Very nostalgic. I haven’t worn desert boots in decades but what I remember was super comfortable, and they look great with jeans. For just kicking around they really are like outdoor slippers.
Desert boots were never worn in WW2 by Commonwealth soldiers with consistency. It's some kind of a legend: the standard issued boots were the black pebble-grained Ammo Boots - which are still made by William Lennon if you want to review it eventually (WM is some kind of a low-key-White uk company). It's true that they were discovered by the Western world thanks to the soldiers, but regarding the combat issuing, they were more of a private purchase made by officers or very small units. Also, thanks for pointing out these are not "WINTER BOOTS", it's a concept quite hard to grasp for most of the people. I live in a very warm weather and they never bothered me but I always get the odd looks if I sport chukkas in hot seasons
Just got my third pair of Desert boot last week. The Clarks are what I wear these days (I wanted to get away from wearing running shoes all of the time). For more "formal" occasions, I wear Clarks Wallabees (an upgraded desert boot). I've been wearing Clarks shoes for more than 30 years. I find them to be stylish for my "look", and a good value for the money.
man i knew about the Bushacres and the Desert Welt but not the Wallabees, those are like moc toe Desert boots. Interesting! Glad you like them, Michael.
I Do prefer the Desert Trek model:) I’ve gotten 2 pairs of that particular model, a suede one (beigne) and a beeswax one (brown). So comfortable!!!! I wear them everyday to work!!!
There's multiple different variations of this boot, and depending on the price is where the source materials come from. The gentleman's gazette did an informational piece on these if you're interested
Monkey boots, Doc Martens, Clark’s Desert boots.... the classic footwear of 60s 70s and 80s British youth subcultures . From the land where ‘brutally hot asphalt’ doesn’t exist. These brands will always be fantastic
Do you think these are better than Thursday's Scout chukka? I have them and they look so much better than Clark's. I believe I paid 130 for my Thursday's too
sparater no I think Thursdays chukkas are miles better in quality. They’re just a tiny bit pricier ($150) but I should note that some varieties of Clark’s , like khaki leather, can fall all the way to $60/pair. So Clark’s is cheaper but Thursday better value
I have chukkas of this particular commonly seen style, but also 2 really good pairs of UK military pattern desert boots directly styled after the ones issued in WW2 to all british and UK forces. Clark's chukka boots are very nice indeed and quite comfortable for everyday use and wear, but being a military historian/reenactor, i prefer the "issued look". If anyone wants to see what i'm talking about just look up whatpriceglory or onlinemilitaria, online . they sell reproductions of the issued boots i speak of,plus others like ammo boots as well as U.S. G.I. boots.(i paid 65 bucks for my desert boots and they are great cause they can be resoled if need be).
Exactly like you said, I too get more questions and compliments about my Clarks Desert boots. I've worn the sand suede color for more than 20 years. Nothing looks letter with a pair of jeans than desert boots. Top-tip: Timberland insoles for and amazing feeling.
I don't consider $130 to be cheap. Actually they retail for about $150 now. To me cheap is $50 or less. Granted they are not top grain leather with a Dainite sole, but they are very, very comfortable and they look nice for a casual boot and that has a lot to be said for it. I own a pair in black suede and they will never show dirt. The tops are rugged and they can be resoled should you one want to do that. They go great with jeans or chinos and lets face it, you don't buy these to go with a charcoal suit or any suit for that matter. I consider them a great addition to my wardrobe and they will get a lot of use from me. And Clark is the original desert boot and they know how to make em right. These are not junk by any means.
Clarks were & still are worn with suits . Many youth cultures in the UK & abroad wore them with trousers & suits [ Mods, skins, suedeheads & Jamaican rude boys ect ] . Trousers are cut above the ankle to show off the boots , still see people today wearing Clarks desert boots with suits here in the UK , grey tailored suit with black suede CDB, looks great .
I think they are cool looking, but when I tried them on in the store I found that they were very narrow. Clarks doesn't offer wide widths so I tried on the next size up which were too long and still too narrow. They look good on you.
I think they are expensive for what they are, but they still look nice. They are definitely iconic, heritage from the 60s, George Harrison and Steve Mc QUeen. They look coo if you have a british style, but they can be more or less formal, You can go to a concert or put them with a smart look in the office. Very versatile.
In my experience, the sand color is very versatile and can be worn with more formal chinos and say a herringbone sports jacket, as well as navy blue jeans.
Afrikaners in South Africa have been wearing these for centuries. We call them either velskoene (skin shoes) or, more correctly, veldskoene (field shoes). They are traditionally the footwear of farmers, and are very comfortable in stirrups - both as farmers and commandos, Afrikaners spent much time in the saddle. They were never meant to be stylish. They are made in both leather and suede.
