I used to wear boat shoes (Sperry or Sebago). I started to have some feet issues and switched to other types of supportive shoes, mostly walking/hiking types (Merrell, Salomon, etc).

My feet have been better and was thinking about getting some boat shoes again - casual, walk about town use. A little more dressy than sneaker / hiking shoes.

I know it's been awhile but I remember when I went to buy boat shoes, it was just a matter of choosing color and size.

I took a look online and I can't even figure out what I used to buy. I get presented with a few hundred - hundred! - choices. The company website is not helpful - I can't figure out the real differences, if any, between models. WTF?

At this point, Sperry and Sebago are out for me. I can't figure out which model to prefer and where they are made.

I'll be looking for some other casual shoe brand model now. Perhaps just stick with Danner or Ecco.

Bass used to make a good boat shoe as dis Timberland (which were the flat out best, until Warren Buffet bought them and trashed the quality).

Both still seem to be made. I'd also check out LL Bean. I've had very good luck with their branded shoes.

But it's been decades since I had a pair.

Sperry's largest brick n'mortar dealer is West Marine, most of their stores carry several varieties of their ubiquitous boat shoe style. Their large-format and flagship locations have a much bigger selection of boat shoes. Much of the differences come down to material quality and color....you want leather or pleather? contrasting stitch lacing and brass eye-lets or, tonal? Vibram or flat siped sole?

quote:

Originally posted by ArtieS:
Bass used to make a good boat shoe as dis Timberland (which were the flat out best, until Warren Buffet bought them and trashed the quality).

When did Buffet buy Timberland? They've been apart of VF since 2011 and before that they were public for about 15 years.

Sperry A/O is the traditional two eye classic. The Gold Cup A/O is the top of the line version… the only one I wear anymore.

The Sperry Original Boat shoe is still made and probably the most original "boat shoe" there is. Its available easily online. You don't have to get it there but its easily available on the Sperry web site. I have probably worn out more of these than most people.
The LLBean Casco bay boat shoe is an alternative that I can vouch for but personally I prefer the Blucher moc in their lineup. Worn out many of them.

Sperry Gold Cup

Sperry Topsiders for me. Thankfully they make them in size 15. They hold up very well.