Boat shoes & sailing boots

Summer/Inland & sheltered coast: lightweight deck shoes with good grip and quick-drying properties. Transition season & wet cockpit: mid-cut shoes or lighter sailing boots with better splash protection. Cold, continuous rain, offshore: waterproof sailing boots with a higher shaft, tight seal, and insulation if needed. For dinghies/regattas, light weight and mobility are often more important; for cruising, comfort and weather protection are key.

A good boat shoe has a non-slip, non-marking sole, stable heel support, and remains grippy even when wet. For sailing boots, additional factors include waterproofing (material/membrane), a tight shaft closure, sturdy seams, and a sole that grips reliably on wet fiberglass/teak. For heavy-duty use, abrasion-resistant reinforcements (toe/heel) are recommended.

Refer to the size chart of the respective brand and consider whether you wear thick sailing socks or insoles. The key is the approach: measure your foot length, choose the type of sock you’ll wear, then select your size according to the chart. Since last shapes vary by brand (narrow/normal/wide), the same EU size may fit differently—even for models that are comparable in terms of intended use to alternatives from other manufacturers (e.g., Helly Hansen, Slam, Compass, Decathlon, Orangemarine). If in doubt between two sizes: for boots, opt for a size larger to allow room for socks; for sporty deck shoes, choose a size that fits snugly.

Water-repellent is often sufficient for splashes, short rain showers, and summer conditions. However, if you’re sailing in the rain for extended periods, have a lot of water in the cockpit, or are sailing in cooler waters, waterproof (e.g., membrane + sealed shaft) is the better choice. Important: Waterproof only means “dry” if the cuff fits properly and the pants (oilskins) are properly tucked over or into the boots.

A soft, non-slip boat sole, clean tread edges, and a dry, grease-free contact area are crucial. Clean the soles regularly (salt/dirt reduces grip) and ensure a secure heel hold—a “floating” shoe slips more easily. On very slippery, wet fiberglass or teak, boots/shoes with pronounced edge stability and good tread help.

After contact with saltwater, rinse with fresh water, let the inside dry thoroughly, and do not “bake” them directly on the heater. Treat leather as needed; clean fabric/membrane according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Check soles and seams regularly. Store boots in a dry place where they retain their shape—this extends their lifespan and waterproofing.

Common causes include a shaft that is too low (water runs in at the top), leaky seams or joints due to abrasion or improper care, as well as condensation during high activity. Check the top of the shaft, how they fit with oilskin pants, and the waterproofing around the toe and heel areas. For membrane boots, proper cleaning and re-waterproofing help prevent the outer material from “soaking up” water.