The Sperry takeover was unquestionable in 2024, and the brand is looking to continue its dominance in the year to come. Recently, the brand tapped Tampa Bay menswear boutique Fresh Rags to reimagine its treasured Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat shoe. The Sperry x Fresh Rags Pirates in Paradise capsule features two limited-edition, unisex styles that bring an edgy vibe to a classic style.
The Sperry x Fresh Rags Gulfstar A/O 2-Eye is constructed with an off-black, synthetic stingray embossed leather stitched together with a soft suede upper. The midsole is protected with mudguard paneling attached to a Vibram sawtooth outsole. A traditional serape design lines the shoe’s inner. The Gulfstar is complete with custom finished touches, including cross-stitched panels, tortoise shell eyelets, a Jolly Roger woven label concealing a debossed Fresh Rags and Sperry lockup, and gold doubloon stamped on the heel counter.
“We had a lot of fun designing Pirates in Paradise. We were really inspired by the idea of creating a narrative that nods to our home, Tampa Bay, in a cheeky way. The story was translated through meticulous design details. From the tortoise shell eyelets to custom branded doubloons, every element of these shoes have been personalized according to our vision.”
—Fresh Rags founder Michael Bickel
Shoe of the Week: Sperry x Fresh Rags Gulfstar Boat Shoe Specs
- Upper: Stingray embossed leather
- Sole: Vibram® ripple lug sole
- Round Toe
- Flat Heel
- Traditional leather welt construction
- Shock absorbing EVA heel cup for added comfort
