Performance Footwear Design: Sperry

Women’s 7 seas sport

The 7 Seas Sport was a collaborative design, specifically crafted for use on and around the sea. Kris Couture designed the outsole and men’s styles, while I designed the women's-specific upper, featuring cutouts in the quarter panel inspired by the graphic of overlapping sailboat sails in the distance. The design utilized water-repelling materials for quick drying and incorporated a MocFit construction that cradled the foot, providing a secure and comfortable fit.

Sperry sponsored the America’s Cup, which provided me with the unique opportunity to engage with athletes and understand their sailing shoe needs firsthand.

(INSPIRATION, UPPER, COLOR & MATERIAL DESIGN)

I joined Pangea, a plastic pollution research sailing ship, to conduct research, participate in beach cleanups, and test the 7 Seas sailing shoes during a week-long sailing journey around Antigua. My passion for sustainable design led me to this incredible opportunity to collaborate with professional sailors and researchers. Together, we explored the impact of plastic pollution on our oceans and discussed strategies to address these critical environmental issues.

Men’s + Women’s Cutwater deck boot

In collaboration with Sean McDowell, we created a rugged, versatile, and effortlessly functional rubber boot designed for performance on deck and quick rinsing between adventures. This boot offers reliable traction and waterproof protection in maritime conditions, making it an essential companion for any outdoor enthusiast.

(UPPER, FOXING, & COLOR DESIGN)

Women’s h2O mooring

Inspired by sailing and crafted for the sea, the outsole featured drainage holes for rapid water release and was designed to prevent punctures. Rubber wrapped around the toe, heel, and forefoot for added durability. The midsole and outsole lines drew inspiration from water waves. Molded Wave-Siping™ on the non-marking rubber outsoles ensured secure footing without scuffing floors, whether on the boat deck or back deck. Quick-dry mesh uppers and a removable EVA foam footbed provided all-day comfort.

(INSPIRATION, OUTSOLE, UPPER, COLOR & MATERIAL DESIGN)

Men’s seamount boot

Classic Sperry styles, the duck boot and boat shoe, were redesigned to keep feet warm and dry in rain, snow, and high seas. The outsole was engineered for the elements, featuring raised teeth in the toe and heel to cut through snow, sipped pods for traction, a toe wrap for durability, and a flared heel for stability. The duck boot had a molded waterproof leather shell, Thinsulate lining and a seam-sealed upper. Rawhide laces resisted water and prevented snow collection.

(OUTSOLE, UPPER, COLOR & MATERIAL DESIGN)