The Yacht Boot Co has made its name with its revolutionary sailing boots, which combine Neoprene and natural rubber to “make sailing with cold feet a thing of the past.”
Claiming to offer comfort and protection against the elements, even in sub-zero temperatures, the boots (available in eye catching red or blue) are not only easy on the feet, but also on the pocket - at £70 about half the price of the Goretex and leather boots which have set the standard for warmth and comfort.
Now the Yacht Boot Co has taken a similarly radical approach to summer sailing footwear, and come up with Sharx - about halfway between those ubiquitous plastic Crocs and the high-tech trainer-style deck shoes offered by the big sailing brands.
Sharx, described as “extra light and super strong, due to the latest foot-friendly, moulded EVA technology”, are advertised as “the new beach, boat and boardwalk shoe,” combining comfort and performance in a water- and boat-friendly design.
Whether you agree with the manufacturers that the “edgy” design is sporty and cool is a matter of opinion. (I like them. The other half thinks they are ugly.)
But there's no denying that they are comfortable and practical. They have excellent drainage, so it doesn't matter if your feet get wet. And the sole is air-cushioned, non-slip and non-marking.
The Velcro strap makes the shoes quick and easy to get on and off, and also gives them a fully adjustable and secure fit.
There's an arch support, so they should be OK for walking, too (I haven't put this to the test, preferring to keep them clean for use on the boat).
And there's a removable, antimicrobial insole, washable and quick-drying, to keep odour away.
The makers describe Sharx as “the next generation in stylish, functional footwear…. sleek, racy and perfect for just about any situation that requires a pair of comfortable shoes.”
They are available for men and women in unisex sizes from 4 - 13 in unisex colours grey/blue and grey/grey, and in sizes 4 - 8 also in the more “girly” colour schemes grey/lilac and grey/lime. Recommended retail price is £37, and Sharx are distributed by XM Yachting.
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Traditionalists will doubtless prefer to stay with their moccasin-style deckies, but for those who like trainer style boat shoes, Sharx offer a practical, comfortable and relatively inexpensive alternative.
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