Dubarry
Ireland
Dubarry is an Irish footwear and clothing brand founded in 1937 in Ballinasloe, County Galway. It is known for waterproof leather boots for sailing and country wear, and sells mainly through specialist and department stores worldwide.
| Founded | 1937 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Cullen family and Ballinasloe Chamber of Commerce |
| Headquarters | Ballinasloe, Ireland |
| Segment | Premium and contemporary |
| Production | Contract partners, mainly in Portugal (since 2004) |
| Website | dubarry.com |
What is Dubarry?
Dubarry is a footwear and clothing brand based in Ballinasloe, County Galway. Its company website describes waterproof leather boots for sailing and outdoor use, alongside shoes and clothing for everyday wear. Design is carried out in house at its Irish headquarters.
History
Dubarry was founded in 1937 as a joint venture between the local Chamber of Commerce and the Cullen family, who brought footwear expertise from Northampton in England. The name honours Madame du Barry, chosen to set the brand apart from other Irish competitors. In the early 1990s it became the first brand worldwide licensed to make leather sailing boots with GORE-TEX, which led to the Galway Country Boot. A first clothing range followed in 2008.
Products and positioning
- Boots: country boots, including the Galway, and sailing boots such as the Crosshaven and Shamrock.
- Deck shoes: leather footwear for sailing and shore.
- Clothing: tweed and knitwear, Gore-Tex jackets and Primaloft gilets.
- Accessories: leather goods and related items.
Business model and distribution
Dubarry sells through department stores, specialist stores and independent retailers worldwide, supported by a small number of its own stores. Flagships opened in Dublin in 2012 and on King's Road, Chelsea, in 2013, followed by a Cheltenham store in 2016. The UK distribution point and offices are in Chipping Norton.
Manufacturing in Ballinasloe ended in 2004. Boots and deck shoes are now made by contract partners in Portugal and clothing by partners elsewhere, while design, product development, marketing and quality control stay at headquarters.
Why it matters
Dubarry is an example of a long-established Irish manufacturer that moved production abroad but kept design and brand control at home, and built a specialist position in marine and country footwear.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Dubarry from?
Dubarry is from Ballinasloe in County Galway, Ireland, where it was founded in 1937. Its design and headquarters functions remain there.
What is Dubarry known for?
Dubarry is best known for waterproof leather boots for sailing and country wear, including the Galway Country Boot. It was the first brand licensed to make leather sailing boots with GORE-TEX.