Boat Shoe Guide - How To Wear Deck Shoes, Break Them In & Mistakes To Avoid

See our comprehensive guide to BOAT SHOES here: gentl.mn/boat-shoes-guide
#boatshoes #notsponsored #gentlemansgazette
00:00 Introduction
In the early 1930's, Paul Sperry looked at his dog and was surprised that he had an amazing amount of grip on the ice. Upon closer inspection of the dog's pads on his feet, he realized that there was a slight herringbone pattern. Intrigued by this pattern, Paul started actually carving a herringbone pattern into his shoes and voila!, he had more grip.
The process of getting the ridges in your shoe soles is also known as siping. This concept is actually invented in 1923 by John F. Sipe. In 1935, the first Sperry Topsider boat shoe or deck shoe was introduced to the market and it was a mid-brown shoe with mid-brown leather laces and that was the birth of the boat shoe as you know it today.
01:47 BOAT SHOE CHARACTERISTICS
- The traditional boat shoe came in brown, but today, you can find all kinds of colors. Basically any other color under the sun.
- In terms of leather, boat shoes are made with a water repellent finish such as the chromexcel from Horween.
- An important feature of the traditional boat shoe is that it's hand-sewn so you can see hand sewing all along.
- It has the moccasin toe construction which is also sewn by hand though today, sometimes, they're sewn by machine.
- Boat shoes, traditionally, feature a 360-degree lacing system
- Most boat shoes in the market will feature two rows of aglet.
- In order for it to be a boat shoe, it has to have white soles
In theory, the thin ridges are better for a deck and these are better for streetwear. In practice, I haven't noticed much difference between the thin ridges and the thick ridges.
The Subject of heated debate is whether you should wear boat shoes with or without socks. Most people wear them barefoot especially when you're in a setting on a deck or a boat simply because you have a better grip and it suits the original style. of course, when it's a little cooler outside and you're not in that setting, you can wear socks with them. If you're concerned that your feet sweat too much, simply get a cotton insert or you can also go with these socks that you don't see and then you have the best of both worlds.
05:24 When & How to Wear Boat Shoes
- Boat shoes are best paired with slim jeans or pants, khakis, chinos, or slacks.
- Boat shoes are a big step-up from sneakers, and they also work well with denim and jeans in darker tones or also white. They look particularly good at that setting if you combine them with a polo shirt.
- Can be worn with Oxford cloth button-down shirt because it just fits that whole east-coast type heritage of the shoe.
- Overall, it's a shoe that's great for the beach or the lake and any other casual setting.
- Great for traveling.
When you buy a new pair of boat shoes, sometimes the leather can be very hard and you have to break them in. The easiest way to do that is to get into the shoe, tighten it, and then make it really wet so the leather can conform to your foot and dry that way. If you don't want to do that, simply wear them a few times on short distances to avoid blistering.
07:19 Taking Care of Boat Shoes
- Ideally, use an emulsion based shoe polish, either in that color or in neutral, like the one here. It's important to use those because they soak into the leather.
- I find these turpentine wax paste a little too much, I only use them very rarely because they add a layer of waterproofing but if you only use them, you see cracks and it's simply too much for the leather and the look is not as good.
- If you're in a dusty environment, they get dirty very quickly. In that case, I suggest you use a toothbrush and some water and some saddle soap to clean the shoes. It will last you longer and develop a nice patina if you keep them dirt free.
- Once they're wet, either through rain or because you washed them, make sure to dry them but in a natural setting.
- Just like any other shoe, you should use a shoehorn to put them on, it will help you to keep the heel in shape.
- If you get stains in your boat shoes, try to use a little bit of vinegar and water and rub on it.
Now that you know how to treat your shoes, what to pick, what to go for, the question arises of where to buy your boat shoes? Please do check out our guide for brand recommendations.
=======================================
To never miss any of our videos again, sign up here for free:
gentl.mn/1TQUPfa
Want to see more videos? Subscribe to our channel!
/ thegentlemansgazette
=======================================
Gentleman's Gazette
gentl.mn/1t0gdb1
www.gentlemansgazette.com/
Facebook: / gentlemansgazette
Instagram: / gentlemansgazette
FREE EBOOK: gentl.mn/1TQUPfa

[@dramirezg70]

They are also very long lasting. I've had my Sperry's for almost 20 years, and still look and feel awesome.

