From the boat to the boardroom

As you climb the corporate ladder, it is important to be outfitted in footwear that will keep your climbing feet from slipping on every rung. Sperry Top-Sider, Lexington, Mass., those renowned makers of boat shoes the last 70 years, has created the Gold Cup Executive Collection that, it claims, will put those other wing tips experts to shame. We do know this, it may look like a dress shoe--an excellent one at that--but it boasts the features and benefits of a luxury, performance boat shoe. In other words, we're enjoying the best of both worlds, as the Gold Cup Executives are fully lined with genuine deerskin and have layered leather and cushion midsole construction; full-length, triple-density foot-bed (featuring memory foam); Vibram nonmarking outsole pads with wave-siping; and water-and-stain resistant leather for easy care. Moreover, genuine handsewn construction ensures durable comfort while each outsole is accented tastefully with Sperry Top-Sider's signature 18K Gold Cup burgee. What's more, the collection contains no metal, so you can breeze through airport security.

We simply couldn't resist the Drop Tassel and Penny loafers ($149.95), both available in chestnut, mahogany, or black. But, heck, we weren't going to stop there, so we checked out the Pilot Collection (choosing the brand new Wallabee in wheat nubuck) and, this being winter, the Figawi Cold Weather Collection (selecting the old reliable Duck in tan/brown). The latter has durable seam-sealed waterproof construction; nonmarking Super-Tack-Rubber outsole combined with Quadro-Grip Wave Siping that provides the ultimate in traction under wet or dry conditions; and an active drainage system and low water absorption materials to make these shoes dry fast; and an Aegis Microbe Shield that kills odor-causing bacteria so you stay fresh on your feet.

The fully-lined Wallabee, meanwhile, feels incredible thanks to its full grain and nubuck leather upper with handsewn detailing and removable, contoured polyurethane footbed with wave comfort system.

For the nearest retailer or more information concerning this comfortable and classy footwear--no wonder, since Sperry Top-Sider is a Stride Rite Corporation--visit www.sperrytopsider.com.

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