On a hot sunny day, what better thought than a trip to the seaside for a scoop of ice cream, some fresh fish and chips and a stroll across the sand. As idyllic as it seems, we know that travelling from the countryside to the coast isn’t always easy. If you’re like us and your home is quite a distance from the nearest beach, bundling children, dogs, windbreaks, picnic blankets, and all-weather essentials into the car while hoping the sun stays out for the flip-flops can sometimes be a struggle! That’s why, whether it’s a seaside escape, a trip to the village, picnicking in the fields, or dining at your local country pub, your summer footwear shouldn’t add to your list of things to think about. It should be versatile, reliable, and stylish, regardless of where a sunny summer day takes you. So, join us as we introduce the dependable deck shoe. With their nautical heritage, practicality, and smart-casual charm, we’re here to guide you through why no country wardrobe is quite complete without them.
Deck Shoes: A Quick History Lesson
As suggested by the name, deck shoes were originally designed for sailors - although the inspiration was actually less human, more canine! In 1935, after observing how the grooves on his dog’s paws enabled him to grip the wet and slippery deck, avid sailor Paul Sperry similarly tested the method by cutting grooves into the bottom of his own shoes, and the rest is history! The first deck shoes were born, and the innovative idea quickly became popular amongst sailors for their newfound practicality, allowing them to handle the slick deck surfaces with ease.
Fast-forward to today, and this same idea remains a staple of the deck shoe, with most designs incorporating non-slip rubber soles and durable leather uppers. Combined with the signature hand-stitched finish and classic colours like tan, brown, and navy, the deck shoe is instantly recognisable from the coast to the countryside today, with that laid-back look-effortless, practical, and always in style.
From Deck to Dry Land: A Place in Country Style
So, with a beginning at sea, how have deck shoes become a favourite fixture in the country clothing wardrobe?
Despite a surge in popularity in the 1980s deck shoe trend, deck shoes have merged into British country style to become a sought-after staple. From the outset, they deliver the same attention to detail, quality and craftsmanship that traditional country clothing is renowned for, with practicality that offers a welcome break from boots on those hot summer days! Slip on and no fuss, a pair of deck shoes is smart enough for a country show and comfy enough for a day on your feet. Dress them up with chinos and a linen shirt for a garden party, add a gilet and shorts for a more casual dog walk, or even style them with a summer dress for that effortlessly put-together look- whatever your style, for life in the countryside, the deck shoe has sailed beyond the boating community, and fit right in amongst the fields too.
Our Deck Shoe Spotlight
In this section, we’re shining a light on some of our favourite deck shoe brands and styles for this summer, so whether you’re new to deck shoes or looking to upgrade, here’s our pick to take you from town to coast in classic country style:
Orca Bay
Since 2007, Orca Bay deck shoes have been handcrafted with impeccable attention to detail, fantastic comfort, and stylish good looks.
Orca Bay Creek Deck Shoes
A fan favourite: with their high-quality, salt-resistant leather and razor-cut, non-slip, non-marking soles, these sleek and stylish Creek Deck Shoes provide the perfect blend of flexibility and versatility, and are available in sizes for both men and women.
Orca Bay Oakland Deck Shoes
If you’re looking for more colour, the Oakland Deck Shoes offer a snug fit and exceptional flexibility in two-tone oiled nubuck and pull-up leathers. Choose from Navy and Tan or Sand and Navy for your favourite comfy colour combination.
Chatham
A trusted name in the deck shoe business, Chatham is committed to creating classic sailing and country footwear with a British style and exceptional quality.
The Deck II G2 Premium Men’s Leather Boat Shoe
A bestseller in the G2 range, the unrivalled British-designed lace-up boat shoe is famed for its long-lasting, high-quality design. Crafted from premium leather with contrast tan lacing and an enhanced grip sole, the Deck II moccasin is made to be both durable for the day and dressed up for the night.
Chatham Women’s Pulau Premium Leather Tassel Loafers
A new arrival to the sport collection, the Pulau Loafers offer a feminine take on the traditional summer deck shoe. Low fronted and lightweight, they feature performance cushioning for maximum comfort and shock absorption. Add contrast stitching and their jaunty tassel detailing, and the Pulau Loafers are the perfect blend of classic charm and all-day comfort.
Dubarry
A well-known name in country wear, alongside their classic boots collection, Dubarry is also widely regarded for their fantastic, award-winning deck shoes.
Dubarry Men’s Port Deck Shoes
Taking the form of a classic two-eyelet moccasin, the Dubarry Port Deck Soes are an all-round country crowd pleaser.
Or why not try the new Oceania Two-Eye tie deck style, exceptionally lightweight, flexible, and durable, with a unique bottom pattern that eliminates aquaplaning on wet surfaces (sailor Paul would be impressed!)
Dubarry Coral Dubarrylite Women’s Slip-on Deck Shoes
From deck to dry land, these deck shoes will put a spring in your step. Shock-absorbing, with leather laces that give a custom fit on the top line and five colour options available, you can tailor your individual look and stay comfortably stylish throughout the season with a pair of Coral Dubarrylite Slip-on Deck Shoes.
The Dependable Deck Shoe: Today’s Country Shoe Staple
Deck shoes might have started life at sea, but they’ve found a well-earned place in the countryside too. Whether you're heading to a village fête, off to the beach, or just enjoying a stroll by the lake, deck shoes are ready to take you there - in comfort and in style. With their timeless appeal, durable craftsmanship, and easy-to-style versatility, deck shoes are more than just a seasonal trend - they’re an investment in a country wardrobe staple.
Looking to sail your way to some new summer deck shoes? You can find the complete range here, with the full selection from Chatham, Orca Bay, and Dubarry-perfect for your next trip to the coast or weekends in the country!
About the Author
Sarah Holland
With her extensive firsthand experience of farm life and a keen eye for quality, Sarah Holland's advice on women's country clothing reflects her genuine appreciation for the joys and comfort of rural living. Whether it's a smart tweed jacket for a formal occasion or durable wellies for muddy walks, she knows what works for life in the countryside. Sarah loves sharing her knowledge and insights to help others discover the perfect attire for their outdoor lifestyle.
