Sherwin Williams Salty Dog SW 9177 Paint Color Review

Okay, so picture this: you’re standing in the paint aisle, staring at what feels like a million shades of blue, and you’re thinking, “Ugh… why is picking a wall color always a decision that could give me a mild existential crisis?” Yeah, I’ve been there. That’s when Salty Dog SW 9177 waltzes in and kind of steals the show.

I mean, this is one of those colors that somehow feels serious and chill at the same time. Not too flashy, not too blah, sort of like that friend who somehow looks effortlessly cool without even trying.

Honestly, the first time I saw Salty Dog, I was drawn in immediately. It’s deep, it’s moody, but it’s still inviting.

It’s the kind of blue that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and a hot drink, or, if you’re feeling ambitious, paint your kitchen cabinets and suddenly feel like a designer. And yes, I might’ve done both.

What Color is Sherwin Williams Salty Dog SW 9177?

Alright, let’s break it down. Salty Dog SW 9177 is… well, it’s blue. But not your standard “baby blue” or “sky blue” kind of blue.

Think deeper, richer, almost like the ocean when it’s late afternoon and a little stormy is rolling in. It’s a deep, moody navy with a hint of gray that gives it sophistication without feeling cold.

It’s that “I want a statement color, but not in-your-face” vibe. I’ve used it on accent walls, and it instantly makes the space feel anchored and cozy, like, you know, it has a personality. And trust me, it photographs beautifully, even if your lighting isn’t perfect.

Is It a Warm Or Cool Color?

Not gonna lie, this one confused me at first, too. But here’s the deal: Salty Dog is definitely a cool color. You can tell because it leans toward those crisp, blue-gray tones rather than anything that feels golden or reddish.

It’s the kind of blue that makes you feel calm, collected, maybe even a little introspective, like staring out the window with a cup of coffee while it rains.

So, if you’re thinking about pairing it with other colors, keep it on the cooler side, or you might fight the vibe a bit. Cool grays, soft whites, or muted blues, it’s basically a matchmaker’s dream.

LRV of Sherwin Williams Salty Dog

LRV… sounds fancy, right? Basically, it’s a number that tells you how much light a paint color reflects. So, the higher the number, the brighter the color will feel in your space. Salty Dog SW 9177? Its LRV is 5. Yup, five. That’s seriously low.

Translation: this is a dark color. It’s gonna soak up light like it’s on a mission. Don’t freak out, this is perfect if you want drama, moodiness, or just that cozy “I could live in this cave forever” feel. Just make sure your room has some natural light or brighter accents to balance it out, or you might feel like you’re living in a navy bunker.

Color Family

Super simple: Salty Dog belongs in the blue family. But not just any blue, this is a deep, almost stormy, slightly grayish blue. It’s like navy’s cooler, more modern cousin who shows up to the party in a leather jacket and everyone nods in approval.

RGB Colors

Okay, for all you digital folks or anyone who wants the exact “recipe” of this color, here’s the breakdown:

RGB: 35 / 64 / 88

Hex Value

And if you’re dropping it into a digital design or mood board, the Hex value you need is: #234058.

Undertones of Sherwin Williams Salty Dog

Here’s where it gets interesting. At first glance, it looks like just a deep blue, but it’s actually got subtle gray and slight green undertones.

Why does that matter? Well, it’s why the color can read differently depending on the lighting. In bright sunlight, you might notice it leans slightly grayish.

Under warm indoor lighting, it can feel a touch greeny, like a blue that’s trying to be mysterious. I swear, it keeps you on your toes, which is kinda fun, actually. It’s like a color with a little personality, you know?

How Different Types of Lighting Affect Sherwin Williams Salty Dog?

Oh boy, this is where Salty Dog really shows off its personality. Not kidding, this color is like a little chameleon depending on the lighting. So, picture this: you paint your living room, feeling proud, and then the sun sets. Suddenly, that bold navy you were imagining starts to look… darker. Way darker.

That’s the natural light factor. Bright, direct sunlight will bring out the slight greenish-gray undertones, making it feel a little softer and more approachable. Kind of like a navy that wants to hug you instead of stare at you.

Now, indoors under warm lighting, think your standard yellowish LED or incandescent bulbs, the blue starts leaning cooler and moodier, almost like it’s plotting something… not literally, but you get me. On overcast days, it reads almost slate-like, which is gorgeous if you like drama, but maybe not if you want a cheery kitchen vibe.

Basically, the takeaway? Salty Dog loves attention. Test it in your own lighting at different times of day before committing. And maybe grab a few sample boards. Trust me, it’s worth it, you don’t want a “why did I do this?” moment when it looks 50 shades darker than you expected.