I appreciate the honest review. I had this boot on my "to get list" but the way you laid out the pros and cons made me realize I can pass on these boots. Nothing against them, they're just not for me. I'm new to your channel and I hope it continues to grow. Good stuff.
HEADS UP if you're ever in London get yourself to Blackmans on Cheshire st, just off Brick Lane in - you can get basically the same boot but for £20, cant go wrong!
Isn’t it funny how these get you so many compliments. Some of my cheaper boots - such as Dr Martens (my work boots) and Red Wing moc toe (that I gave to my Dad) - have gotten me loads of compliments. Yet some of my more expensive boots, such as the Snowdon, Skye and Russian Radnor by Crockett & Jones, seldom get compliments outside of hardcore shoe and boot lovers.
For a future video could you do a follow up with the made in Italy and England versions? I read they just reopened a plant in England. I've owned a Vietnamese made pair in Beeswax for a while and loved them and recently picked up a pair of Original Desert boots off of ebay. They were practically new and the orange stitching they had caught my eye. I discovered in the inside they were labeled made in England. Point is that they just feel of a higher quality. Great channel, I made sure to subscribe.
Thanks Victor! Yeah I really want to take a look at the Desert Welt some day and maybe compare it to Thursday's Scout, two solid Goodyear welted chukkas for under $200.
I assumed the suede on clarks was simply synthetic suede, similar to what you would see on many skateboard shoes such as Vans. Are you sure it's real suede?
hi thanks for the video. What is your opinion about J Crew Kenton Men’s Leather Boots? may be you can say something about their quality and are they worthy to buy. May be review one day? Thanks
Haha here I thought this was a somewhat positive review! We all value different aspects differently, I guess. Glad I could have been helpful :) As many have suggested, the Bushacre is pretty much the same but with a sturdier sole if that's your main issue, though I can't see it in Oakwood suede amzn.to/2uBVZrP
Good question i have a pair of iron rangers that need a sole. Should i resole those for just under 150 or would it be good just to buy some of these clarks?
I recently bought a new pair of suede Sanders Holborn Chukkas, but I also looked at the Church's Ryder lll, Loake Kempton and a couple of others. The Sanders are a G UK fit which is equivalent to a EE US width. The Sanders are a bit wide on me so I think I'm going to send them back. Not positive which boot I will buy, but if you have had any experience with quality suede chukkas, I'd appreciate your thoughts. Thanks, Brian
Hey Brian, I'm afraid I'm not quite an expert in chukkas! I quite like Red Wing's and Thursdays, can't quite remember off the top of my head what their suede is like, though.
Great review, used to hear that Clarks makes great shoes, but never have the chance to try any yet. But I heard these boots are just legend. Hope could try one real soon
I'd say they're not really comfortable, with specific reference to the footbed. When I tried them on at the store, there was a sharp difference in rise between the forefoot bed and the heel, for lack of a shank. I've always wanted one, but I ended up not buying it. I understand that the Desert Coal model has addressed most of the cons of this model.
They say that the crepe sole is soft and squishy and that their are great for standing, but did you find that to be the case? Did you feel pressure in your heels?
@@DwyaneWadeCounty I can understand how crepe soles can be squishy and comfortable. It is, however, the way the sole of the Desert Boot is made, with a heel but with no shank. The downward transition was drastic such that I felt a sharp downward angle between my heels and the rest of my feet. I attribute it to the lack of a shank, which is quite discernible with a squishy sole. Hence, the Wallaby would be more comfortable since it has a flat sole.
No, they are theoretically resoleable. I have heard some cobblers dont want to deal with crepe. I have a five year old pair that are still wearable, and they're sneaker priced.
The guy at Clarks said it was a combination rapid stitch and cemented sole. Definitely not Goodyear welted, though The Desert Welt from Clarks is this boot with a Goodyear welt. To be honest if you want a Goodyear welted Desert boot it's a lot cheaper to get a $150 Scout Chukka from Thursday Boot Company.
Of course you can wear them with shorts. However, Clarks are now made in the Far East and similar styles by other brands, such as Roamers desert boots, are a lot cheaper. That said, the soles on Roamers don’t last long but they are cheap enough that buying a new pair is cheaper than a resole for a standard leather shoe.
Of course they can be worn with shorts. You can wear anything with shorts. You can wear black oxfords if you want to. Wear whatever you like. Make your own fashion rules.
Yeah I like the idea of comparing this CDB to the fancy one, or the Asian made Doc Martens 1460 to the UK made, etc. etc. Popular versions and their fancier counterparts. Something for down the line!
