Some trends, like low-rise jeans, are divisive. The very thought of them—or worse, attempting to actually wear them—can cause an immediate visceral reaction. But trying bold trends (like the best clogs — which we’ll get to!) can also have the opposite effect, making you feel unique, elevated and interesting. For me, part of what fuels confidence in an outfit is knowing that people will react strongly to it. Whether you love it or hate it, I’m at least making you feel something. Recently, I’ve been (literally) swept off my feet by a new divisive trend that’s picking up steam: clogs.
Table Of Contents
Do Podiatrists Recommend Clogs?
Are Clogs Good or Bad for Your Feet?
What to Look for in a Clog, According to an Expert
The Most Stylish Clogs in 2024 Have These Features, According to an Expert
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Leesa Rowland Shares Her Charisma Factor
Top 10 Clogs at a Glance
Best Sherpa Clogs: CUSHIONAIRE Women’s Hana Cork Footbed Clog , $30
Best Clog in Multiple Colors: Simon Miller Bubble Clog, $198
Best Rubber Clogs: UGG Tasman X Waterproof Clog, $56
Best Clogs for Circulation: Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clog, $160
Best Metallic Clogs: Jeffrey Campbell Metallic Bae Platform Mules, $30 (Originally $60)
Best Suede Clogs: Universal Thread Betsy Clog Mule Flats, $30
Best Heeled Clogs: Veronica Beard Dacey Suede Clogs, $200 (originally $400)
Best Quilted Clogs: See by Chloe Jodie Clog, $234 (originally $425)
Clogs have been around since they originated in wooden form in the early 13th century Netherlands. It’s hard to believe that after 700 years, clogs still manage to go in and out of style. Though they have always been a practical gardening shoe, clogs are also now considered just as fashion-forward as they are comfortable, with the fashion world revamping them in a bevy of new iterations that, to be fair, look nothing like grandma’s gardening clogs (Although some do, and that’s also kind of the point).
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I first took a liking to clogs when Acne Studios released a fur pair in the fall of 2021. Since then, I have noticed clogs popping up from lots of different designers in a range of price points. There are wooden versions with ’70s vibes, waterproof rubber iterations for daily wear, clogs in patterned fabrics, boucle textures and even animal prints.
Suddenly, I’m beginning to build my entire spring wardrobe around clogs. And it’s hard to decide on just one pair, because each style serves a different purpose. If you’re new to the cool world of clogs or unsure about the trend, I’d recommend picking one style to start with to get a feel for the shape. Here are a few of the best styles we’re shopping now:
Do Podiatrists Recommend Clogs?
According to Alissa Kuizinas, DPM, podiatrist at doctorark.com, “yes, podiatrists often recommend clogs. That being said, it really depends on the person and the type of clogs as to whether I would recommend them.”
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Are Clogs Good or Bad for Your Feet?
“This depends a lot on the type of clogs,” says Dr. Kuizinas. “Generally, clogs have a wide toe box which is great for foot health. However, many clogs have stiff, inflexible soles with elevated heels and are often quite heavy. These features are not so good for foot health.”
When shopping for clogs, “I would recommend sticking with clogs that are lightweight, have some flexibility through the sole, and do not have elevated heels. Additionally, clogs can cause problems if they are fully backless, as your feet have to work hard to hold the shoes in place. Whenever possible, opt for clogs that have a strap around the back or a higher back to hold the shoes on your feet,” says Dr. Kuizinas.
What to Look for in a Clog, According to an Expert
When shopping for clogs, there are a few things you need to remember. “One is that this shoe is meant to be bulky — like platforms and other chunky footwear, it’s perfect for playing with proportions or balancing out an otherwise slim-fitting look, such as a slip dress,” explains Samantha Sutton, stylist and Stylecaster e-comm writer.
“And, while there should be enough room to slip your foot in and out with ease, you’ll want to make sure your clogs are not so oversized that you struggle to walk in them. If you’re constantly having to readjust and feel like you’re about to slide out, try another pair.”
The Most Stylish Clogs in 2024 Have These Features, According to an Expert
“I saw a ton of texture on the spring 2024 runways, whether we’re talking furry menswear options from Dries Van Noten or embellished pairs at 3.1 Phillip Lim. Even Loewe’s clogs, which were simpler instead of over-the-top, included ornate details at the front,” says Sutton. “When shopping for a pair of your own, I would keep these statement-making shoes in mind. Then again, you can go wrong with something that feels timeless, like a leather design with a wooden heel or a basic Birkenstock.”
CUSHIONAIRE Women’s Hana Cork Footbed Clog
PHOTO : CUSHIONAIRE
CUSHIONAIRE Women’s Hana Cork Footbed Clog
We may be in warmer weather territory, but that doesn’t mean you have to ditch super soft materials that’ll keep your feet cozy. This pair of 100 percent genuine suede clogs contour perfectly to the shape of your foot after getting worn in. They also come in larger width sizing for those with wider feet.
