From Pan Am to private aviation, pilots have flown not only with exceptional speed and service but with timeless style. You know the look: tailored suits, epaulets, caps, and black dress shoes.
While pilots spend thousands of hours in flight and moving from the parking lot to the terminal, their knees, lower backs, and feet aren’t often being supported as they should be.
Today, aviation dress codes aren’t as cookie-cutter as they were in decades past. What does this mean for you and thousands of sore pilots around the world? You can toss out that worn-down pair of dress shoes for a stylish and comfortable alternative. Let’s explore what makes a shoe the right fit for a pilot’s wardrobe.
Characteristics of the Best Shoes for Pilots
The best shoes for pilots should have these seven attributes:
- Comfort
- Durability
- Professionalism
- Non-metal construction (TSA compliance)
- Non-pointed toe box
- Traction control
- Slip-resistance
The FAA has stressed the importance of avoiding physical fatigue before operating an aircraft. Even physically active pilots aren’t immune to the negative effects of uncomfortable shoes on their backs, knees, and feet.
Any comfortable and long-lasting shoe will need to fit the airline’s dress code. But more often than not, dress codes offer some leeway for each pilot’s preference. Metal-free shoes are best for navigating swiftly through security checkpoints. That’s why Amberjack’s shoes are TSA-compliant and adhere to uniform guidelines.
Additionally, you’ll need both a grippy outsole to operate rudder pedals and complete preflight checks in harsh weather conditions as well as a supportive insole to keep you comfortable in all areas of the job—from flying to long walks commuting through airports. Rest assured that Amberjack’s shoes have non-FOD carrying tread and are slip-resistant, which will help in those icy conditions.
What else makes Amberjack the superior choice for pilots? A non-pointed toe box. Our shoes feature a wider toe box, which pilots find beneficial compared to more pointed shoes that don’t work as well when actuating rudder pedals and brakes. A wider toe box will also keep your feet from feeling cramped together.
With that in mind, here are the four best shoes for pilots.
#1. The Original in Obsidian
Don’t let your eyes deceive you. This shoe is far from traditional.
At Amberjack, we innovated the design and materials used for a common dress shoe to create The Original. The pitch-black upper is made with A-grade, full-grain leather from a world-class tannery. Those who have owned a pair of full-grain leather shoes know a single pair can last decades with the proper care.
The Original is equipped with a dual-function outsole that offers athletic rigidity while remaining flexible and grippy. With its heat-activated arch support, The Original will make you feel comfortable and supported all day long. Additionally, they are TSA compliant and adhere to all uniform guidelines.
In this classic black color, The Original is one of the best shoes for pilots who prefer a more traditional style. But if black isn’t your style, you can find a color you love.
What Pilots Are Saying:
"I’m an airline pilot looking for comfort and quality! I purchased another pair of Amberjacks since the first pair were so comfortable and look great! No other pair of black dress shoes feel as comfortable as these - almost like I’m wearing sneakers!! And the cherry on top—they don’t set off the security metal detectors!! You’ve earned a lifelong customer here!!"
- Marc M
#2. The Chelsea in Obsidian
The Chelsea is a modern boot that is as stylish as it is practical. You can dress it up or down depending on your needs. It looks good with jeans, dress pants, or chinos. The no-lace design makes it easy to remove the boots at security or your hotel after a long-haul flight.
We designed The Chelsea with premium A-grade hides from American steer. Plus, we created a thermo-moldable insole and mechanically designed outsole that protect your feet from fatigue and pain. The Obsidian color is a perfect way to match or stand out with your uniform or everyday wear.
For the level of quality and innovation in The Chelsea, we’ve managed to offer it at an unbeatable price.
What Pilots Are Saying:
"I've never worn dress boots before, but plenty of my professional pilot acquaintances do and I thought I would give these 10.5's a try. They are very comfortable right out of the box with soft leather and sole that flexes easily, and the fit was spot on to my usual 10.5. My wife and daughter thought they looked very stylish with my uniform. haha Hopefully they are just as sturdy as they look good, but thats yet to be seen.
Customer service is awesome! When I initially ordered the 10.5 my emailed receipt came back with the default size 7. I immediately contacted customer service and they fixed the order and shipping right then and there."
- Greg C
#3. The Loafer in Obsidian
Not every pilot needs a traditional shoe or boot for their flights. Introducing The Loafer.
Loafers aren’t just for lounging anymore: these shoes provide unparalleled comfort without compromising shoe stability. Whether you’re pairing The Loafer in Obsidian with black suit pants or casual shorts, your look will be exactly as you intend. The Loafer is the perfect fit for a Saturday joy flight.
What Pilots Are Saying:
"My husband is an airline pilot so he needs nice, professional-looking shoes that are also comfortable since he walks all around airports when he’s not flying the plane. These fit the bill. They are supportive and comfortable. Thanks!"
- Melanie M
#4. The Cap-Toe in Obsidian
Our next ideal dress shoe for pilots features a fashionable seam across the toe box. This is the Cap-Toe in Obsidian.
The Cap-Toe is your go-to if you are looking to stand out and elevate your style while maintaining dress code compliance. Our laser-perforated sheepskin lining will also help keep your feet nice and cool during long shifts.
What Pilots Are Saying:
"I’m an airline pilot, and I generally have found that I can find comfortable work shoes, but I also noticed that if I have to stand a lot in my work shoes, my back begins to hurt. These shoes are extremely comfortable and light. I love how they appear to have a raised heel, but don’t actually have an abrupt heel raise, which is what I credit the back pain from other shoes to. These are so comfortable that I wear them out and about on layovers as opposed to my tennis shoes because my feet and back no longer need a break from my work shoes. It is nice to look more put together when I am on layovers and these shoes are incredibly comfortable. I also like that the sole has more grip than traditional dress shoes. I will be buying these for the rest of my career. Great product!"
- Matt M
Shop The Cap-Toe Obsidian#5. The Slip-On in Obsidian
Lastly, we bring you The Slip-On: the epitome of stylish convenience for today's pilot. Crafted with our standard precision and elegance, these slip-on dress shoes offer a seamless blend of sophistication and functionality.
Our premium full-grain leather ensures durability and the absence of laces allows for easy on and off, ideal for swift transitions between flights or security checks.
Beneath the surface, The Slip-On features a thermo-moldable insole for personalized comfort and support, while the slip-resistant outsole provides stability in various conditions. With TSA-compliant non-metal construction, these shoes are designed to meet the demands of modern aviation.
What Pilots Are Saying:
"I purchased this shoe a couple years ago and they have held up great. I have put a lot of miles on these as I do a lot of walking for work (pilot) and they are very comfortable. I like how easy they are to slip on/off and look great. Also had an issue when first ordering and customer support helped me sort it out and did a fantastic job. Will make a longtime customer."
- Alex
Straighten Up and Fly Right with Amberjack
At Amberjack, we noticed how casual-dress shoes were becoming more outdated as technology and work environments advanced. Using our combined experience in the footwear industry and partnering with sustainable suppliers, we created the footwear of the future.
Come learn more about our company and find the best shoes for pilots today!
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