[@danielainsworth4092]

mine only lasted two years, but i think that has alot to do with me welding in them. after those were gone i went out and bought the exact style and color over again

[@dramirezg70]

Worth every penny. :-)

[@jefffawcett]

They last a long time HOWEVER The grip of the soles on wet surfaces absolutely does not last nearly as long as the uppers. I’ve had my current pair for at least 10 years of fairly frequent use and right now they are outright dangerous on wet surfaces, even a wet sidewalk never mind the deck of a boat. Meanwhile the newer boating flip-flops I have are awesome on wet

[@baylorbenson8603]

I guess im randomly asking but does someone know a tool to log back into an Instagram account? I was dumb lost my account password. I love any tricks you can offer me

[@cohentadeo3033]

@Baylor Benson Instablaster :)

[@RonPaul4Pres2k8]

Coming from someone who attended private schools growing up, spent many days jumping in and out the springs in our neighborhood, been on many boats, yachts, etc... I can tell you that the design of these shoes is for you to not wear socks of any type. Theses shoes are basically intended to become your 2nd pair of skin ... if you will. That said, they have an iconic Americana look to them, which compels a lot of people to wear them around town (even when not at the lake, beach, boats, etc... ) I admit, I do this as well... as I've worn them out around town shopping at beach-side communities (think Saint Armands circle, Sarasota, FL and all keys in FL), If I'm on a boat, it's a must because you're not going to be the guy/girl who leaves marks all over the deck (people will come looking for you lol). One quite note: the color of the sole doesn't mean they're non marking. It's the type of rubber they use to create the sole. This allows soles of many differing colors, though the most classic sole is white and off-white. Naturally, you'll therefore see these shoes at yacht clubs all around the globe (yet depending on the club, always call ahead and ask what attire they do not allow when booking or having been invited to dinner specifically). Now, does this all mean that you cannot wear socks with them? Yes, you can wear them, though they will feel extra snug when you option to do so vs. always doing so and you will hate the feeling should they get wet! One very common complaint is that your feet will peel or blister, which is why people think they have to wear socks. The solution for this is quite simple. Yes it's true that with enough wear and enough use within water (and wearing them until they dry), they will conform to your feet, but here's the thing... it takes about 5-10 times of that type of scenario to get to that goal. So, what I've always done is never wear socks (not even no-show socks) and instead use moleskin!!! I use the moleskin for my heal until the shoes are worn-in. Another option that I use in combination with my new Sperrys are to use gel/silicon toe protectors (i like the cylindrical type so your toe breaths more and they go on/off much quicker). Something else I do is coat and rub the inside of the shoes with mink oil, although i have honestly no idea if this speeds up the process ... it seems mostly anecdotal at this point to me. If you still feel that you rather wear socks, then go for it, but no-show socks are really the only option in that scenario unless you wanna be "that guy/girl" who will be invariably lumped in with those who wear sandals with socks lol. One other side-note is that if you are happen to come across a beach that has a lot of sharp shelly/rocky sand, look into water-shoes for that specific application so that you can enjoy all you want. Boat shoes are not for this application however since they're not designed to quickly drain the shells and water. Bon voyage.

[@martinwagner7619]

I've been wearing boatshoes for the last couple of years but as a non US-Viewer I just recently discovered the preppy east coast style and they fit in so perfectly. Thank you for this video it's so informative.

[@gentlemansgazette]

You're welcome. We have more on www.gentlemansgazette.com

[@SassyPonytail]

I work for Sperry, and I very much appreciate the advice on styles to wear with the deck shoes. This video is very informative, and "to the point". I appreciate you for making it. 👍🏻

[@joshuaandrosebartley896]

Mama Mouse I’m behind times here lol I just got my first pair of Sperry’s today lol. I’ve had other boat shoes but find the sperry top siders I just got much better looking!!

