Often, it is the simplest things that can cause big problems, overlooked perhaps because they are so obvious, because we don’t understand their importance, because we become complacent, or because we just forget. Things like wearing sunscreen, changing you car’s oil, or remembering your wife’s birthday.
In yachting, there are lots of little things that must be addressed regularly for maintenance or safety. After 32 years in the business, I am somewhat keen about them. But I got complacent about one of the most important and was reminded -- the hard way -- a few months back.
GOOD BOAT SHOES!
I have to say that I absolutely knew better. But age and sore feet gave way to comfort and style and cushioned insoles and “acceptable” outers trumped made-for-boating brands. For years, my shoe rack was filled with Sperrys and Docksiders, specifically made to give good grip and traction on wet, slippery decks. But little-by-little, they were replaced by soft-soled styles, easy to slip on and off, that protected client’s decks and flooring -- but that didn’t protect me! I had no problem for years until one day, reality struck.
It was early morning and I needed to check something on a client’s boat. The deck was wet from dew mixed with a light rain. I knew it was slippery and that I had to be careful boarding but when I stepped from the dock to the deck, those nice, cushy soles had no grip and gave way. With all my weight on it, my foot went sliding forward and my back leg followed, slamming into the side of the boat as I tumbled (very ungracefully, I’m sure), down into the cockpit.
After a quick check of all my body parts, I thought I had escaped with a few bruises and a slightly wounded pride. Then I noticed the gash just under my knee and the fountain of blood pumping from it. Thankfully, the dock master was nearby and he was able to compress the artery to stop the bleeding until I got to the hospital.
I consider myself very blessed that I came away from that experience with no more than seven stitches. It could have been so much worse.
Well, those not-for-boating shoes are now long gone and I certainly learned a critical lesson. In the words of Julius Caesar, “Experience is the teacher of all things”.
How important are good quality, well-maintained boat shoes? Very, very, very! In the marine realm, footwear and safety go hand-in-hand and manufacturers have come a long way in offering new, comfortable, contemporary styles.
Please, check your shoes before your next boarding and be sure they will keep you safe and on your feet in all marine conditions. Its one of those simple little things that will help avoid big, unexpected problems.
Wishes for safe and happy boating!
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