You could make an argument that if it weren’t for Sperry’s dedication to quality, the boat shoe might have ceased to exist long ago. The New England outfit is not just the inventor of top-siders, which it introduced back in the 1930s, but has become synonymous with the style of footwear. Even older are chukka boots, which date back several centuries, although they found popularity in casual menswear in the 1940s.
There aren’t many brands Sperry could have teamed up with to help it evolve either of these styles, but it chose wisely in partnering with Herschel Supply Co. The Canadian bag experts outfitted two of the shoemaker’s most popular models with its own design ethos, inspired by the Pacific Northwest, each shoe is available in two variants: navy blue and brown.
Constructed with premium full-grain leather, the shoes are embossed with Herschel’s trademark Woodland Camo print. For grip, the Chukkas have a Vibram rubber lug sole for both traction and comfort, while the Boat Shoe comes equipped with Sperry’s proprietary Razor-Cut Wave-Siping for treading on wetter surfaces. Herschel’s signature red and white striped liner can be seen accenting the silhouettes, as can the heel pulls on the back, which are designed after the brand’s backpack straps. The prusik cord laces are threaded through rust-proof eyelets for extra durability and longevity no matter what climates you frequent.
Ready for land or sea, Sperry and Herschel’s new collection ensures that you’ll be prepared for any adventure. The Boat Shoe and the Chukka Boot are available on both companies’ online stores for $155 and $225, respectively.
