Boat shoes are officially back and more badass than ever. You might remember the footwear of choice for Ivy leaguers and yacht club members as something of a tired trend, but David Coggins—acclaimed author of the new book The Optimist—begs to differ. He'll tell you that the heritage shoe is still just as smart and functional as it is timeless. An avid fisherman and exceptionally well-dressed outdoorsman, Coggins has crafted a special edition boat shoe with Maine-based Rancourt & Co., built to withstand the tests of nature all while looking equally sophisticated and easygoing.

David Coggins sporting his special edition boat shoes with Rancourt & Co.

David Coggins sporting his special edition boat shoes with Rancourt & Co.

David Coggins sporting his special edition boat shoes with Rancourt & Co.

We got a chance to slip into a pair and have to say, they're as good as the boat shoes you remember, only more comfortable and better looking. Cut from Horween's Carolina Brown Chromexcel leather and finished with a natural rubber sole from the French company Reltex, they're incredibly comfortable out of the box and require no break-in time. The waxed leather and waterproof laces keep even the worst conditions at bay, while the hand-sewn construction ensures a lifetime of wear. Perfect for warm days in the sun and built to take a beating, these new takes on the classic will easily tackle whatever adventures you throw at them.

Other boat shoes refitted for 2021 include rugged upgrades and fashion-forward additions. A lug-soled pair will look right at home with some technical pants and a windbreaker on the trail, or, for a classier look, lean into the nautical origins and match with seersucker or linens. No matter how you wear this seasonal staple, don't forget to go bold with the style.