comfortable. That is the #1 reason I wear them.

Boat shoes are good if you are going to be active outdoors and hanging. Not all of them are comfortable for walking any distance. I don't know what you do for work but they can't be used for casual dress, just casual.

Loafers are nice but I would rather walk around a city or travel in my bucks. However, most loafers will be good for year-round wear.

I would watch the sales and perhaps you can pick up two of the three on sale and have the greatest versatility.

 

[Fraiche]

Can someone post a picture of "bucks"?

 

[Gdot]

Google Image Search = Stupid Question Prevention Tool

 

[Fraiche]

My bad, I thought bucks were short for something else, hence the question. Thanks for the pic though.

 

[Gdot]

UR Welcome - sorry if I was snarky. It was just too easy!

 

[jammyo40]

I find boat shoes or mocs more versatile than bucks.

 

[rwaldron]

I go for driving mocassins as opposed to your choices.
Loafers are more formal, bucs are more spring/fall, and I just don't like boat shoes.

I had a nice long conversation with a shoes salesman (I believe it may have been at Perlis, but I may be mistaken on that one), where I learned that driving shoes are for driving and nothing else. Apparently, the upper wraps around to the bottom and it is not designed to come into frequent contact with materials like concrete or rocks. Essentially walking damages them. Furthermore, since the bottom is typically the same piece of leather as the upper, repairing these shoes is rarely possible. The short of it: Driving shoes are meant to be kept in the car. Put them on when you get in, take them off when you get out. Because of this, I opted instead for a simple pair of bit loafers.