Sailing Boots

Gill and Zhik cover the majority of this collection, with Sola rounding out the range at the more accessible end. Between these brands, they make sailing boots and sailing shoes for most types of sailing, from club dinghy racing to offshore keelboat work, and most of the footwear questions sailors have are answered somewhere in the range.

Choosing the Right Sailing Boots for Your Discipline

The right sailing footwear depends almost entirely on how you sail.

Offshore and keelboat sailors need a tall, fully waterproof boot that keeps feet dry through spray and green water. The Zhik Seaboot 700 is the serious end of that category, with eVent waterproof breathable technology and a Michelin outsole built for wet and demanding conditions. Gill sailing boots cover similar ground with a slightly different fit profile, and both are worth looking at if you spend time on the water in exposed conditions.

Dinghy sailors generally do better with a high cut boot or neoprene option that allows ankle movement for trapeze work and active footwork. The Zhik Performance High Cut Boot suits ILCA and general dinghy racing where ankle support and hiking grip matter. If you want a lower profile for faster footwork, the Zhik Performance Ankle Boot gives you the same deck grip with more freedom around the joint. For sailors who want a barefoot feel and maximum connection with the boat, the Zhik Hiking X Boot is the hiking-specific option in the 2026 range.

For warmer conditions or club days where bulk is the main concern, sailing deck shoes and sailing shoes give you the grip you need without the weight of a full boot. Neoprene socks are worth adding to any dinghy boot setup as they extend the effective warmth of a thinner boot, particularly useful for early season racing when the water temperature is still low.

Ladies sailing boots and mens sailing boots are stocked across the Zhik and Gill ranges, with size guides on each product page.

Shop Similar Collections: Sailing Gloves | Sailing Wetsuits | Waterproof Tops | Drysuits | Thermal Layers | Rash Vests | Headwear

Sailing Boots FAQs

What makes sailing boots different from regular waterproof boots?
Sailing boots use non-slip rubber outsoles designed for wet, smooth deck surfaces rather than land terrain. The soles are low-profile to reduce trip hazards on a moving boat, and the construction handles repeated immersion in a way that standard waterproof boots aren't built for.

Are tall or ankle sailing boots better for dinghy sailing?
Ankle boots and high-cut dinghy boots generally suit dinghy sailing better than tall boots because they allow the ankle mobility needed for trapeze work and active cockpit footwork. Tall sailing wellies suit offshore and keelboat sailing where spray protection matters more than range of movement.

What are the best sailing boots for dinghy sailing?
For ILCA and general dinghy racing, the Zhik Performance High Cut Boot and Zhik Hiking X Boot are the most popular options because they combine ankle support and deck grip with enough flexibility for a full race day. The best dinghy boot is the one that matches your class, your typical conditions, and whether you prioritise support or freedom of movement.

What are the best sailing shoes for casual and club sailing?
Deck shoes and sailing shoes from Gill work well for club days and keelboat sailing where you want grip without the bulk of a full boot. If you're racing dinghies in warmer conditions, a lighter sailing shoe or neoprene option is worth considering over a heavier boot.

How should sailing boots fit?
Sailing boots should fit you snugly, with a neoprene or wool sock underneath if needed. A boot that's too loose slides on a wet deck; one that's too tight restricts circulation in cold water.

How do I clean sailing boots?
Rinse sailing boots  with fresh water after every sail to remove salt, which accelerates material breakdown over time. For a deeper clean, a soft brush with mild soap handles most dirt without damaging the rubber or neoprene. Avoid machine washing.

How do I dry sailing boots and stop them smelling?
Turn sailing boots upside down after rinsing and let them dry naturally away from direct heat. Boot dryers work well if you're sailing regularly in cold conditions. To prevent smell, a specialist neoprene cleaner or a diluted white vinegar rinse after sailing helps, and letting the boot dry fully between sessions makes the biggest difference.