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The Boat Shoes that Changed my Mind

by Ryan on August 1, 2011 · 13 comments

“Boat shoes” have been a staple for a while now, but I’ve opted out thus far because I’m not a fan of how the shoestrings dangle all over the place. That is, until I saw the Sperry Top-Sider for J.Crew (navy) over the weekend.

What I liked about this particular pair is that you don’t have any shoestrings to deal with, and they seem to have a slightly different color than the standard blue Top-Sider. The shoestrings are part of the shoe, but not in such a way that you tie them. I tried to find my size at a couple different J.Crew stores in Manhattan and came up empty handed at both.

Dang!

Southstreet Seaport J.Crew

But then, suddenly, on Sunday afternoon I remembered that there’s another J.Crew at Southstreet Seaport, which is just a couple blocks from where I live in the Financial District.

Off I went to continue my shoe hunt.

Upon arriving to the store I asked the clerk if they had my size in the Top-Sider , but she gave me somewhat of a, “I hate to tell you this, but we don’t” looks. After a little due diligence she searched and suddenly let out a, “Oh my gosh, look, we have one last size 9!”

She then told me that the Sperry Top-Sider for J.Crew has been an extremely popular shoe and is on backorder, and that, “this is a sign – you have to get these shoes!”

Sold.

During our conversation I said, “I always forget this J.Crew is at the Seaport.” She then said, “Did you know that this store was the first J.Crew store ever?” I had no clue, but it’s a nifty little fact.

The store has a pretty cool setup and there’s somewhat of a loft shopping area on the second floor of the men’s side. It’s probably one of the more comfortable feeling J.Crew stores I’ve ever been in. Check it out if you’re ever in the area.

Anyway, I finally got my hands on the Sperry Top-Sider for J.Crew and highly suggest that you pick a pair up. They have a great look, are comfortable, don’t have the standard shoestring issue (that I think looks redonkulous) and will be something you can wear for several more months.

Click here to pick up the Sperry Top-Sider for J.Crew in navy or brown for $98.

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About the Author

Ryan is a southern guy now living in New York City. From business to casual, his style covers a broad spectrum. He loves a great suit, but also appreciates the freedom of an un-tucked shirt and letting loose.

  • http://stayinthelines.blogspot.com Jaclyn

    I can’t believe you found the first J.Crew store! I love how boat shoes look, but your right, the floppy laces are always a little annoying. Love how these are tucked in for easy slipping on and off.

    • Ryan

      Jaclyn, I’d have never known it had the store clerk not mentioned it. Maybe they have it listed in the store somewhere, but I didn’t notice it. Cool little factoid. Ah! I should make a Foursquare update with the tip. :)

  • Kionon

    I have this color/materia combinationl Sperry (but with regular laces). It’s soft and supple (but made in Indonesia). I wore it sailing in Sydney, and it’s a great deck shoe. If you care, you can see my most recent post wearing them here: http://kyotomaiko.blogspot.com/2011/07/lazy-saturday-in-south.html

    • Ryan

      I think you’d like the no lace version – very clean lined.

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  • Anonymous

    Wow these are absolutely perfect! 

    XoXoPlamihttp://fashion-thrill.blogspot.com/

    • Ryan

      Glad you like them!

  • http://smalltownbigwardrobe.wordpress.com/ Catherine

    My Midwestern guy friends are so not fashion-forward but they love boat shoes. I think it’s the lazy factor – no laces to tie. I love boat shoes on guys. Hell, if you were my boyfriend, I would totally steal these for myself! :)

    • Ryan

      Most of the options have shoestrings and require you to tie them… which is why I liked this pair so much. It’s not because I’m lazy, not at all. I’m just more of a fan of the look… Thanks so much for stopping by!

  • Livingdoll96

    I’ve seen these all over the place. Glad you found some you like! http://thearcenciel.blogspot.com/

  • http://tetrismagic.blogspot.com Julian

    I love boat shoes, but I do find tying them annoying. These are super cool!

  • http://www.yournativeheart.blogspot.com your native heart

    wish we had j crew where i am. my boyfriend would’ve been all over those top-siders

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