Boat Shoes: Still Trendy Or Sinking Fast?

Boat shoes have been a staple in the world of footwear for almost a century. Originally designed for sailors and boaters to prevent slipping on boat decks, they have since become a classic piece of casual footwear for men and women. The shoe's unique design and construction make it ideal for boat decks and summer months. The shoe's most distinct features include the moccasin-style toe, 360-degree lacing system, and the iconic white, non-marking soles that provide exceptional grip on wet and slippery surfaces.

While boat shoes were initially designed for nautical activities, they have become a versatile shoe that can be worn in various settings. They can easily replace sneakers and loafers and are perfect for everyday wear. When it comes to styling, it is best to avoid structured jackets and focus on soft, unstructured sports coats and odd jackets. As for trousers, boat shoes should never be lighter in color than your pants, and it is recommended to pair them with denim, shorts, or trousers in neutral colors.

While boat shoes can be worn with or without socks, it is generally advised to avoid visible socks as they can ruin the look. No-show or ankle socks are a good option to maintain hygiene and add a layer of comfort while keeping the look polished. Overall, boat shoes are a great addition to any wardrobe, offering both style and functionality.

Boat shoes: a fashion statement or a functional shoe?

Boat shoes are a type of footwear that has evolved from being purely work/utility wear to a fashion staple. They are now in ever-increasing demand by everyone who wants to stay comfortable and stylish in relaxed settings.

History of Boat Shoes:

The boat shoe was designed by Paul Sperry in the early 1930s. Before the advent of the modern boat shoe, sailors and boatmen struggled to maintain a firm foothold on slippery boat decks. Sperry's dog, a cocker spaniel named Prince, inspired him to create a shoe with better traction. He noticed that the natural cracks and grooves on Prince's paws formed a herringbone-like pattern that gave him grip while running across ice. Sperry then cut similar patterns on the soles of his shoes, which improved his grip while at sea. In 1935, he introduced the Sperry Top-Sider shoe with mid-to dark-brown leather uppers and a white rubber sole, with the bottoms cut in a trademark herringbone pattern. After this final modification, his shoes gained momentum and became a trend among sailors and boaters.

Boat Shoes: Fashion Statement or Functional Shoe?

Boat shoes are designed with specific features that enhance their functionality and performance on boats, such as non-marking rubber soles, exceptional grip and traction on wet surfaces, quick drainage systems, and durable materials. They are typically made from leather or canvas, which can withstand exposure to water, salt, and other elements. The lacing design includes leather laces that can be tightened for a secure fit or loosened for a more relaxed feel, preventing the shoes from slipping off in rough waters.

At the same time, boat shoes have become a classic casual shoe trend in the fashion world, adopted by people from all walks of life. They are known for their comfortable fit and versatile style, effortlessly transitioning from the deck to the shore. Boat shoes are commonly used by boaters and non-boaters alike, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Styling Boat Shoes:

When it comes to styling, boat shoes should be worn in a way that complements their casual and relaxed nature. They can easily replace sneakers and loafers in everyday wear but should not be seen as a replacement for more formal styles like Oxfords. Soft, unstructured sports coats, odd jackets, and overshirts are ideal pairing partners for boat shoes, emphasizing their relaxed aesthetic. For bottoms, boat shoes go well with denim, shorts, and trousers in various colors and styles, such as Nantucket Reds, Madras patterns, or Seersucker.

The question of whether to wear socks with boat shoes is a matter of personal preference and the specific occasion or setting. Traditionally, boat shoes were designed to be worn without socks, but some people may opt for no-show or low-cut socks to maintain hygiene and prevent odor.

In conclusion, boat shoes serve both functional and fashion purposes. They are designed to provide grip and traction on slippery boat decks while also offering a versatile and stylish option for casual wear. Whether you're a boater or not, boat shoes can be a comfortable and stylish addition to your wardrobe.

