Deck Shoes vs Boat Shoes

Summer has arrived, and long sunny days call for footwear that is lightweight and breathable yet stylish. If you’re looking for the perfect summer shoe, the classic deck shoe is just the answer! They are smart-casual shoes, typically made of leather, that are practical and easy to wear. They’re ideal for the summer weather: slip them on with a pair of shorts and a t-shirt for an easy, go-to outfit that has become a staple in the warmer months.

Originally designed for sailing and yachting, deck shoes are synonymous with coastal activities. But the popularity of deck shoes has extended beyond their nautical origins, and the practical design has made them firm favourites with anyone who enjoys the outdoors.

Deck shoes are also known as boat shoes, and you may be wondering what the difference is. We’ll explore what boat shoes and deck shoes are and the features that create this classic summer shoe.

What are deck shoes?

The first deck shoe was invented in the 1930s by Paul Sperry of New Haven, Connecticut, who allegedly fell overboard whilst sailing around Long Island. After seeing his dog run across the ice with ease, Sperry was inspired by the features of the dog’s paws that ensured traction on the slippery surface. He cut thin slits into the rubber soles of his shoes to create a sole that would provide grip even in wet conditions.

The original Sperry ‘Top-Sider’ had a white, non-marking sole, and the design evolved to include practical features such as the all-around lacing system and durable topstitching. These features combined to create the ultimate non-slip shoe for sailors, and many of the same features are still used in any classic deck shoe design today.

Typically, the shoes feature feature:

• Oiled leather uppers for water repellency
• A non-marking rubber sole with thin zig-zag grooves for grip on wet surfaces
• An all-around lacing system that cinches the shoe’s collar around the ankle for better security on the foot
• A moc toe construction with top stitching for durability
• Unlined uppers for suppleness and lightweight feel

The Le Chameau Galion Nubuck deck shoes, available for both men and women, are modern examples of deck shoes that have perfected the classic style. These shoes are constructed from full grain, salt-water resistant leather and showcase a Sperry branded siped sole for superior grip and flex.

Likewise, the Chatham G2 range of deck shoes, including the men's Chatham Deck II G2 deck shoe and women’s Chatham Deck G2boat shoes, are notable examples of timeless design. Constructed from oil-waxed leather for durability along with razor-cut rubber soles for the signature deck shoe grip, they’re designed to be some of the most durable deck shoes on the market today.

What is the difference between deck shoes and boat shoes?

Deck shoes and boat shoes are just different names for the same style of shoe. The names are used interchangeably to refer to the same design of casual leather shoe that is typically worn in the summer months.

Why are they called boat shoes?

Quite simply, boat shoes were designed to be worn on boats! The thin grooved design of the rubber sole helped sailors maintain grip on a wet boat deck, and the oiled leather upper created a shoe that was durable and resistant against saltwater. The lightweight nature and comfortable fit helped make boat shoes popular beyond their nautical origins.

You can read more about deck shoes in our blog on how to style deck shoes and find out how to clean your decks in our simple step-by-step guide. If you’d like more ideas and inspiration, head to the women’s or men’s deck shoe categories on our website or give us a call at 01432 377089.