About Us
About Us
At Sperry we believe in the power and emotional connection to water, to free the mind, ignite the imagination and soothe the human spirit. Founded in 1935, Paul Sperry invented the world’s first non-slip sole that was the bedrock for the original boat shoe. From mastering the comfort and safety of a sought-after deck shoe, to the art of preppy fashion, today we continue to design coastal-inspired casual-wear anchored in performance innovation, style and quality craftsmanship. Our expertise is 90 years in the making, and it all started with a man’s love for the open ocean, his boat and his dog…
Where it all began
In 1935 Paul Sperry falls overboard on his boat. Inspired by his cocker spaniel’s footpads, he then creates the worlds first ever non-slip deck shoe. In 1939 Sperry patents his non-slip sole, and in 1940 The United States names Sperry the standard issued shoe for the US Navy casual uniform.
Our Story Continues
Over the 60s, 70s and 80s Sperry begins to expand the horizons of sailing and starts to strike a balance between sport performance and understated leisure menswear. In the 1960s icons like JFK, Paul Newman and Mr. Rogers are recognized with wearing Sperry’s and popularize this everyday menswear. In 1980 Lisa Birnbach names Sperry an icon of prep style under “dressing the part” in the Preppy Handbook. By 1987 Sperry becomes the official footwear for the US sailing team during the historic reclaiming of America’s Cup.
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