Salamander - Footwear Observations

Footwear choices are key on a boat, particularly a sailing boat. Obviously it needs to be non marking and comfortable but what other considerations have we found to be valuable on the Atlantic crossing?

Safety is probably the overriding factor. You have to be sure that the footwear has good grip on the deck and companion way whilst under way. This frequently means you're also at an angle or rocking and rolling from side to side. Being sure of your footing is important as there's plenty else to be concerned about.

Footwear might be in the form of boots or shoes too. In cooler weather these will help you keep warm and dry if the weather is wet too. Boots typically come in traditional welly plastic or the more upmarket leather effect Goretex fabric. The latter are breathable and tend to be lighter.

Lighter and breathable are both very desirable for longer passages. Feet that can't breath tend to get rather smelly and unhygienic very quickly. Not pleasant for you or your fellow crew members! Lighter weight helps with baggage weight when travelling home after the trip as well as being comfortable.

Shoes also come in leather uppers or synthetic. I bought some very smart "sailing shoes" with synthetic uppers and boy are they quick to get smelly! I definitely need to wear socks with them to assist with comfort. My good old fashioned docksiders have undoubtedly been the footwear of choice while sailing. Comfortable, pretty much odour free and good deck grip (new soles help with this!)

Now we are motoring however the entire crew has now opted for an alternative not previously mentioned and that of course is bare feet! The ultimate sailing footwear!


Tim - Salamander Tour Manager and Guest Social Media Editor


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