Sailing boots for dry feet and grip on deck
Sailing boots are waterproof rubber or leather boots with a flexible non-slip sole that leaves no marks on the deck, designed to keep your feet dry in spray, rain and cold weather. The range covers models from Helly Hansen, Musto, Orca Bay and Rouchette for men, women and children, from mid-height rubber versions for inland sailing to premium offshore boots for longer ocean passages. Which sailing boots you choose depends on where you sail, how often, and at what temperature, much like the rest of your sailing clothing.
Which sailing boots fit your sailing area?
| Model | Material | Height | Use | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helly Hansen Nordvik 2 | Rubber, neoprene lining | Mid-height | Inland, day sailing | Budget |
| Rouchette Cap | Rubber | Mid-height | Recreational sailing | Budget |
| Rouchette Regate | Rubber, higher shaft | High | Racing, inland | Mid |
| Orca Bay Solent | Leather | Mid-height | Classic sailing, day trips | Mid |
| Orca Bay Storm | Leather, waterproof lining | High | Cold weather, longer trips | Premium |
| Rouchette Skipper Offshore | Rubber, insulated | High | Offshore, cold weather | Premium |
| Musto Ocean Race / Racer GTX | Leather with waterproof membrane | High | Offshore racing | Premium |
Rule of thumb: for recreational inland sailing, mid-height rubber boots are more than enough and you stay within budget. Racing sailors and offshore sailors more often choose a high shaft with insulated lining to keep feet warm and dry on longer passages in stronger winds.
Non-slip soles and light treads
A good sailing boot has a light-colored sole that leaves no black marks on the deck, plus a fine lamella pattern for grip on wet gelcoat. The Helly Hansen Nordvik and Rouchette Cap use solid rubber; Orca Bay combines leather with a rubber tread; Musto Ocean Race and Ocean Racer GTX have a race-grade sole with a waterproof membrane in the lining. In all cases: rinse off salt and sand briefly after each trip to extend their life.
Frequently asked questions about sailing boots
What is the difference between rubber and leather sailing boots?
Rubber sailing boots like the Helly Hansen Nordvik and Rouchette Cap are fully waterproof thanks to the closed material and therefore ideal in heavy spray or rain. Leather sailing boots like the Orca Bay Storm or Musto Ocean Race are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, but they breathe much better and are more comfortable for long hours on board. The price difference is significant: rubber starts around sixty euros, leather with a membrane sits above two hundred. The choice depends on how often and how long you sail: rubber for occasional use, leather for those on board every week.
Which size sailing boot should I choose?
Take your normal shoe size with at most half a size of margin for a wool or polypropylene sock underneath. Too tight costs you circulation and cold feet on the water; too loose causes blisters and less foot control when tacking. Rubber boots typically fit true to size. For the Musto Ocean Race and Orca Bay Storm: if you are between two sizes, choose the larger one because of the thicker inner lining. Fit them with the actual sock you will wear, and stand for a few minutes on a sloped surface to feel the sole flexibility.
Are there separate sailing boots for men and women?
Yes. The range includes men's sailing boots and women's sailing boots in separate sub-collections, with identical models but different lasts. Women's models have a narrower heel and smaller size range (often 36 to 41); men's models a wider forefoot and larger range (often 41 to 47). Children's models like the Rouchette Kid start at size 25. For unisex sailing boots (Orca Bay Storm and Solent), the men's last is the basis; women typically order one size below their usual shoe size.
How do you maintain sailing boots so they last longer?
Rinse rubber sailing boots briefly with fresh water after each trip to clear salt and sand from the tread, and let them dry upside down at room temperature. Do not place them on a heater, because that hardens the rubber and causes cracks in the shaft. Leather models like the Orca Bay Storm or Musto Ocean Race need periodic impregnation wax or leather conditioner; apply this every two to three months during the season to keep the leather supple. Do not store sailing boots flat under pressure, because that creates creases in the shaft that eventually split open.
In stock? Order before 17:00 and it ships the same day. Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure about the right model or size? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.
