A picture of these classic mocs appears right next to the entry for "Boat Shoes" in the dictionary.(If not, there certainly should be.)Unless you've been asleep for say the last eight decades, you have to acknowledge that these shoes are the undisputed standard that all other boat shoes are judged against. Often credited as the world's first boat shoes, Paul Sperry invented the first generation of these iconic shoes in 1935 to replace the slippery leather-soled shoes boaters of that era were wearing. Today you'd have a hard time finding a more recognizable AND functional pair of shoes. And when you aren't on a boat, they add a nautical feel when matched up with jeans, chinos, walking shorts, polos and oxfords. See below for the low-down on the very heart and sole of these Authentic Originals.The Uppers: Genuine all-leather uppers for years of wear that just gets more comfortable with age. Their minimal pattern requires less piecing. Translation: Fewer seams and more comfort against your feet. The kicker (that stitched roll around the back of your heel) also helps them keep their proper shape.Genuine Handsewn Tru-Moc Construction: Why is this important In a word, comfort. By hand fitting the leather to a last (a shoe form) and then hand stitching it with needles and waxed thread, you get a timeless moccasin upper that fits true to size and width. Moccasin construction also provides more flexibility so it conforms to your feet, not the other way around. The result is a pair of shoes that are so comfortable you'll want to wear them even when you're just wishing you're on a boat.The Lacing: A feature Sperry shoes are known for—their 360 Lacing System with rust proof eyelets. Unlike lesser boat shoes, Sperry provides for a secure fit all the way around your feet, not just across your insteps. Why does that matter Once your shoes get wet (and they will get wet unless your boating only involves cruise ships or mega yachts), they will have a tendency to separate themselves from you if they aren't snugged down tight around the outside of your feet. The rawhide skip lacing also improves overall stability since it will keep your shoes from slipping around on your feet.Full Active Comfort System: Sometimes the little things make all the difference. The right amount of padding in the right place