Trim Colors to Pair With Sherwin Williams Salty Dog?

Alright, here’s the fun part: trims. Oh, trims can make or break a deep color like Salty Dog. My go-to? Crisp, clean whites. Think classic, fresh, like those Pinterest-perfect houses you’ve been stalking. A white trim makes Salty Dog pop and keeps the space from feeling like a navy cave (unless that’s your thing, in which case, carry on).

Another fun option is soft grays. They’re subtle and let the blue still shine, but add a little extra depth. Sometimes I even like a slightly off-white cream if I’m going for a warmer, cozy vibe, kind of like pairing your navy blazer with a soft cashmere scarf.

Basically, avoid anything too yellow or too dark brown unless you want a very “vintage nautical ship” mood. Not that that’s bad, just… specific. Otherwise, white, soft gray, or even a muted taupe can turn your trim into a quiet supporting actor that makes Salty Dog the star of the show.

Colors Similar to Sherwin Williams Salty Dog

If you love Salty Dog but aren’t 100% ready to dive deep into that dramatic navy, there are a few colors that give you a similar vibe without going full-on intense. These colors usually share that same deep, moody energy with subtle gray or green undertones, so you get the sophistication without the visual weight of a nearly-black navy.

Think about it like this: it’s like comparing dark chocolate, bittersweet chocolate, and semi-sweet chocolate. All are rich, all are comforting, but each has a slightly different personality. Some blues will lean a touch warmer, some a touch cooler, but all give you that “serious yet cozy” feeling.

You can use these alternatives if your room is small or if you’re just experimenting with an accent wall. Honestly, sometimes testing similar shades on a wall gives you clarity, you might discover a color you actually like more than Salty Dog, and that’s totally okay.

Here’s a solid list of similar colors:

• Sherwin Williams Dress Blues SW 9176
• Sherwin Williams Naval SW 6244
• Sherwin Williams In the Navy SW 9178
• Sherwin Williams Indigo Batik SW 7602
• Sherwin Williams Moscow Midnight SW 9142
• Sherwin Williams Rainstorm SW 6230
• Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Gray 2062-20
• Benjamin Moore Marine Blue 2059-10
• Benjamin Moore Newburyport Blue HC-155
• Benjamin Moore New York State of Mind 805

Colors that Go With Sherwin Williams Salty Dog

Now, let’s talk partner-in-crime colors, the shades that just click with Salty Dog and make your space look intentional rather than slapped-together. Because, honestly, deep blues can be tricky. If you pair it with random colors, it can feel moody and heavy in a bad way. But the right complements? Oh, magic.

Neutrals are your best friend here. Soft whites, light grays, and muted creams help balance that boldness without stealing attention. Then there are colors that carry subtle warmth, like soft tan, sand, or even a muted blush, that add dimension and make the space feel inviting instead of icy. Accent pieces in lighter blues or even slightly greenish hues can tie the undertones together beautifully.

Personally, I also love adding pops of brighter colors like mustard, burnt orange, or even a saturated teal, but only in small doses. Think pillows, vases, or a cute chair. It keeps the room from feeling like a navy dungeon and gives the walls some breathing room.

Here are some colors that go well with Salty Dog, including some favorites you’ve probably heard of:

• Pure White SW 7005
• Gray Screen SW 7071
• Favorite Jeans SW 9147
• Repose Gray SW 7015
• Sea Salt SW 6204
• Accessible Beige SW 7036
• Greek Villa SW 7551
• Bunglehouse Blue SW 0048

Comparing Sherwin Williams Salty Dog With Other Colors

Alright, let’s have a little chat about comparisons, because sometimes just hearing “deep navy” isn’t enough. Colors are sneaky like that. They can look bold, dramatic, cozy, or even moody depending on the lighting, the room, and what other shades are around them.

So, comparing Salty Dog to other popular shades helps you understand its vibe better, and maybe figure out if it’s “the one” for your walls. I’ve pulled five colors that people often look at when they’re considering Salty Dog, and trust me, each has its own little personality.

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog vs Naval SW 6244

Naval is a close cousin to Salty Dog, but it’s slightly lighter and less green in its undertone. If Salty Dog is your mysterious, brooding friend, Naval is that same friend but a little more approachable, less intimidating, more of a “come hang out” vibe. In a small room, Naval might feel more airy, whereas Salty Dog commands attention and anchors a space.

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog vs In the Navy SW 9178

“In the Navy” leans slightly more traditional blue with less gray, so it can feel brighter and less moody. Salty Dog, by contrast, has that subtle gray-green undertone that gives it a modern twist. If you want drama and a touch of sophistication, Salty Dog wins. If you want classic navy without the broody undertones, In the Navy is a safe bet.

