When Miuccia Prada sent boat shoes down the runway at her SS24 Miu Miu show, the fashion world sat up. Also known as top-siders or deck shoes, the moccasin-like style with 360-degree lacing and a rubber sole has nautical origins thanks to Paul Sperry, who is credited with inventing the non-slip shoe after he fell overboard on his boat in 1935. He patented the sole in 1939, and it became standard-issue for the US Navy’s casual uniform a year later – before eventually making its way onto civilian feet around the world.
Davide Baroncini wears Ghiaia leather Marina shoes, £727 © Isaac Marley Morgan
Today the shoe has become a smart-casual standard combining the comfort of a sneaker with the polish of a loafer. According to online retailer Mr Porter, searches for boat shoes have increased by 120 per cent in the past six months with Brunello Cucinelli, Loro Piana and Zegna among the most in-demand labels, according to buying director Daniel Todd.
Sebago leather Dockside Portland boat shoes, £150
GH Bass oiled suede Mini Lug Hampton
