Marine Footwear

Finding the right type of sailing footwear is an extremely important decision to make. You have to take into consideration the vessel you are onboard, the weather conditions and the kind of activity you plan on doing, whether it be inshore racing or full blown ocean sailing. Our detailed buying guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about the different styles of footwear in order to make an informed purchase.

Yachting Boots

Sailing wetboots are designed to keep you feet dry and can be either rubber moulded or more technical. A range of fabrics are commonly used, such as Gore-Tex and leather. All of the 100% waterproof marine boots have non marking, slip-resistant soles so they won't cause any damage to the deck of your vessel.

All boots require thermal socks as the rubber does not provide much in the way of warmth. Although technical boots have an insulating lining this is minimal and therefore socks are well advised.

Fitting Guide

Technical footwear is specifically for the yachtsman that spends longer periods at sea.

Go for your regular shoe size as the boots are generous enough to allow for a medium weight sock if required. This footwear is much warmer than a rubber boot so it is not really necessary to go up an extra half size in order to accommodate a thick sock. For example, if you are between a 6 and a 6 ½ you should opt for a size six.

Rubber moulded shoes are ideal for beginners, dinghy sailors and day cruising.

You should always go for your regular shoe size. Sailing boots are generous enough to allow for a medium weight sock if you require one, however, unlike technical boots they are not lined so it is advised to go up one size if you require a heavier sock or you are in between sizes.
As an example, if you are a 9 or 10 you should always go for the size 10. Please note we only supply rubber boots in full UK sizes.

All shoes within our deckwear range have multi directional, slip resistant and non-marking soles. They are developed to give you a sure-footed feeling whether worn on deck or ashore.

Ladies Shoe Sizes

Mens Shoe Sizes

Sailing trainers are becoming increasingly popular with yachtsmen and women as they offer more protection than traditional deck shoes. The soles have extra grip and the inner sole arch offers extra support. Both trainers and deck shoes have a proven track record of success, therefore it is entirely down to personal preference which style you choose.

Cleaning & Conditioning of Marine Footwear

If properly cared for, a good pair of shoes will last for years. The common mistakes which many consumers make is to dry their footwear next to a heat source. This is a bad idea because the high temperature can crack the leather. Storing shoes and boots in damp locations also causes damage. In general, to care for your shoes, there are four steps to follow - cleaning, drying, conditioning and protecting.

• Cleaning
  It is important to brush away surface dirt regularly with a soft brush. After extended use, wash with mild soap and warm water. Be sure to rinse away all soap as it is hydrophilic.
• Drying
  Make sure that you open the shoe fully and remove the footbed (if applicable) and laces. Marine footwear should be dried at room temperature and never exposed to heat.
• Conditioning
  Recommended treatment depends on the construction and materials used in the footwear. Please note that most treatments do alter the colour and appearance of leather and some other materials.
• Protecting
  It is important to restore the water repellence of your footwear and protect against oils and stains.

Dubarry Gore-Tex and other technical boots containing Gore-Tex material require a cleaner and protector specifically suited to the fabric.

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