Deck boat shoes

Dubarry footwear hold a premier position in the marine footwear market place and at premium prices.

Fit or Fashion?

Dubarry's marketing promotes this new season deck shoe as a ... "fashionable, sturdy trainer style deck shoe offering any sailor the flexibility to wear on or off the water". .

Value for Money?If I had not had the opportunity I would never have believed that by paying a little extra it would have resulted in such a remarkable level of comfort and sure footed safety when onboard.

Specification

The Dubarry Footwear Racer is made from high quality, water resistant Dry Fast - Dry Soft™ breathable nubuck leather with a hard wearing mesh material on the outside of the shoe for longevity. The Racer’s technical features include a Non Slip – Non Marking™ rubber protective toe guard, and a Non Slip – Non Marking™ durable rubber outsole. A lightweight EVA midsole ensures unparalleled underfoot comfort and shock absorbency, making it the ideal lightweight durable deck shoe for active sailors.

In addition an odour prevention lining, and full-length removable, washable, cushioned insole ensures that the Racer is low maintenance footwear to care for. The Racer comes in stone, camel and ice and the rubberised logo and branded lace tips give the Racer its distinctive Dubarry appearance. It is available in European sizes 40-48.

Sebago shoes Sailor 46

A sturdy pair of shoes for when carting heavy gear around, plus plenty of protection afloat and ashore. Of course, they have to look good, too!

The laces free off readily and they are easy to put on. Being in the full trainer style they offer loads of support at the ankle and sides, plus good protection right round too. The thick, springy soles ensure they are comfortable over all manner of terrain.

Good depth of sole means the upper is well clear of the water, but this proved watertight in any case although you have to be wary of the small breather holes half way up. After a dunk they took some time to dry, but then there is plenty of substance to these shoes.

Slip or grip? The tactile soles do a good job even on shiny surfaces, which can be worse than wet ones.

Colours: Various

Sizes: Complete range for men and women

Quayside shoes "Challenger"

Easy to get on and off as the laces pull through easily, they offer good support around the ankle, just like proper trainers. There is decent protection around the toe, which is important when clambering between boats (as there is always something to stub your toe on!). These are definitely very comfortable and the sole is well cushioned, so theyre fine for walking in, too.

Water runs off the surface but it does enter around the laces apart from that, the feet remain dry. On giving them a full dunk they dried out again very quickly.

Grip or slip? Very good you feel sure-footed and overall the shoe gives good support again, an important factor when nipping quickly between boats.

Colours: Navy or green

Sizes: 4-13

Good value and, because they look like normal trainers, theyre as suitable for going ashore for supplies as they are for a day afloat.