These are the high tech boat shoes to have in 2024
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The boat shoe has for years been a great classic of “smart-casual” clothing, that is, that middle ground between elegant and sporty that allows one to dress appropriately in more or less any situation. To the classic moccasin we are used to imagining, however, much more technical and high-performance footwear has been added over the years, with materials and technologies of the highest level. These shoes are lightweight, comfortable, and very close-fitting models with non-slip non-marking soles (i.e., that do not leave marks on surfaces) and quick-drying materials that slide away any water that may accumulate inside.
Between leather and the latest materials
Popular models include both true racing shoes, which provide grip and stability even in extreme wet conditions, and more classic shoes that you can safely wear to dinner at the dock or harbor.
Then there are them: the Crocs. Perhaps not everyone knows that the world’s most famous “plastic clogs” first peeped out at the 2002 Fort Lauderdale boat show. The presentation was a hit, so much so that they sold more than 1,000 pairs at the booth during the three-day fair. Today Crocs has become a publicly traded global giant that has sold more than 300 million pairs worldwide, and their shoes are still among the most popular among boaters. They do not let water accumulate thanks to the holes, have a non-slip sole, and can be worn either as “slippers” or using the back strap. There are those who dislike them for their design, which is certainly more devoted to functionality than aesthetics, but there is no doubt that they are among the most popular shoes aboard sailboats halfway around the world.
Speaking instead of shoes prized for their looks, one cannot fail to mention Prada’s sneakers presented in 1997 on the occasion of the first challenge (which would take place in 2000) to the America’s Cup. These leather shoes were designed for the Luna Rossa crew, but they soon became iconic, and are still on sale today-always the same-in the Italian brand’s collection. It was the first example, almost thirty years ago, of a high-fashion sports shoe that was therefore comfortable but also elegant: perfect for wearing even on formal occasions. It was a trend that would be followed in subsequent years by all the other major brands, and today it is a custom to which we are all accustomed.
But among the models we offer you find shoes for all budgets, from high fashion, precisely, to flip-flops: the footwear that can never be missing aboard any boat.
Foil AC-37 Low – Helly Hansen
Ultra-lightweight sailing shoe with non-slip rubber sole and EVA midsole to absorb shock and impact, while the upper is waxed canvas. Despite the innovative materials, they do not have an overly technical look, so they are perfect to wear even once you get off the boat.
High-tech boat shoes – Dynamic Pro II – Musto
A shoe designed to support the foot and keep it firmly in place at all times, thanks to the elastic cords that keep the tongue in place at all times. This, combined with the grippy sole, allows the wearer to move safely even in wet conditions.
Boat Shoes. Spider Shoes Wave – Usail
From one of the most important footwear districts in the world – the Marche region – comes USail’s Spider Shoes Wave. Lightweight (269 grams) and quick-drying, they are famous for their ultragrip tread sole that prevents slipping on smooth and wet surfaces.
Palermo Trainer – Dubarry
The Irish manufacturer famous for its boots actually has a wide selection of clothing and other boat footwear. Despite using a lightweight, quick-drying canvas, the shoes are reinforced at critical points, such as the toes, to ensure protection for the wearer.
www.tomasoni.it – www.dubarry.com
High-tech boat shoes – Pro Sailing Shoes – Slam
Slam’s return to high-end garments is also evidenced by products like this shoe. To make the most critical layer, that of the sole, a super-specialized Italian company-Vibram-was chosen to come up with a no-marking non-slip solution.
Boat Shoes 500 LOW Leather – Decathlon
A boat shoe with a look quite different from what we are used to. It looks like a city sneaker, and is actually perfect for everyday wear as well. However, the non-marking sole and water-sliding texture also make it perfect for boat use.
T-New Total Grip – SeaStorm
SeaStorm’s shoe is designed for prolonged use in extreme conditions. The sole is slip-resistant while gel insole and reinforcements on the toe and heel provide comfort and stability to the fit, even when the shoes are wet.
Classic Clog – Crocs
The first worldwide appearance of Crocs occurred in 2002 at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. Designed for life on a boat, made of a special breathable, waterproof and non-slip resin, with the famous “holes” to let the water out and the classic ergonomic shape crowned by the back strap.
Hitch Logo Sneaker – North Sails
Shoes designed for both boating, running and everyday use. The sporty yet understated and elegant look-with nautical references in the laces and upper area-makes these shoes the perfect ally in any situation.
www.yib.moda – www.northsails.com
Top Nautical – Havaianas
Let’s face it, often the most worn footwear in summer is just that: flip-flops. Also useful on a boat because you slip them on in a second, even once you get out of the tender, and they take up no space. These with sailor-style graphics are perfect to keep on board at all times.
Boat shoes – Plastimo Sport – FNI
Sports shoes designed to be super durable and comfortable. They are solid and soft at the same time, thanks to the upper made of pull-up cowhide leather and the cowhide-lined interior. The insole is made of breathable antibacterial fabric while the sole is made of high-grip rubber.
www.forniturenauticheitaliane.oltrevela.com
Bioat Shoes: Hurricane – Sebago
The first true boat sneaker ever created by Sebago has resurfaced, rediscovering its original sketches, and has been repurposed almost identically by the brand. The upper is full-grain grained leather, with details on the toe cap and heel finished in suede, while the tread is non-slip rubber.
Boat shoes – America’s Cup Sneaker – Prada
For almost thirty years, these shoes have been ever-present in the collections that Prada presents to the public each season, ever since Patrizio Bertelli decided to aim for the Cup sifda. Stylish and comfortable, in leather and canvas with red Linea Rossa details, they are a timeless classic that is often seen worn around town and on the docks.
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