Chatham — British Marine Footwear Since 1989
Chatham was founded in 1989 in West Sussex, building boat shoes and deck shoes specifically for the British marine market. The original brief was simple: a deck shoe that worked in cold, wet British sailing conditions, not the warm Mediterranean climate the American originals were designed for. Three decades later, Chatham has expanded into country footwear, slippers, and refined casual leather shoes — all built around the original principles of grip, waterproofing, and weatherability. English Brands stocks the heritage boat shoes and country styles.
What we stock
The Chatham range at English Brands covers boat shoes, deck shoes, and country casuals:
- Sperrin Waterproof Boat Shoes — premium waterproof boat shoes for serious sailing
- Glen Sheepskin Mule Slipper — refined country slippers for the winter months
- Other Chatham marine and casual styles
Why Chatham
Built for British conditions — most boat shoes are designed for warm-water sailing. Chatham was founded specifically to address the cold, wet conditions of British and Northern European sailing. The waterproofing, the lining, and the construction all reflect this.
Genuine marine credentials — Chatham is the boat shoe brand used by serious British sailors, not the brand used by people who own boats. The shoes are built for actual sailing, with non-slip soles that work on wet decks and waterproof construction that handles spray and rain.
Refined enough for town — despite the technical sailing credentials, Chatham boat shoes look at home with chinos and jeans in town. The boat shoe is one of the genuinely classless pieces of casual footwear, and Chatham's versions are particularly well-judged.
Caring for your Chatham
Boat shoes and country casuals need straightforward care:
- Waterproof boat shoes — rinse with fresh water after sailing to remove salt, allow to dry naturally
- Apply leather conditioner every few months to maintain the leather and the waterproofing
- Slippers and country shoes — brush regularly, spot clean as needed
- Avoid machine washing — leather construction throughout, never put in a washing machine
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chatham boat shoes really waterproof? The Sperrin and other waterproof models use a genuinely waterproof leather construction designed to handle marine conditions. They will keep feet dry in spray, rain, and shallow standing water on decks. They are not designed for full immersion.
Where are Chatham shoes made? Chatham is a British brand founded in West Sussex. Production varies by model — some are made in the UK, some in Portugal, some in other European locations. Check the individual product page for manufacturing details.
Are Chatham boat shoes formal? Boat shoes are inherently casual footwear, but Chatham's premium ranges work well with chinos, jeans, and lightweight summer suits. They are not appropriate for formal business or evening wear.
