Dubarry

Dubarry is an Irish footwear and technical-casual clothing brand, best known for its waterproof, breathable leather sailing boots – including the Galway boot, named after our own city – alongside softer technical pieces that work as well ashore as afloat.

Dubarry’s sailing boots use a waterproof, breathable membrane inside full-grain leather, giving genuine all-day waterproofing with far more comfort and style than a rubber boot, which is why they’ve become as much an everyday country boot as a strictly sailing one – the Galway remains one of the most recognisable styles in the range. Fit is worth trying in person where possible: leather boots break in and mould to the foot over time, so a size that feels snug new usually settles well, but a boot that’s already loose will only get looser. Beyond footwear, Dubarry’s technical-casual clothing (gilets, jackets, knitwear) shares the same weatherproof, understated approach, suited to anyone who wants gear that moves easily from the boat to the pub afterwards.

To keep leather boots performing, clean off salt and mud after use and re-treat periodically with a dedicated leather care and waterproofing product – ordinary shoe polish isn’t a substitute and can affect the breathable membrane.