The history of boat shoes

Boat shoes, also known as deck shoes or top-siders, were invented in 1935 by American Paul A. Sperry of New Haven, Connecticut. Sperry was an avid sailor who noticed that his leather shoes would slip on the deck of his ship. One winter's day, he observed his dog, a cocker spaniel named Prince, running easily over ice without slipping. Upon closer inspection, Sperry noticed tiny grooves in the dog's paws, which provided grip on the icy surface. Using a knife, he cut grooves, or "siping", into the soles of his shoes, creating a shoe that was suitable for boating. Sperry called his invention the "Top-Sider", as the shoes were designed to keep the wearer on the top side of their boat.

Sperry's initial design featured black soles, which left unsightly marks on boat decks. To address this issue, he switched to white rubber soles, and the modern boat shoe was born. Sperry's shoes gained popularity among sailors and boaters, and in 1939, the U.S. Navy began manufacturing Top-Siders for its sailors. Sperry sold his company to the U.S. Rubber Company, which began marketing Sperry Top-Siders across America.

In the 1970s, boat shoes became casual footwear in coastal areas of the United States, Canada, Europe, China, and Australia. They were particularly popular among the preppy fashion crowd and were featured in the 1980 book "The Official Preppy Handbook" by Lisa Birnbach. This exposure helped elevate the shoe to trendy status, and it experienced a revival in the late 2000s. Today, boat shoes are worn by both men and women of all ages and are commonly used for functional and aesthetic reasons, offering comfort and style for those seeking a relaxed look.

Boat shoes: when and where to wear them

Boat shoes are a classic casual shoe trend in the menswear world. They were originally made for sailors and boaters who needed a shoe that would prevent them from slipping on the boat deck. However, it didn't take long for people outside of the boating world to notice the perks of these shoes. The practical non-slip rubber sole and unique hand-sewn upper design drew attention from every kind of shoe wearer.

Today, boat shoes are commonly used by boaters and non-boaters alike, both for functional and aesthetic reasons. When it comes to where and when to wear boat shoes, here are some tips to help you master this look:

• The Beach: Boat shoes are perfect for maritime activities. Wear them to the beach or on your next boat trip to look like a local.
• Travel: Once you've broken them in, boat shoes are comfortable and easy to get on and off, making them ideal for long treks with luggage.
• The Office: Boat shoes can be appropriate for the office, especially in a business casual environment. They add style to your outfit without being too formal.
• Dates: Wearing boat shoes can be a great conversation starter and show your personality.
• Winter: It is generally not recommended to wear boat shoes in the winter as they may look out of place and risk getting wet. Save them for warmer environments.
• Fancy Occasions: Boat shoes are not meant for black-tie affairs. Stick to more casual and laid-back events.
• With Jeans: Boat shoes pair well with denim. For a nautical look, try cuffing the hems of your jeans.
• With Chinos: Boat shoes can be worn with colorful chinos, but it's important to ensure the colors contrast to balance the outfit. For example, pair bold red or green chinos with a more neutral-colored shoe.
• With Shorts: Boat shoes and shorts are a perfect combo for summertime. Just make sure the colors balance each other out.
• Socks: Traditionally, boat shoes were designed to be worn without socks. However, some people may prefer to wear no-show or low-cut socks to maintain hygiene and prevent odor. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
• Suits: Boat shoes typically don't fit well with a formal look. If you want to dress them up, opt for dark wash denim and a blazer instead of a suit.

In addition to the above guidelines, here are some general tips to keep in mind when wearing boat shoes:

• Keep Them in Good Shape: A little patina on boat shoes is acceptable, but don't let them become too worn down. Consider keeping a newer pair for restaurants and bars, and an older pair for casual settings.
• Stick with Classics: Boat shoes look best when they're simply luxurious versions of the original Sperry Top-Sider from 1935. Think neutral leather, moccasin-style upper with rugged laces and a slip-proof rubber sole.
• Pants Length: When wearing boat shoes with pants, avoid aggressive rolling of the hems. Instead, opt for trousers, suits, or jeans that skim the tops of your shoes.
• Keep the Preppy in Check: The boat shoe is a preppy staple, so it pairs well with chinos and polo shirts. To avoid looking like a frat guy, pump the brakes on pastel colors, embroidered belts, and Croakies.
• Shorter Length Pants: Boat shoes are a great alternative to dress shoes and flip-flops, whether you're spending your summer on a boat, at the beach, or even at your desk.