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog vs Kendall Charcoal HC-166 (Benjamin Moore)

Okay, now this is where things get interesting. Kendall Charcoal isn’t really a true navy, it’s a dark gray with blue hints. Side by side with Salty Dog, you can see that Salty Dog is richer, more distinctly blue, and has a little life in it. Kendall Charcoal is serious and moody, yes, but it lacks the playful depth that Salty Dog brings to a room.

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog vs Hale Navy HC-154 (Benjamin Moore)

Hale Navy is a classic, super popular, timeless, a little less intense than Salty Dog. Salty Dog feels slightly more modern and edgy, thanks to its subtle undertones. If you want a space that feels contemporary but still anchored in traditional blue, Salty Dog might be the cooler, moodier choice.

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog vs Dark Night SW 6239

Dark Night is darker, almost bordering on black-blue in certain light. Salty Dog is more forgiving, it’s still deep and moody, but not so dark that it can swallow a room. Dark Night is perfect for dramatic, formal spaces, but Salty Dog balances drama with approachability. It’s the friend who’s serious but still laughs at your bad jokes.

Where to Use Sherwin Williams Salty Dog?

Okay, let’s talk placement, because a deep, rich color like Salty Dog deserves thoughtful spots. This isn’t just about picking a pretty shade, it’s about creating a vibe. Salty Dog is versatile, but it’s definitely one of those colors that can transform a room from “meh” to “wow” if used strategically.

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog In the Bedroom

In a bedroom, Salty Dog is basically a dream. It’s cozy without being oppressive, sophisticated without feeling stiff. I once painted an accent wall behind a bed in this shade, paired it with soft cream bedding, and it instantly felt like a boutique hotel.

Lighting matters, try soft lamps instead of harsh overhead lights, and you’ll get that perfect moody, relaxing retreat feel. It’s also amazing for making the white trim and bedding pop, giving a crisp contrast.

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog In the Living Room

Living rooms are tricky, right? You want drama but also comfort. Salty Dog works beautifully here, especially when paired with light gray sofas or cream accents.

A deep blue living room feels luxurious and grounded. Add in some metallics or warm woods, and suddenly the space isn’t just a room, it’s a whole experience. I threw this color on my living room wall once, and even with minimal décor, it felt intentional and polished.

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog in Kitchen

Kitchens might seem scary for deep colors, but hear me out: painted cabinets in Salty Dog are chef’s kiss. They’re bold, stylish, and surprisingly timeless.

Pair with white marble or light countertops to avoid feeling cave-like, and maybe toss in some brass hardware for a touch of glam. I’ve done it in a small kitchen before, and it honestly made the space feel like it belonged in a design magazine.

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog In the Bathroom

Bathrooms are my personal favorite for Salty Dog because it feels spa-like. Dark walls paired with white or light tiles create instant contrast and elegance.

Add soft towels and a few plants, and you’ve got a bathroom that makes you want to linger (which might be a problem if you’re already late for work, not that I’ve ever done that…).

Sherwin Williams Salty Dog For the Exterior

Yes, yes, yes, this is stunning outside. On a front door, shutters, or even the whole exterior, Salty Dog makes a house stand out without screaming.

Pair with crisp white trim and maybe some natural wood accents, and suddenly your curb appeal skyrockets. People literally notice, and trust me, it’s one of those “oh wow, they really thought this through” colors.

Why I Love Sherwin Williams Salty Dog

Honestly, why wouldn’t I love it? It’s deep but inviting, moody but not depressing, versatile but distinct. It’s one of those rare colors that feels modern without being trendy, classic without being boring.

I love how it makes me feel when I walk into a room painted in this shade, grounded, cozy, and just a little fancy. Plus, it works in every room I’ve tried it in (yes, even the kitchen).

The undertones give it personality, the depth makes it statement-worthy, and the versatility is just the cherry on top.

Honestly, if colors could have personalities, Salty Dog would be that friend who’s effortlessly stylish and somehow makes everyone else look good, too.

Final Thoughts

To wrap it up: Sherwin Williams Salty Dog SW 9177 is more than just a deep navy, it’s mood, it’s personality, it’s style.

It can anchor a room, elevate a space, and give your home that little wow factor without feeling over the top. It’s dramatic but approachable, sophisticated but cozy, and honestly, a little addictive.

If you’re debating wall colors, cabinet paints, or even exterior accents, Salty Dog deserves a serious look. Just remember: test your lighting, pair with complementary trims and neutrals, and embrace the depth. Because once you go Salty Dog, it’s kind of hard to go back to anything else.

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