However, flip-flops and open-toe sandals are a big injury risk thanks to the number of deck fittings on most yachts – stubbing your toes in a properly serious fashion is all too easy. The sole uses sticky rubber for maximum grip, while the TPU welded overlay along the sides gives excellent lateral support. Although it is understandable to believe that Decathlon’s value for money Tribord sailing kit is ‘too good to be true’, it’s worth knowing that this company prides itself on its thorough testing regime with sailing professionals. It has a water-resistant upper with recycled plastic used for the webbing, plus a comfortable quick-drying lining. The Regatta Shoe has a non-slip rubber outsole that provides excellent grip and is shaped to improve side protection.

This company prides itself on producing the finest leather footwear for outdoor pursuits and its sailing range has always been popular. Other than its good looks and light weight, this shoe offers good grip thanks to Decathlon’s specially developed, diamond patterned, non-marking sole. The leather sock lining makes the shoes comfortable enough to wear with or without socks, even when new, and I experienced no rubbing. The sole is made of non-marking rubber, with deep drainage channels and an effective non-slip pattern. The Java Lady G2 essentially looks the same as previous shoes in the G2 range and retains all its fine qualities, but is made using eco-conscious materials and craftmanship.To achieve this, the interior has been constructed to ensure barefoot comfort by way of low-profile seams and a non-absorbent EVA foam footbed which offers added support without absorbing water.

The Fowey, which is handmade in premium Saddle-coloured leather, retains all the fine qualities expected from this high-end brand including two-eyelet, leather rawhide continuous lacing system, full leather cushioned insole, and non-slip, non-marking rubber sole.

They argue that, if your time off work and on the water is limited, a little extra investment to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible, even when the weather turns nasty, is easily justified.

One of the key selling features is the sole spring poron insole, which promises to be cushioning, supportive, breathable and anti-bacterial. This classic-style boat shoe from US shoe brand Sebago is probably of greatest interest to the active sailor. Gill is a name that’s synonymous with quality when it comes to sailing kit, and its new Pursuit Trainer is a fine example. To help dispel water from inside, the shoe has a quick-drainage system with channels located on the heel and front of the foot, on the side wall of the sole. Its low-cut design allows for plenty of movement around the ankle area, and the open-mesh construction enhances breathability.Helly Hansen is always at the top of the game when it comes to innovation, which is why it’s not surprising that the company’s latest sailing shoe – the Women’s version of the HP Foil V2 – hits the mark in many ways.

The uppers are made from quick-drying 1000D Cordura nylon and the non-marking rubber sole features a durable siped, sticky rubber rand outsole. For a good, solid leather, classic style, canoe-cut, moccasin deck shoe you can’t go far wrong with the Orca Bay. The oiled treatment means even after wearing them in the rain, and while sailing, where they got regularly drenched in spray, the leather cleaned up really well, with no marks or stains and was still soft.

It’s constructed to be long-lasting and made from unique hot-stuff buffed leather conditioned with oils and waxes. Helly Hansen is a giant in the outdoor clothing world and has heaps of experience producing marine gear. Offered in half sizes from 3 to 7, with sizes 8 and 9 also available, the shoe comes in a choice of three distinctive upper/sole colourways to match your sails and your mood!