Sperry Vs Dsw: Boat Shoes Compared

Sperry Top-Sider Boat Shoes have been a preppy icon for generations. The company has been outfitting people with innovative design, fashion, and comfort since 1935. Sperry boat shoes for women come with the promise of innovative comfort features, as well as Sperry's staple wet/dry traction for non-slip safety for the dock and beyond. The shoes come in a variety of styles, ranging from the traditional angelfish boat shoe to authentic original 2-eye boat shoe designs in classic colours and materials like leather and suede, to fun seasonal materials and colours like metallics, brights, and patterns.

Sperry's boat shoe history

Paul Alling Sperry, born in New Haven, Connecticut, was an inventor, businessman, photographer, screen printer, sailor, and outdoorsman. He designed the first boat shoe and founded Sperry, formerly known as Sperry Top-Sider, a sportswear company now headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts.

Sperry spent his early years in Stamford, Connecticut, and New York City, and briefly attended school in Paris, France, before receiving additional schooling at the Taft School in Connecticut. He joined Dartmouth College in New Hampshire as a freshman but only stayed for a year. Before joining the Naval Reserve in 1917, he worked as a salesman and in the master mechanic's office of the United States Finishing Company of New York.

Sperry's interest in boating and sailing began at a young age. His grandfather, William Wallace Sperry, was a shipbuilder and served as a sergeant major in the 13th Connecticut Infantry Regiment during the American Civil War. In the early 1930s, Sperry purchased his first boat, Gilnockie, which won second prize in the Vineyard Race sponsored by the Stamford Yacht Club. He later bought a schooner named Sirocco, which was damaged during the 1938 New England hurricane.

Sperry's experience of slipping and falling overboard while sailing on the Long Island Sound inspired him to develop a non-slip shoe. He noticed that his dogs could run down icy hills without slipping, and the grooves on their paws inspired him to cut grooved patterns (siping) into a natural rubber sole. After experimenting with various patterns, he settled on a herringbone zigzag design, which proved to be highly slip-resistant. Within a few years, he was producing and selling a canvas boating shoe with this unique non-slip sole to members of the Cruising Club of America.

Sperry's new design, the Sperry Authentic Original boat shoe, featured a unique "saddle" through which rawhide laces were pulled. The leather used in the shoe was tanned using a special process to withstand salt and water. He named the shoe the Top-Sider because it helped keep people topside on a boat deck. The U.S. War Department specified the Sperry Top-Sider as one of the official shoes of the Navy, and it became the official footwear of the casual uniform of the United States Naval Academy.

In 1940, Sperry sold his business to the United States Rubber Company, which successfully marketed the shoe across the United States. The Sperry boat shoe gained popularity due to influential figures like John F. Kennedy, who was often photographed wearing Top-Siders during his presidency. Surfers in southern California also adopted the shoes, and they became a part of the 1960s California surf culture craze. The shoe's visibility was further raised by yachtsman Dennis Conner's three America's Cup victories in the 1980s, who became a brand spokesman. Today, the Sperry boat shoe continues to be a popular choice for those seeking both style and functionality.

Sperry's boat shoe design

Sperry Top-Sider boat shoes have been a staple in the boating world and beyond since 1935. The brand has been outfitting men and women with high-performance, high-style boat shoes for over 80 years, evolving into a must-have shoe for adventurous spirits. The design of the Sperry boat shoe is an iconic one, with a lasting legacy of authentic design and the innovation of modern inspiration.

Sperry boat shoes for men and women come in a variety of classic designs and materials, such as the 2-eye boat shoe in leather or canvas, that made the brand famous. The 2-eye boat shoe design is a classic, featuring a lace-up front with two eyelets and a moccasin-like construction. This design is typically crafted from leather or canvas and is available in a range of colours, from neutrals like navy and brown to brighter shades. The shoe also features a non-marking rubber outsole with a signature wave-siping pattern for wet and dry traction, providing non-slip safety for the dock and beyond.

In addition to the classic 2-eye boat shoe, Sperry offers a range of other designs, including the Authentic Original™ Boat Shoe, the Gold Cup™ Boat Shoe, and the Billfish™ 3-Eye Boat Shoe. These designs often feature a flat heel and are available in a variety of materials, such as leather, canvas, mesh, and patterned fabrics. The Gold Cup™ collection, for example, combines superior craftsmanship with unmatched comfort and style, offering a pinnacle of luxury.

While Sperry is known for its classic designs, the brand also offers new spins on the traditional boat shoe look. This includes the use of modern materials like mesh and patterned fabrics, athletic-inspired designs, and 3-eye styles. These updated designs provide cutting-edge style for the modern adventurer, evoking an enduring style at home, at sail, and abroad. Sperry boat shoes are not just limited to the docks, but have become a fashion staple, offering innovative comfort and style for a range of occasions.

DSW's boat shoe design

Classic Style, Modern Comfort: DSW's boat shoes strike a perfect balance between timeless style and modern comfort. The design pays homage to the rich sailing heritage while incorporating contemporary features that ensure a pleasant wearing experience. These shoes are crafted with attention to detail, ensuring they become a versatile staple in your wardrobe, suitable for both sea and land adventures.

