After years of working to create a slip-resistant boat shoe, Paul Sperry, an avid sailor, had an epiphany one day as he watched his dog run across ice without sliding. The dog’s grooved paws provided grip -- just what the boat shoe soles needed. According to the Sperry website, Sperry carved grooves in the rubber soles of his shoes and, in 1935, the Sperry Top-Sider was born. The shoes became popular among the masses -- men and women alike, whether they’re boaters or not -- and proper care can help prolong the life of your Sperrys.
Things You'll Need
- Bucket
- Cold water
- Laundry detergent
- Shoe brush or toothbrush
- Paper towels
- Leather shoe cleaner, for leather
- Soft cloth
- Leather conditioner, for leather
- Cornmeal, for suede
- Suede brush
- Suede bar
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Canvas Top-Siders
Step 1
Fill a bucket with cold water and detergent.
Step 2
Remove the shoelaces from the shoes.
Step 3
Tap the soles of the shoes together to remove any loose dirt.
Step 4
Use a dry, soft-bristled shoe brush or toothbrush to brush off any dirt from the canvas.
Step 5
Dip the brush in the water and detergent solution, and brush the canvas in a circular pattern until stains are removed, redipping in the detergent solution as needed.
Step 6
Rinse the shoes with clean water until the soap is gone.
Step 7
Place wadded paper towels in the shoes while they dry to help them retain their shape.
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Full-Grain Leather Top-Siders
Step 1
Remove the shoelaces from the shoes.
Step 2
Tap the soles of the shoes together to remove any loose dirt.
Step 3
Use a dry, soft-bristled shoe brush or toothbrush to brush off any dirt from the leather.
Step 4
Apply the leather cleaner to the shoes, and use a soft cloth to gently work it into the leather.
Step 5
Let the shoes dry for 20 minutes, and then polish with a leather conditioner. Let them dry for 24 hours.
Suede Top-Siders
Step 1
Remove the shoelaces from the shoes.
Step 2
Tap the soles of the shoes together to remove any loose dirt.
Step 3
Sprinkle cornmeal onto the suede surface of the shoes. Rub it in gently, and let the shoes sit overnight.
Step 4
Brush the cornmeal off with a suede brush.
Step 5
Use a suede bar to remove any remaining stains, and use the suede brush again to brush the suede back into shape.
Tip
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Before you wear your leather or suede Sperry Top-Siders, use a water-repellent spray that's appropriate for suede or leather to help protect them from the elements.
