Our verdict
With its quintessential sneaker design, the Sperry Lounge could be a fantastic addition to a woman's footwear collection. But Sperry didn't limit this footwear to appearance alone. Wearers also praised this footgear for its comfort, sturdiness, and generous cushioning. While this pair of kicks has its share of imperfections, many are still amazed by the tons of features it delivers.
Pros
- Comfortable footbed
- Durable
- Mix and match champ
- Handy slip-on design
- Nice to know about the Sperry Lounge
- Compliment magnet
- Pocket-friendly
- Attracts repeat buyers
- Lightweight
Cons
- Requires a break-in period
- Attracts repeat buyers
- Upper shrinks when wet
- Narrow forefoot section
Who should buy the Sperry Lounge
The Sperry Lounge might suit you well if:
- You prefer a budget-friendly shoe yet sturdy enough to last a long time.
- You are looking for footwear that could save you time with its easy-put-on design.
- Mix and match champ.
Fit and sizing
In addition to Sperry’s low-top sneaker collection, the Sperry Lounge is available exclusively for women. For those whose preference is a roomier forefoot, most users suggest getting a half-size up. This slip-on trainer takes a couple of use before breaking in but once achieved, delivers the much-needed comfort.
Additionally, the memory foam insole contributes to the added cushioning to keep the wearer’s feet comfortable.
Upper shrinks when wet
Thinking of ways to style the Sperry Lounge is a no-brainer because of the timelessness of the design and the multiple basic colorways of white, gray, navy blue, black, white, and sand. Don on a Sperry Lounge and throw on with pretty much anything -- jeans, shorts, or casual dresses. One can even wear this sockless if one prefers that.
Notable features
The Sperry Lounge features a lace-to-toe (LTT) closure. The intertwined, knotted rope laces are in keeping with the nautical inspiration that Sperry has become famous for. Although looking very much like a lace-up, this kick highlights its slip-on attribute which adds to that fun vibe.
Pinstripe rubber foxing in navy blue and the Sperry signature wave patterns are visible on the midsole.
History of the Sperry Lounge
Having joined as a naval reserve in 1917, founder Paul Sperry learned all the nautical know-how of the craft. Working in his father’s textile company allowed Sperry to learn the trades of running a business.
Perry, a hardcore outdoorsman, bought a sailboat and traveled from coast to coast with his wife, Pauline.
A slipping accident one night in his sailboat motivated him to fabricate his own shoe as the boating shoes available in the market lacked the anti-slip factor. Sperry continued experimenting on various materials and methods but never came close. Until he found inspiration from his pet, a cocker spaniel, running around on the frozen ground without falling once.
Carving the herringbone zigzag pattern -- now known as “siping” -- across the rubber delivered the needed traction. After patenting his creation, Sperry, with his business background, marketed the Canvas Circular Vamp Oxford and was a hit.
From one hit to another, Sperry released the Authentic Original. Earning the nickname of a “boat shoe,” the AO features leather that is salt-water resistant and saddle-lacing closure. Since then, Sperry shoes have been worn mostly on land on campuses, offices, malls, etc., and are synonymous with the preppy look.
Nice to know about the Sperry Lounge
- Also available in cotton mesh and ripstop uppers.
- The cotton mesh and ripstop editions have a textile heel overlay for added reinforcement.
