Apparel

[denverd0n]

Originally Posted by jenSails

That is SO excellent to know!! Can Sperry do them or do I need to go to a specialty store?

I assume you are asking about re-soling. Sperry used to do that. Not certain if they do anymore or not. The last time I had mine done was 7-8 years ago and it was by a local shoe repair shop. So last time I had a set done by Sperry was probably neighborhood of 15 years ago.

[David M]

Do they have to look yachtie or not? I use plain old New Balance tennis shoes. I don't feel any difference in traction between New Balance and Sperry shoes.

When they wear out there is no guilt in throwing them away because you only spent 40 bucks on them.

[jenSails]

I'd prefer solid boat shoes- shoes designed with boaters in mind (I.e. Waterproof, traction, style, etc.). I don't mind dropping bills down if they're worth it. Unfortunately (or fortunately) I've spent my entire boat career on barefoot boats. This'll be my first gig that requires shoes- closed toed with high preference. I'd rather not go cheap. Cheap on the water results in more money spent in the long haul.

[David M]

Originally Posted by jenSails

. Cheap on the water results in more money spent in the long haul.

It has not worked that way for me. Been doing this for almost 30 years now. Yachtie shoes do look better though. Probably more acceptable in the yacht club as well.

[jackdale]

Originally Posted by jenSails

I'd prefer solid boat shoes- shoes designed with boaters in mind (I.e. Waterproof, traction, style, etc.).

Shoes really are not waterproof. Boots are, and I treated myself to a pair of Dubarrys. They are waterproof, stylish, have good traction, breathable and expensive - but worth it.

The Dubarry Ultima Leather Sailing Boots

I wear either closed-toe sandals or my boots. I have to wear socks in shoes and the socks just end up getting wet. So I gave up on shoes some time ago.

[David M]

Depends on if you are in a warm enough climate where if your tootsies get wet it does not matter.

Boat shoes have only about a 3 inch "freeboard" at best. So any water that is around is going to go right over the shoes "gunwale" regardless. So it does not matter if the shoe is watertight or not. Traction and comfort is what matters....not watertightness.

As you say Jack, if you want watertightness then you are going to have to wear those high freeboard big clunky boots around.

It's always some sort of tradeoff, isn't it?