Choosing your sailing shoes
→ Deck shoes: the best boat shoes
Thanks to evolving technologies and manufacturing processes, deck shoes are now the best boat shoes available on the market!
The are what were more commonly known as boat shoes just a few years ago. In a nutshell, the boat shoe is the ancestor of today's deck shoe, and is now a higher-performance shoe designed to accompany you on board during your sailing maneuvers.
Originally designed for sailors and sailing enthusiasts, their main feature is their non-slip rubber sole, specially designed for maximum grip on wet surfaces. This makes them the boat-deck shoe to wear to prevent slipping.
Made from canvas, they are both sturdy and breathable, ideal for withstanding salt water and maritime conditions. With their casual yet elegant look, these deck shoes have made a name for themselves beyond the marine world, becoming a popular fashion accessory for summer and seaside outings.
Since the primary purpose of a deck shoe is to provide your feet with comfort, resistance and grip on the deck of your boat, which model should you choose for your use at sea?
→ Comparative boat shoes: which model to choose?
Which boat shoe should you choose for sailing? And for what use at sea: pleasure boating, offshore racing, regattas? For every activity on the water, there's a suitable pair of sailing shoes.
To help you choose the right footwear, and ensure your comfort and safety when on deck, we've listed the different models in a boat shoe comparison.
→ Boat shoes: for pleasure boating
Boat shoes : a classic of the genre, they offer comfort, elegance and grip.
Originally designed for pleasure boating, boat shoes are a must-have for sailing and maritime enthusiasts. In leather or canvas, they feature a non-marking, non-slip rubber sole, ideal for adhering to the wet surfaces of boat decks.
Waxed leather lacing, often running all the way around the boat shoe, ensures a secure fit, while their comfortable, breathable design allows them to be worn barefoot.
In addition to their functionality, these are a casual fashion classic.
→ Deck shoes: sport sailing & regatta
Deck shoes: useful for sport sailing, deck shoes for sport sailing and regattas are designed specifically to meet the requirements of sailors engaged in intense, competitive activities.
Their structure is optimized for maximum grip, thanks to rubber soles specially designed to evacuate water and prevent slipping on wet deck surfaces.
This type of model ensures long-lasting comfort. Made from technical materials such as neoprene or water-resistant synthetic fabrics, they protect feet from splashes and moisture while allowing great mobility.
Ergonomically designed and reinforced at strategic points, they are ideal for fast, precise maneuvers, guaranteeing optimum performance.
→ Boating boots: for offshore sailing
The are very useful when sailing in heavy weather or in the middle of winter. Boat boots offer optimum protection against moisture and harsh marine environments.
Made from waterproof materials such as rubber or PVC, these high-top boat boots keep water out, keeping feetdry even in rain or waves splashing on deck.
Their non-slip soles, often notched, guarantee excellent grip on wet surfaces, minimizing the risk of slipping.
Some boots also feature insulating linings for warmth and comfort in cold waters. Sturdy and durable, they are indispensable for prolonged outings at sea.
How do I care for my sailing shoes?
Like watch clothes, sailing shoes require regular care due to their exposure to sea water and sunlight. Deck shoes should be rinsed in clear water to remove salt, then washed in soapy water. Some are even machine washable.
The requiremore care: waterproof them before use, clean them with clear water afterwards, then leave them to air-dry with paper inside. If worn, apply a colorless shoe polish or leather cream, then waterproof again.
→ Deck shoes: what are the advantages?
The contemporary version of the boat shoe remains the most suitable pair of shoes for sailing. Nevertheless, there are many features to consider when choosing a shoe for sailing, depending on your activity on the water.
Choosing the right boat shoes means extra comfort at sea. However, even the best pair of sneakers won't guarantee you a good fit on the deck of a boat, so be sure to check the criteria below before placing your order online.
➡️ The sole
The sole is the key element of a boat shoe, as it ensures grip on a wet deck. Choose a rubber sole, with fine grooves to avoid standing water and gravel. All our shoes are equipped with non-slip, non-marking soles.
➡️ The upper
The upper part of a sailing shoe plays a key role in ensuring comfort and protection. Often made of leather to limit odors, it can also be made of Gore-tex for waterproofing and breathability. The interior, designed with a variety of materials, enhances comfort. The laces, in leather or textile, can incorporate quick lacing or circular lacing, typical of boat shoes, for better support.
➡️ Size
Sizing is common to all deck shoes. Here, we recommend that you follow the size guide recommended by manufacturers, and, if in doubt, take a slightly larger size. You'll then be able to easily wear in your deck shoes to keep your feet dry.
➡️ The drainage system
The drainage system evacuates water that has entered the shoe to the outside. This system consists of drainage holes on the sides or in the sole of the boat shoe, and also plays an essential role in keeping your feet comfortable, by ensuring good drainage of seawater into your shoe.
→ Boat shoes: which is the best brand?
At Nautisports, we offer a wide choice of deck shoes, boat shoes or boat boots for men and women. You can consult the product sheet for each shoe to find all the details such as shoe size, sole composition, price or color.
You'll find all the leading brands for sailing shoes, as well as a wide selection of boat shoes from well-known brands such as Sebago deck shoes, Dubarry deck shoes and more.
