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.
How to Clean Sperry Top-Siders
Clean your Sperry-Topsiders whenever they're dirty.
(Image: mrfox19/iStock/Getty Images)
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
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.
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
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.