Sperry
Sperry, an iconic American brand, introduced the boat shoe in 1935, designed by Paul Sperry. The Top-Siders were the first of their kind to penetrate both the boating and footwear markets, while the CVOs were crafted with sailing in mind, featuring a quick-drying cotton canvas upper and a white rubber sole to prevent deck scuffing and enhance traction. Following their initial success among yacht club members, Sperry sneakers gained widespread popularity, eventually becoming the official footwear of the U.S. Navy. This trend extended beyond maritime enthusiasts, as CVOs were embraced by Ivy League students in New Haven, Connecticut, and surfers in Venice Beach, California.