[@westernmike365]

Thanks for making so many things possible. North is true always!

[@great-garden-watch]

Nothing beats the thin razor cuts that Sperry does for keeping grip on a wet deck!

[@andrewkoastephens210]

This is a super video. I would like to add a couple points to the boat shoe discussion. Since a sea-scout as a boy to sailing my own vessels on the San Francisco Bay. I have worn them my whole life. Perhaps we have our own traditions here but they are close held traditions. First, sailors never wear cotton socks. Wool stays warm even when wet, cotton does not. I keep to this tradition while wearing top-siders. If wearing socks I only wear wool with boat shoes. After the break in period, laces will not require readjustment. If using leather laces, it is traditional (at least on the West Coast of the US) to tie a square knot instead of a bow then snip away the excess lace about an inch from the knot. It looks tidy and will not accidentally become untied.

[@gentlemansgazette]

Thanks for the input!

[@stevenbryant4718]

With leather laces I use a closed jack ketch knot and slip them on. This was common ar one time.

[@stevenbryant4718]

Also a heaving knot can be used on each lace end instead of both into the jack catch that bights the lace ends on either for,ed loops. You only have to tie it once.

[@edubwalter3179]

I fell in love with Sperry Boat Shoes as a teenager in the 80's! Absolute classic...I still wear them to this day!

[@nicolasgombert8551]

Love my timberland boat shoes, bought in the US for half the price than they selling them here in Germany! Super long lasting and you don‘t sweat at all in them! I highly recommend buying these;)

[@manuel_winde]

I really like the chunky sole timberlands shoes in this style- always better ti get Ralph Lauren and timberlands in USA where possible, so much cheaper than Europe! (I’m in the U.K. where everything is more expensive 😫)

[@B8T4]

I literally came here to see if I should wear them with socks or not lmao

[@gentlemansgazette]

What did you find out? :D

[@iljitoto]

Betta without, even the top siders

[@Bobduncan556]

Betta you wear no show socks I wear them and they work perfectly with them :D

[@Bru946]

I wear nike socks to school and stuff but out leasurly I wear them with the small Sperry socks.

[@Rmon_34]

Same

[@abdelrahmanabuelnaga8178]

Wonderful video.Before watching this video,i knew nothing about Boat shoes;however,i know now a huge deal of information about them.Thanks a lot.

[@JosephGallagher]

My Gods, that was very detailed. Loved it, thank you.

[@llcooljaz1097]

Great timing with this vid just purchased my first pair 👍🏽

[@barronlux440]

Thank you for another great video. Very informative. If I want to know something about style, I always start here.

[@gentlemansgazette]

Sounds good. Thanks for the support! Please spread the word. There's more on www.gentlemansgazette.com. You can also sign up to our newsletter to get a free ebook as well as updates on our contents and products. www.gentlemansgazette.com/newsletter-sign-up/

[@Gigabajts]

Perfect timing! Wonderful video, as always

[@gentlemansgazette]

Sounds good. Thanks for the support! Please spread the word. There's more on www.gentlemansgazette.com. You can also sign up to our newsletter to get a free ebook as well as updates on our contents and products. www.gentlemansgazette.com/newsletter-sign-up/

[@actionLEGOs]

Awesome! I've needed a guide like this!

[@a1ecu]

This video actually made me want to buy my first pair of boat shoes! Great informative video!

[@gentlemansgazette]

Sounds good. Thanks for the support! Please spread the word.

[@gentlemansgazette]

There's also more at www.gentlemansgazette.com

[@winternorthener3350]

sunt faini asai?

[@slimphotog]

Same here. I'm wearing my red, white and blue pair for Independence Day. I bought them after I saw this video. Sperry's owes Gentleman's Gazette a commission. :)

[@anomnomnomnivore1350]

Ralph Lauren and timberland also makes good boat shoes

[@Daedolon134]

Great video! Very informative.

[@murrayzuckerman123]

Great video. Love this type of shoes.

[@achilliesrocks1]

Love the informative videos!

[@pubu2010]

You are fast becoming a National Treasure. Well Done.

