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February 20, 2017 3 min read
Sailing. It’s a fantastic activity for a glorious day on the water, some of us even like it when the weather is not go glorious. A bad day on the water is better than a good day in the office…. But, what types of footwear are the best to use for each type of sailing, and what are the best things to look out for when it comes to buying sailing shoes and footwear?
Size -- It’s a fairly obvious one, but it’s important to note that street shoes and boat shoes are sized slightly differently because they are designed differently. Make sure that you use the size chart provided by whichever footwear company you choose. Also, always read the product description, in some cases we recommend a slightly smaller or larger size than your usual one.
Material -- Leather? Neoprene? Suede? Canvas? Synthetics? While all of these will likely look great on your feet, it’s not always about the look. If it’s all about the look then leather is a common choice. However, it’s also about practicality. For example, synthetic material wicks away water faster than the rest of the fabrics. If you’re getting your feet completely wet then you’ll want to explore neoprene options, either shoes or boots.
Non-slip soles -- Again, fairly obvious, but if you’re walking around on the deck or trapezing the last thing you wanted is to be slipping and sliding all over the place and introducing the risk of falling off. So, ensure that the shoe you go for has great grip and non-slip soles and a product which is designed for your use.
While there are advantages to both, it really depends on the type of sailing you’ll be doing. If you think you’re going to be sailing smaller and wetter boats, then dinghy boots are probably your best bet, they cover more of your feet and legs than regular sailing shoes and boots will be better for hiking. While the same may not apply to sailing shoes which are more likely to be used on yachts. Sailing shoes also have the added benefit that they are lighter and will allow you to move around the deck faster.
Generally-speaking, no. While sandals are an option for recreational sailing, they don’t really provide a whole lot in the grip department. The same is true for regular trainers -- while they’ll do, if you’re serious about sailing, you’re better off getting a purpose-built pair of boots or shoes.
While both types of shoes have their place onboard, for racing, you’re likely going to want dinghy boots. You’re not going to be spending a whole lot time moving around a great surface area while racing. You’re also going to be spending a lot of time coming into contact with the water. Thus, you’re likely going to want more protection for your feet, and while dinghy boots mightn’t make a fashion statement, they will offer you a superior shoe for your race.
When it comes to recreational sailing however, things change dramatically. You’re likely going to value comfort over waterproofness. And thus, the sailing shoe is your obvious choice. Far more comfortable than the sailing boot, and far more stylish, too. You’ve also got a greater variety of choice in terms of materials to choose from -- as sailing shoes, although uniform in style of their design, vary in terms of the material they’re made from. Leather, neoprene, synthetic, suede or canvas? Each provides its own unique style.
For stand up paddle boarding you’re going to want grip to help keep you on the board, especially if you’re battling with waves. If you’re looking for a SUP shoe then we would highly recommend the Zhik ZKG neoprene shoes, high grip, water proof, easily washed and quick drying – what more could you want?
Whether the sailing discipline is recreational or competitive, fast or slow-paced, on-boat or off-boat, having a good pair of sailing boots or shoes might make or break a trip. It’s the difference between having dry, warm feet and wet, cold feet. And nobody likes wet, cold feet!
Someone at the club “borrowed “ one of my Solo’s bungs. I bought two so now I have a spare.
Great to have something that goes over everything if a quick solution is required
had ordered one on amazon before, received the wrong size received the correct size now :)
A simple moulded part of good quality, supplied quickly and well packed.
Turned out that I had ordered the wrong make, my camcleats being Allen not Harken, however by drilling the two fixings holes out by 1mm and filing two small notches they fitted perfectly.
Super helpful company. Attentive, and quick to deliver.
Second time I have use for this purpose. Really easy to attach to alloy mast and so easy and positive to operate.
We have put the boat on this trolley but not yet used it for launch and recovery. First impressions are very good, It fits together well and is super easy to assemble - it's made to put together and take apart fast if you want to put it in a vehicle etc. It is very lightweight which should be a boon launching and recovering the boat - at the same time it looks strong and well made. Being aluminium we won't have a rust problem either. I was impressed how it fits perfectly wherever it supports the boat. So assuming it performs well in use we are pleased we got this. Very helpful guy on the phone and it came quickly so all good, thanks,
Good service, and fast delivery. Very happy with my large amount of assorted short lengths of rope of many different thicknesses for practising my knots.
Good quality rope that can be spliced. Delivered promptly by the Sailing Chandlery.
Excellent sail, ideal for training and comes with a sailbag, Our only drawback was the long delivery time (2-3 weeks) and having to pay €90 in customs charges all due to Brexit! If Sailing Chandlery had a outlet here in the Republic or in Northern Ireland, business could get much better.
Worked a treat
The Puco hatches I bought hatch really well for hatchy things. Speedy service and great value. Hatch-on!
My Topper sails infinitely better with this new sail, , much faster, came with strap and eye at head, had to unpick and remove the strap to work with my halyard loop. David
I have used Sailboats Chandlery before and as before the service was great and the product as per description. A great and speedy service. I highly recommend Sailboats Chandlery.
I took advantage of the offcut sale to try out some of the more expensive ropes for my limited needs. I have not seen this kind of offer before, and I was able to find some lengths and qualities I would not normally worry about. Great service and sensible prices. Customer focused offers. I also plan to use some of the offcuts to improve my whipping and splicing. Does my son know he is being towed down the Thames with a rope that would be on the more expensive yachts with a breaking strength well over what we need, no. Does it matter - actually yes it does :)
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