Stridewise I just got the brown suede on sale 30% off so it came out to the same price As the Vietnam desert boot. The high end one is really nice, but I still wouldn’t pay 190 since it’s not worth the extra 60 bucks when compared to the 130. The 30% ford sealed the deal
Because it the best chuka, following the Originals made in Egypt for North African troops especially Sas etc. I have 2 pairs and love them, well for summer, not really winter in Britain that's for sure. Oh and i wear mine with Jeans and Chinos all the time.
That's weird. My father owns the same pair but they're not lined, it's just leather. Anyway I prefer the Bushacre 2 on the Beeswax finish because they're more structured, the sole is a more modern compound so it will be more comfortable and durable and the beeswax finish is just way more sturdy than suede and will look way better after some wear and tear, as they're coated with oils and waxes they never really stain, they will repel water drops (although I wouldn't purposely use them on wet days because the sole is not attached in a waterproof way).
Great review. By that, I mean an honest overview of the pros and cons of the boot by someone who knows a bit about them. I like the look but decided they are not for me.
Thanks a bunch, Keefe! It's funny I've had some people say it's a positive review and others say this review talked them out of buying the shoes, which I think means I did my job.
Agreed, I watched the video because i was interested in getting a pair. The review was very well presented and informative. However, after watching, I dont think they're for me. Thank you.
@@Stridewise I would purchase a desert chukka so fast if Thursday made it. But they also need to add metal eyelets to their chukka boots I'm afraid that laces would stretch out eyelets.
I love this video but I think the only weird part is he wearing them with shorts I don't know why that rubs me the wrong way but besides that these boots are some of the most comfortable boots ever these are the ones that got me into boots had mine for 2 years
I've had multiple pairs of Desert Boots. Unfortunately the construction is horrible. The soles separated from the uppers after a few months of regular wear. Wasn't worth resoling. Good review man!
My fit wasn't perfect to be honest, you can see my pinky toes coming through the side of the shoe in the close ups. Fortunately the material was super soft so it wasn't a big deal.
Just a great comfortable, kick around chukka with jeans, and dress up your casual with a button down shirt and sport coat. Great shoe, Clark also for years did a version with a moc toe, and crepe sole that was wedge shaped. ..great comfortable casual shoe...
Best part is it is a low profile shoe..i am 33 and want to wear something that looks good and not fashionable , it is for me. If you are early 20s , may be it is not for you.
Haha the one from Uniqlo? Mine is so shapeless (like the boots) I need a new one. Been looking at the Vesper from Mack Weldon but I don't like how meshy it is.
Stridewise lol..you should have asked. ..and did you know that the union jack and the Jamaican flag are the only flags to be officially on the boot. .lol #facts
I get that. I honestly had no idea it was the same material as Red Wing's moc toe though, turns out there can be a ton of difference in softness/durability among different crepe soles. Clark's is definitely on the softer/crappier side, haha. Keep an eye out for a review of Red Wing's moc toe in the future.
I think if I do a "sequel" to this video it'll probably be the Desert Welt, although there does seem to be a lot of interest in a comparison of the Desert Boot and Wallabees so maybe I will write that up!
Australians meet out at swimming pools right next to the sea, where they wear their speedos, their sand colored chukka boots, and drink lots of beer from small tiny glasses.
Why would you even buy Thursday crepe sole boot? It’s not even a crepe sole to begin with. The whole point of the desertboot is the crepe sole. That’s like buying a chukka sneaker. Also CF Stead manufactures the suede on these boots, which is the premiere source of suede anywhere, so I think your statement about being cheap needs to be qualified. They are excellent to wear with chinos.
CF Stead doesn't produce the suede on these boots, I confirmed it with Clarks who spent several days researching it. They produce it for the Desert Welt and pricier boots. Re: Thursday I was talking about the Scout as a chukka boot, I didn't mean to imply their chukka has a crepe sole.
Stridewise my navy suede desert boots have cf stead’s logo on them. It may just be your specific ones, there’s a video made by cf Stead highlighting how they make the desert boot. This was produced only a few years ago.
Yeah they told me it was made in Vietnam, i said can you double check, and they said yeah and called me back four days later to confirm "yes the leather itself is definitely made in Vietnam."
✪ Check out the 10 Best Boots On the Market! ruclips.net/video/9kuHyyefNGE/видео.html
Very nostalgic. I haven’t worn desert boots in decades but what I remember was super comfortable, and they look great with jeans. For just kicking around they really are like outdoor slippers.
Totally agree, Mike!