[@stevenbryant4718]

Great overview on deck shoes!

[@usetheschwartz52]

been looking for something like this. appreciated!

[@gentlemansgazette]

Sounds good. Thanks for the support! Please spread the word. There's more on www.gentlemansgazette.com. You can also sign up to our newsletter to get a free ebook as well as updates on our contents and products. www.gentlemansgazette.com/newsletter-sign-up/

[@jonathonshanecrawford1840]

I was referred by Suzane _chat_ *Gentlemans Gazette,* to watch this video, and I found it very helpful, as here in Australia and New Zealand cedar shoe trees cost from $100 to $150 a pair!

[@magwence]

very informative

[@edwardCYHsu]

How to tie boat shoes laces, especially the tarsel knots. I was told it had its maritime tradition that sailors would not want to be tripped by their shoe laces. I found them on the posters of the Sperry series of shoes, but I am not able to tie mine.

[@christophercolby6680]

Cool video, very informative. thank you

[@CapitanFantasma1776]

Thanks!

[@zhenxinraysong3846]

Great video! Thanks!

[@gentlemansgazette]

Sounds good. Thanks for the support! Please spread the word. There's more on www.gentlemansgazette.com. You can also sign up to our newsletter to get a free ebook as well as updates on our contents and products. www.gentlemansgazette.com/newsletter-sign-up/

[@ironlung8780]

Learned a lot from your videos. Thank you!

[@gentlemansgazette]

You're welcome!

[@RcW1023]

Can I wear boat shoes even though I do not own a boat?

[@SweeturKraut]

Ge Qu I bet 90% of people who wear these don't own a boat.

[@RcW1023]

SweeturKraut Really? I didn't start wearing drivers until I got my first car. What a shocker

[@denaboys7609]

Ge Qu I mean you can, it's not a law. I own 2 and wear these. But it's extra points on women if you have a boat and wear boatshoes

[@nickgameplyr2613]

While it's true that exceptions can be made for passengers on boats or employees on boats, like deckhands or fishermen, the general public is discouraged from wearing boat shoes while not engaging in boating or other boat related activities.

[@dogymal7260]

I own an airplane and boat shoes at the same time

[@-----REDACTED-----]

Iirc the hand sewing usually only refers to the vamp, specifically where the “tongue” meets the front half to make the typical moc shape.

[@danielmads9160]

I love Boat shoes, I use a pair this day, they are blue and brown with brown lacing

[@danielmads9160]

Also I use a blue Blazer and I think it maches

[@themoonisaspacestation]

just bought a pair of timberland classic 2 eye, awesome quality

[@AchidAbd]

me 2

[@AzuarARazak]

Got my Sperry Soletide 2-Eye Black (hybrid boat shoes)..ATW! 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@lucymelancon6534]

I love how you throw in the history :)

[@Crocomum]

OMG Raphael, you wear shorts, i didn't know you went that casual :,)??????

[@marksshoereviews6028]

I bought a pair of boat shoes from Rancourt and they’re far better quality than the standard line Sebagos or Sperrys (although pricier too). I’ve heard great things about Quoddy too.

[@stephen4347]

Wow, very informative. Need to get one for the summer maybe two.

[@gentlemansgazette]

Cool ;)

[@MatthewJBD]

I bought Timberland ones, very happy with them. They were around £80.

[@pmue437]

The same with french TBS boat shoes

[@AJohnson0325]

My Sperry topsiders were very uncomfortable and even painful at times when they were new because of where they would rub against my ankle. Now they are extremely comfortable and, as he said, a good daily replacement for athletic shoes. I wear them all the time.

[@fastfoxblox]

Hi, how long does it take to break these types of shoes in? I just got a pair and they've been quite uncomfortable, especially around the heel area

[@miguelc6563]

I hope there's a video on how to easily lace boat shoes.

[@GabeCokerMS]

I know this isn’t intended to be a catch-all for deck shoe info, but I do wish more had been discussed about the differences between shoes worn on-deck and shoes simply styled in the boat shoe manner. For instance, the Sperrys I wear to church are very appropriate for casual wear, even with a tie. The shoes I wear on the water are VERY different. They’re vented, to allow water to enter and escape easily, and wouldn’t look right in many other applications.