Quality Materials: DSW's boat shoes are made with premium materials, including soft leather or nubuck, that ensure a comfortable fit and a unique look. The supple leather shapes itself to your foot over time, creating a custom-made feel with every wear. This natural material is breathable and durable, making it ideal for long days spent exploring the deck or strolling through town.

Secure Fit: The traditional one-lace system of DSW's boat shoes provides a secure and comfortable fit. The leather cord laces surround the foot and are tied at the front, preventing slipping and ensuring a stable stride. This design feature not only enhances your safety on slippery surfaces but also adds a touch of classic boat shoe style to the overall design.

Traction and Grip: A key component of DSW's boat shoe design is the rubber sole, which provides excellent traction on various surfaces. The sole is designed with razor-cut 'siping,' creating gripped support that keeps you steady on deck or during your daily excursions. This innovative sole technology ensures you can confidently navigate any terrain, knowing you have a firm grip underfoot.

Versatile Styling: DSW's boat shoes offer a versatile styling range, allowing you to seamlessly transition from seafaring adventures to casual outings. You can pair them with chinos or cargo shorts and a buttoned or polo shirt for a timeless nautical look. Alternatively, swap out your trainers for DSW's boat shoes to elevate your casual ensemble. The design works well with light or dark denim, depending on your desired look, from laid-back weekends to smarter evenings out.

Personalization: DSW's boat shoes provide an opportunity for personal expression. Whether you prefer the traditional no-sock look, following the maritime tradition, or opt for a pair of long ankle socks, you can make these shoes your own. For an extra touch of sophistication, cable-knitted socks can subtly reference the shoe's preppy heritage.

Boat shoe maintenance

Boat shoes are a great addition to your wardrobe, but they do require some maintenance to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips to help you take care of your boat shoes:

Breaking in Your Boat Shoes:

Before wearing your boat shoes, it's a good idea to break them in. This can be done by wearing them in various settings, such as the beach, sightseeing, or on a boat. Some people also recommend exposing them to seawater, salt, and sun to help speed up the process and improve their comfort.

Weathering Your Boat Shoes:

If you want to give your boat shoes a more weathered look, you can try this method: fill a flat container with saltwater, making sure it doesn't reach the interior of the shoe. Let the shoes sit in the saltwater for at least 4 hours. The salt will help remove the topcoat and soften the leather. After soaking, rinse the shoes with cold water and let them air dry.

Cleaning and Conditioning:

To clean your 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 the shoes to remove dirt and debris, then rinse and air dry. Do not soak the shoes in water, and avoid using a dryer or exposing them to direct heat. Once they are dry, apply a conditioner such as mink oil or leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and water-resistant.

Daily Care and Storage:

Always use a shoe horn when putting on your boat shoes to maintain their shape. Keep them free of dirt, dust, and salt deposits using a brush. Store them carefully using shoe trees to help retain their shape, and replace the insoles if they become moist or wet. Additionally, keep an eye on the soles and get them repaired if you notice significant wear and tear.

Leather Care for Smooth Leather Boat Shoes:

To protect smooth leather boat shoes, shine them regularly with a water-based cream shoe polish. Avoid hard waxes, liquid polishes, or quick-drying polishes that contain alcohol or silicone.

Leather Care for Suede and Nubuck Leather Boat Shoes:

For suede boat shoes, sprinkle and massage cornmeal onto the surface, leave it overnight, and then brush it off. Use a brass-bristle suede brush to realign the grain. For nubuck leather, use a nubuck brush to restore the lustre. Spots can be removed with a pencil eraser and a vinegar and water solution.

Canvas and Cloth-Based Boat Shoe Care:

Hand wash canvas boat shoes with soap and avoid using a washing machine, as it may damage the shoes. Do not use any type of polish on canvas shoes.

Drying Wet Boat Shoes:

When dealing with wet boat shoes, dry them at room temperature and avoid direct heat or sunlight to prevent cracking. Stuffing them with newspaper can help retain their shape while they dry. Once dry, brush them and apply shoe cream if needed.

Boat shoe styling

Boat shoes are a timeless classic, having been a staple on land and at sea since 1935. But how do you style them?

The boat shoe is a versatile shoe that can be dressed up or down. For a casual look, pair your boat shoes with light denim and a button-up or polo shirt. This will give you a smart-casual appearance, perfect for a relaxed day out. Alternatively, for a more relaxed vibe, swap the jeans for cargo shorts.

If you want to elevate your boat shoes for a smarter occasion, opt for dark leather boat shoes with a pair of dark denim jeans and a shirt. This will create a sleek and polished look.

When it comes to colour, it's best to stick to the nautical theme. Tan, navy, and white are the classic choices and will give you that timeless, preppy aesthetic. You can also try a pair in a fun seasonal colour or pattern, such as metallics, brights, or stripes, for a more modern take on the boat shoe.

But what about socks? This is a matter of personal preference. Traditionally, boat shoes are worn without socks, as the soft leather and one-lace system provide a close and comfortable fit. However, if you feel more comfortable with socks, go for long ankle socks that won't show if your trousers ride up. Cable-knit socks are also a great option, as they pay homage to the shoe's preppy heritage.

So, whether you're heading to the yacht club or just strolling through the city, boat shoes are a stylish and comfortable choice. With their supple materials, rubber soles, and iconic status, they are a true wardrobe staple.

Frequently asked questions