Dubarry

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Some information in this article or section is not attributed to sources and may not be reliable.
Please check for inaccuracies, and modify and cite sources as needed.

Dubarry of Ireland or just Dubarry is an Irish footwear company headquartered in Ballinasloe, County Galway. Dubarry was established in 1936 by the newly formed Ballinasloe Chamber of Commerce primarily as a co-operative initiative to provide local employment. It then grew into one of the most well-known producers of moccasin constructed shoes in Europe.

The employees of the company were known locally as 'the Apaches' due to a moccassin design made by the Company. A local pub, The Dunlo Tavern was nicknamed 'The Apache Inn', as it was a favourite of the workers. During October fair week in the town, the Dubarry company would display its float.

In November 2004, Dubarry ceased its manufacturing facility in Ballinasloe,^[1] transferring operations to Portugal where it already has another plant. Dubarry justified its decision to re-locate its entire production line to Portugal on high labour costs in Ireland. The company headquarters, however, as well as its product development, marketing and distribution departments, are to remain in Ballinasloe. As such, designations of Dubarry as Irish footwear or as being "Made in Ireland" may be misleading; the shoes are produced entirely abroad.^[2]

They produce deck shoes, sailing boots, yachting boots and other marine footwear as well as school shoes and more heavy boots. Other brands that fall under the Dubarry company include AV8s, Hobos, Trix and Trucker. None of these are associated with Dubarry name as they have their own packaging and brand name.^[3]

Due to the high levels of performance and durability their sailing boots are the recognised as the footwear of choice for leading yachtsmen and crews competing in the Americas Cup, Volvo Ocean Race, Vendee Globe, Admirals Cup, Cork Week, Cowes Week and The Race, amongst others. In 2005, Dubarry sponsored the Bénéteau Cup and the Galway Bay Cruiser Championship.^{[citation needed]}

1 Dubarry: The Fashion Accessory
2 The Dube Knot
3 References
4 External links

[edit] Dubarry: The Fashion Accessory

Primarily Dubarry shoes are aimed at the world of sailing, the company is the world's only dedicated provider of performance marine footwear, producing shoes for men, women and children.^{[citation needed]}

Shoes produced by the Dubarry company are sometimes known as Dubes. The deck shoe even has its own unique type of knot which has become known as the Dube Knot.

[edit] The Dube Knot

The Dubarry Knot is similar to a hangman's noose knot, only it uses one lace instead of two. The picture should give clear indication of how it is tied. It allows the wearer to slip the shoes off easily and tighten them quite quickly.