[@williamkazak469]

I wear the Sperry CVO styles with socks. Living in the Midwest they are more practical. When I had the leather boat shoes styles, I needed the three eyelet versions in order to keep the shoes taunt.

[@felix121984]

Your feet stink mine smell better than your feet.

[@ahmetmehmet5690]

I think you should make a video about cordovan dress shoes Raphael.

[@1BCamden]

good overview, any thoughts on taking them off without bringing the insole along too

[@darylee9023]

Dear Mr Schneider, Would you use shoe trees for your boat shoes? Thank you.

[@williamjc7195]

great info as always.

[@NL-in6uj]

There's some new startup called BoatSide USA that makes belts to match these boat shoes. They're made in the US too.

[@qegvW3H]

what I like on boatshoe's its perfect casual footwear for summer

[@realblackbetty2204]

So I got a 9.5 and they are a bit snug, the 10 are too roomy and I bit of heel slippage. Should I just stick with the 9.5 and it will fit to better as it stretches?

[@sirtaki2393]

¡He is great... any image of a boat, or the shoes being used on a boat!! hahaha!

[@drkz4ck]

Are Docksides the same as Boat Shoes? Also, what differs from Boat Shoes to Moccasins?

[@brianc9374]

I think if it's a dark brown shade, it can work with chinos and blazer.

[@17dumitru]

Most comfortable shoes 👍

[@cspiegs1]

Hello. In your video you mention that spending at least $150 will get you a decent pair of boat shoes with nice leather. I see that Sperry Topsiders are about $75 on average. So are these not good boat shoes to buy? Thanks for your thoughts on this.

[@LikeItOrNot117]

Hi! In my opinion, this is the best presented video I have seen you create so far! Just wanted to let you know everything about the way you presented was spot on, the information, to be honest I can't even think of any words to better describe it to you, 10/10 for everything! I feel perhaps one of the reasons it was a lot better than your other videos (again just my opinion, so take it with a grain of salt) is you seem to be having a bit more fun when delivering it, the slightly more casual nature and your more genuine look of happiness really dial the video to 11! Cheers

[@kashmikaakash]

I am srilankan and I think this is a helpful video

[@fluttershy77x]

How about Nubuk leather? Can it get wet too?

[@redneckboy6555]

I found some margaritaville ones at DSW shoe store for 75 $ good deal or no?

[@alistairgongob1423]

How well do they fit? True to size? Or half size down?

[@seriouswithdaysoff]

So after seeing the ones at 2:02 I have to ask. How does someone match their belt with odd ones like those?

[@martinwagner7619]

I would match the belt with the rest of the outfit mostly and I think a brown or a blue belt is appropriate.

[@eriquerique]

You know who would make a lovely Gentleman's Gazette guest presenter? Manny Delgado.

[@W81Researcher]

What about the ones without the laces to tie?

[@misteroz]

I sometimes pair my navy topsiders with a blazer if it’s a casual summer evening event with friends, like a barbecue. I only wear trainers in the gym, so it’s great for a slightly less formal look.

[@Pop15789]

Sir what shoes do you suggest for out side but dressy?

[@bryanrodriguez4000]

Hey can someone tell me if boat shoes go well as a busniess casual shoe or go for something else

[@potado2430]

Who else is paranoid of getting their shoes wet

[@MiniaceX]

Potado it’s alright man they’re boat shoes that’s what they’re for

[@Christian.h.]

Mine got absolutely drowned when I came into a rainstorm on my bike. They where totally fine

[@jonclarkson5911]

Put a protector spray on them. They look better when you do.

[@Heartrender1st]

Would you say that the brand tods provide good quality boat shoe? or shoes in general? the have many collections of mocs and boat shoes and are very stylish

[@user-pi5dv4lz4o]

Any recommendations please ! I have black leather sperrys and they are getting wrinkly is normal or should I be putting something on them

[@pratikb.k.4010]

Pokhara Lakeside at 6:40

[@TheMrSiMoNN]

What is your opinion of suede boat shoes?