Universal Thread Betsy Clog Mule Flats
PHOTO : UNIVERSAL THREAD
Universal Thread Betsy Clog Mule Flats
These clogs from Target come in sizes 5.5-12, and are just $30. You can pick them up in black, taupe, tan or light grey, and they’re the perfect addition to any closet. I’d pair these with a wool mini skirt and black tights.
Dr. Martens Carlson II Clog
Dr. Martens Carlson II Clog
You may know Dr. Martens for its vastly popular boots, but did you know the brand also carries stylish clogs? This black pair has a moveable and adjustable buckled strap with a suede upper and rubber sole. Its bright yellow stitching adds some extra eye-catching detail.
Charlotte Stone Martino Clogs
PHOTO : ANTHROPOLOGIE
Charlotte Stone Martino Clogs
Anthropologie isn’t just known for its vast selection of apparel—the retailer also carries stylish shoes, like this vibrant orange pair of slip-on clogs. It features a suede upper, leather insole and wood heel.
Madewell x Dansko® Brinn Mules in Leather
PHOTO : MADEWELL
Madewell x Dansko® Brinn Mules in Leather
Madewell partnered up with footwear company Dansko to release an upgraded version of their bodern mule. This smooth leather, slip-on clogs are just as comfortable and supportive as they are stylish; the swiveled buckle strap can be moved to the back for extra security while you’re bouncing around town.
Boston Soft Footbed Clog
BOSTON SOFT FOOTBED CLOG
PHOTO : BIRKENSTOCK.
Boston Soft Footbed Clog
Since these iconic Birkenstock clogs are made from a natural cork and latex footbed that is designed to have even weight distribution to improve circulation. These are perfect for your next plane outfit because they’re fully covered, you can still wear your socks, and you’ll be comfy all day long.
Veronica Beard Dacey Suede Clogs
VERONICA BEARD DACEY SUEDE CLOGS
PHOTO : VERONICA BEARD.
Veronica Beard Dacey Suede Clogs
Step into these heels if you dare… at the very least you’re going to look cool AF doing it. These heeled clogs come in a green color and brown shade and feature a buckle trim and leather lining for maximum comfort and style.
Metallic Bae Platform Mules
METALLIC BAE PLATFORM MULES
PHOTO : METALLIC BAE PLATFORM MULES
Metallic Bae Platform Mules
On Sale 50% off
It’s 2024, clogs aren’t meant to be boring. Add some flair to this comfortable design by choosing different, eye-catching materials. These are made from all rubber with a chic metallic finish. You can pick them up in five different colors.
Tasman X Waterproof Clog
COURTESY OF UGG.
Tasman X Waterproof Clog
Rubber clogs are the most practical version of the shoe, often associated with sunny days spent in the garden. While rubber clogs can absolutely be worn when watering plants, the material has gotten an upgrade as fashionable waterproof street style option.
Brands ranging from UGG to Gucci have released rubber clogs for spring, and I recommend trying them out because they are comfortable and easy to clean. They also pair well with casual or sporty clothing, so there’s room for styling exploration. I don’t even need to suggest pairing This pair with a sock, because they already come with a removable option built in!
Bolinas Crochet Clogs
BOLINAS CROCHET CLOGS
PHOTO : THE SAK.
Bolinas Crochet Clogs
These crochet clogs from The Sak put a unique spin on the traditional style. Since these are crocheted by hand, the upper is flexible as you walk, which makes for a comfier fit. Plus, they’re made from REPREVE® fibers, using recycled ocean-bound plastics, so you can feel good about rocking these on a daily basis.
The insole is made of leather with a padded footbed, so you can wear these for hours and still feel as comfortable as you did when you left the house. You can pick these up in 26 different colors and styles.
Andre Assous Olivia Clog
ANDRE ASSOUS OLIVIA CLOG
PHOTO : ANDRE ASSOUS.
Andre Assous Olivia Clog
It only takes one scroll through Zara’s site to know the ’70s are cool again. Compliment your geometric-printed sets and bright mini skirts with retro-inspired studded clogs with wood. This style was considered essential footwear in the ’70s, then modeled after the fully-wooden clogs that originated in the Netherlands decades prior.
The modern version is more practical for everyday wear, often with a wooden heel and leather or suede uppers. These studded clogs check all of the ’70s-inspired boxes—plus, the block heel base makes them a great option for the office or a night out when you want a more boho feel.
Simon Miller Bubble Clog
COURTESY OF SIMON MILLER.
Simon Miller Bubble Clog
On Sale 50% off
Platform clogs come in many forms. The purposefully-clunky style gives the same height-boosting impact as a lug-sole boot or high heel, but makes far more of a unique statement. Platform clogs seem to be the style-of-choice for designers this spring, and were a huge trend during New York Fashion Week.
Simon Miller is a designer leading the clog trend with multiple iterations of the bubble clog. This pair is made with vegan leather and comes in nine different colors and textures.
See by Chloe Jodie Clog
SEE BY CHLOE JODIE CLOG
PHOTO : SEE BY CHLOE.
See by Chloe Jodie Clog
On Sale 45% off
See by Chloe is luxury brand Chloe’s little sister label that’s more affordable and just as chic, as evidenced by these quilted clogs. They also feature a contoured leather footbed for maximum comfort.
