Aaron Marino of alpha m. provides a bit of history about the boat shoe by Sperry as well as explores different options.
An avid boater in 1935 Connecticut, Sperry designed the non-slip sloe modeled after his Cocker Spaniel’s paw. The white sole is standard with an upper leather.
Aaron visits a retail store to display options. Besides the traditional leather topsider, canvas is another option for summer and spring. Sperry has also designed some more traditional shoes to reach men who don’t want to wear boat shoes: driving mocs, flip flops, penny loafers, and semi dress shoes.
Other companies have made their version of them as well, such as Polo and Steve Madden. Topsiders have become increasingly popular with the younger guys. Men can wear with jeans, khakis, and shorts.