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Sperry boat shoes are an iconic American shoe. I'm sure you've owned at least one pair (or five) at some point in your life. I had the pleasure of working at Sperry's 5th Avenue flagship location and it was one of the best jobs I've had. During my time there, I learned some interesting facts. Scroll through to learn more about this classic company![Photo: Instagram]
Paul Sperry's Authentic Original boat shoes were born in 1935. He got the idea after watching his dog effortlessly run across ice without slipping.
[Photo: Instagram]
The bottom of every Sperry shoe features wave-like ripples. This is called razor siping and it's specifically designed to squeeze any water out to prevent slipping. Paul Sperry mimicked the bottom of his dog's paw to create this famous razor siping idea. He patented the sole and silhouette of the shoe. Sperry's also have non-marking soles so don't worry about scuffing up any boats!
[Photo: Sperry]
Some Sperry's have pre-tied barrel knot laces. If you like this look and want your boat shoes to have barrel knots, all you have to do is ask a Sperry employee. Pretty much every employee knows how to tie these knots, so they should have no problem tying them for you!
[Photo: Instagram]
All Sperry boat shoes are designed with a 360-degree lacing system. What does this mean? You know how leather stretches and your shoes can feel loose around the ankles? Well, 360-degree lacing is designed to take care of that problem. There is only one shoelace that runs through the shoe, so if the ankles feel loose, all you need to do is pull the laces tight toward the front of the shoe and it will tighten up all around! You'll always have a snug and comfortable fit.
[Photo: Instagram]
During World War II, Sperry Top-Siders were named the official shoe for the US Navy. They were deemed the only safe shoe to wear on boat decks.
[Photo: Instagram]
Between the 1960s and 1970s, the Kennedy family was pictured wearing Sperry Top-Sider while on vacation. The shoes quickly became known as a classic American style and sparked huge popularity.
[Photo: Instagram]