By following these guidelines and tips, you can master the boat shoe style and wear them with confidence in the right settings.

Boat shoes: what to wear them with

Boat shoes are a classic casual shoe trend, especially in menswear. They were originally designed for sailors and boaters to prevent slipping on boat decks, but they soon became popular outside of the boating world due to their practicality and unique design. Today, boat shoes are worn by boaters and non-boaters alike for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Here are some tips on what to wear them with:

Wear Them to the Beach:

Boat shoes are perfect for maritime activities, so don't be afraid to rock your favourite pair on your next beach trip. They are easy to slip on and off and will keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Wear Them with Jeans:

Boat shoes and denim are a match made in heaven. Cuff the hems of your jeans for an effortless, nautical look that draws attention to your shoes.

Wear Them with Colourful Chinos:

If you want to add a pop of colour to your outfit, pair your boat shoes with colourful trousers. Just make sure the colour of your pants contrasts with the colour of your shoes. For example, if you're going bold with red or green chinos, opt for a more neutral-coloured shoe like brown.

Wear Them with Shorts:

Boat shoes and shorts are a classic summertime combination. Just make sure that if your shoes are detailed and attention-grabbing, you pair them with plainer, tailored shorts so the look isn't overkill.

Keep the Preppy in Check:

The boat shoe is a preppy staple, so it will feel right at home with chinos and polo shirts. To channel your inner JFK, steer clear of pastel colours, embroidered belts, and Croakies. Instead, opt for a simple, classic look.

Stick with the Classics:

When it comes to boat shoes, less is more. Opt for neutral leather, moccasin-style shoes with rugged laces and a slip-proof rubber sole. The original Sperry Top-Sider from 1935 is a timeless classic that is always a safe choice.

Go for Shorter Length Pants:

When wearing boat shoes, avoid overly aggressive rolls on your pants. A little roll goes a long way, especially when you're nowhere near the dock. Try cropped trousers, suits, or jeans that skim the tops of your shoes.

Boat shoe maintenance

Boat shoes are a popular shoe choice for many, but they require proper maintenance to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips to help you maintain your boat shoes:

Breaking in Your Boat Shoes:

The process of breaking in boat shoes can take months or even years to achieve the ultimate comfort level. To accelerate this process, you can use a method called "weathering." Fill a flat container with saltwater, ensuring it is large enough to accommodate your shoes horizontally. Place your shoes inside with the soles flat on the bottom, making sure the water doesn't reach the interior of the shoe. Let them sit for at least four hours. The saltwater will help soften the leather and give your shoes a worn-in look. After soaking, rinse the shoes with cold water and let them air dry.

Cleaning and Conditioning:

To clean your leather boat shoes, use a soft cloth dipped in leather cleaner or a mild dish soap solution. Avoid using any cleaners that contain acid or detergents. Wipe down the shoes to remove dirt and debris, then rinse and air dry them. Do not soak the shoes in water. Once they are dry, apply a conditioner such as mink oil or leather shoe oil to maintain water resistance and supple leather. For suede and nubuck leather, use a suede brush or nubuck brush to restore the texture and remove spots.

Odour Removal and Stain Treatment:

To remove odours from your boat shoes, use odour absorbers like baby powder, kitty litter, tea bags, or dryer sheets inside the shoes overnight. For stain removal, use a dry brush to gently brush off the stain without applying water or stain remover, as these can damage the leather.

Storage and Protection:

Always use a shoe horn when putting on your boat shoes to maintain their shape. Keep them away from direct sunlight and water exposure to prevent discolouration and changes in texture. Store them in a cool, dry place, using shoe trees to retain their shape. Additionally, use a protective spray on your shoes, especially if they are made of leather, and let them dry for 24 hours after spraying.

Repair and Resole:

With proper care, your boat shoes can last for years. However, if the soles of your shoes wear out, you may need to consider resoling or repairing them. There are specialised services available, such as NuShoe, that offer handcrafted shoe renewal and resoling for boat shoes, helping to extend the life of your favourite footwear.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your boat shoes remain in excellent condition, providing you with comfort and style for years to come.

Frequently asked questions