[@Harrypotterxx2]

Whoa, I've never seen him in anything other than a suit!

[@NEKONEKOOOOOO]

Is this good for JS prom?

[@martysat2760]

Should I wear them in rainy days?

[@natnatdarwin]

Hi may feet is size 8, what size should I buy on boat shoes

[@MarvelNowProduction]

Is it OK if it has a heel

[@albertlund8561]

Hello!! I am from sweden and I am goding to travel to Miami in a week. I wonder if they have boar shoes there? (Especially Sebago)

[@gentlemansgazette]

Not sure. The only stores we can attest to are the ones in this guide: www.gentlemansgazette.com/boat-shoes-guide-buy-style-history-care/

[@buggsbunny9025]

I am looking for the timberland classic boat (white sole). My problem is that my foot length is 26,7 cm. size 8,5 is for foot length 26,5 cm , and size 9 is for 27 cm. the size 8,5 feels a little tight, but not really unconfortable. the size 9 fells confortable, but give me the feeling to have to much space and less grip in the shoes. Does anybody have recommendation which size to buy? or does the leather go wider? any experiance? thank you very much

[@edwardchan2920]

Is the gold club shoes of sperry good as they are premium of sperry but don’t have a white sole

[@CarverAlcantara]

Is Sperry a good boat shoe brand

[@Ichigolificacioon]

Where could i find the guide of differences between moccasins and boat shoes that yoy talk about in 2:49?

[@salvage6636]

to take to the beach? Last time I did the salt from the water messed up the leather. It confuses me

[@scottwallace901]

Boat shoes also make the best slippers. Last a lot longer that real slippers.

[@MrJackrockerman]

i have a white boat shoes.. how to style it ? (pants colour type)

[@MrAsgeir93]

Think about Bass(brand) boat shoes?

[@gentlemansgazette]

Check this. www.gentlemansgazette.com/boat-shoes-guide-buy-style-history-care/

[@robenmillan6994]

150 dollar boatshoe? where you get yours. mine are all sperrys and its only 35 to 85 dollars tops ..

[@0992mexiburger]

I normally wear them with vans socks

[@bromine1480]

apparently my laces don't go all around. is it acceptable?

[@ujumakunaruto5840]

That lake photo is from nepal.

[@kenvizon6751]

Hey

[@msheart2]

You know women also like boat shoes, I love mine but they have started to make them as if we don't have 5 toes, they need to be a bit more square in the toe box. I only like mine in leather classic, no funky colours, brown or tan and I like to put wear them walk into surf rinse while on with fresh water and then wear them till they dry.

[@josephmac4654]

I prefer brown soles as they don't get as dirty and look a little less frat boy

[@clarknebres7913]

Love wearing my sperrys but i can't stand not having socks on so I use those socks that are completely hidden (forgot what they're called)

[@Bobduncan556]

Iron Giant no shows

[@leileung2446]

Iron Giant heel socks or foot socks

[@fegelkidsavage9418]

I just wanted to know if boat shoes let me run at pe because I have to wear them instead of my rebooks

[@vinewood8295]

Bad idea to wear them for anything fitness related other than maybe riding a longboard...

[@jrandom2995]

Native New Englander here… We wear em all year round lol.

[@ImTheDudeMan471]

I declare by the powers invested in the San Diego lifestyle, "You can wear deck shoes to work". Specially to the west of I-5 in San Diego and in all California coastal zones. There, feel free to be a relaxed Californian.

[@natebrick875]

Original 2-eye Sperry boat shoes go for around $100, some of the best quality on the market. I have 2 pair that have lasted me for years.

[@paulorlando5877]

Seen for 95 st DSW.

[@darthbrutalicious6066]

Should I shave my leg at that place skin shows, though?

[@insertnamehere001]

As somebody who likes leather, hearing to soak them in water scares me.

[@JohanKylander]

I had to look at my dogs paws.

[@RasKiddo]

I'm obsessed with them. I need help