Started wearing these in 1968, we called them brothel creepers when I was in the royal navy
Desert boots were never worn in WW2 by Commonwealth soldiers with consistency. It's some kind of a legend: the standard issued boots were the black pebble-grained Ammo Boots - which are still made by William Lennon if you want to review it eventually (WM is some kind of a low-key-White uk company). It's true that they were discovered by the Western world thanks to the soldiers, but regarding the combat issuing, they were more of a private purchase made by officers or very small units.
Also, thanks for pointing out these are not "WINTER BOOTS", it's a concept quite hard to grasp for most of the people. I live in a very warm weather and they never bothered me but I always get the odd looks if I sport chukkas in hot seasons
Proper ammo boots come with hobnails, a metal toe piece and a metal horseshoe-shaped heel piece. Nick will NOT enjoy wearing those around NYC.
Clarks desert boots are iconic, been wearing them for years, love them.
VERY iconic. Just got the one pair?
Stridewise Three pairs. It's essential that I own a leather pair for UK winters.
I had a pair for about 15 yes then my dog decided to eat one
I wore these back in the 1960s with a pair of Levis.. Favourite mod fashion.
Andrew Cutts how fucking old are you
I still wear them with Levi’s a Fred Perry an a G9 jacket . Wore them to school 35 years ago too
@@user-yi3oi1om8l old enough to wear them in the 1960s with a pair of Levis, so anywhere from a child to a vampire
@@borp6912 I forgot I even made that comment 😭
CLARKS DESERT BOOTS,AND BASS WEEJUNS WAS OUR GO TO'S IN THE 60'S ISTILL HAVE MANY PAIRS OF BOTH AND STILL WEAR TODAY AT 72
Just got my third pair of Desert boot last week. The Clarks are what I wear these days (I wanted to get away from wearing running shoes all of the time). For more "formal" occasions, I wear Clarks Wallabees (an upgraded desert boot). I've been wearing Clarks shoes for more than 30 years. I find them to be stylish for my "look", and a good value for the money.
man i knew about the Bushacres and the Desert Welt but not the Wallabees, those are like moc toe Desert boots. Interesting! Glad you like them, Michael.
I Do prefer the Desert Trek model:) I’ve gotten 2 pairs of that particular model, a suede one (beigne) and a beeswax one (brown). So comfortable!!!! I wear them everyday to work!!!
the amount of research you put into these videos makes you stand out from other youtubers, keep up the good work!
Thank you so much, Vincent!
There's multiple different variations of this boot, and depending on the price is where the source materials come from. The gentleman's gazette did an informational piece on these if you're interested
Is oakwood suede the same as sand suede? Because I can't find oakwood on Clarks's website.
You say that the crepe sole is soft and squishy, but I swear mine are stiff and not squishy. Think it will soften up with use or am I stuck with it?
There were all the rage in the late 70s when I was a teen. They would sell for 50 French francs, and we'd go thru two pairs a year...
wore these when i was a kid 1960-1970s don't step in gasoline ,the gum rubber sole will melt instantly,good and comfy shoe,kinda like a moccasin..
Oh I'm glad I mentioned the gasoline thing in the video! I was worried it might have been a myth, haha.
Who is spilling puddles of gasoline on the streets lol?
Monkey boots, Doc Martens, Clark’s Desert boots.... the classic footwear of 60s 70s and 80s British youth subcultures .
From the land where ‘brutally hot asphalt’ doesn’t exist.
These brands will always be fantastic
Do you think these are better than Thursday's Scout chukka? I have them and they look so much better than Clark's. I believe I paid 130 for my Thursday's too
sparater no I think Thursdays chukkas are miles better in quality. They’re just a tiny bit pricier ($150) but I should note that some varieties of Clark’s , like khaki leather, can fall all the way to $60/pair.
So Clark’s is cheaper but Thursday better value
I have chukkas of this particular commonly seen style, but also 2 really good pairs of UK military pattern desert boots directly styled after the ones issued in WW2 to all british and UK forces. Clark's chukka boots are very nice indeed and quite comfortable for everyday use and wear, but being a military historian/reenactor, i prefer the "issued look". If anyone wants to see what i'm talking about just look up whatpriceglory or onlinemilitaria, online . they sell reproductions of the issued boots i speak of,plus others like ammo boots as well as U.S. G.I. boots.(i paid 65 bucks for my desert boots and they are great cause they can be resoled if need be).
Trendy, yet old-school,...timeless.
I wear some Clark's in High School and girls liked them ;)
I fell in love with this shoes in 2020,i have 3 pairs of different colors now... Can literally wear them with anything
Exactly like you said, I too get more questions and compliments about my Clarks Desert boots. I've worn the sand suede color for more than 20 years. Nothing looks letter with a pair of jeans than desert boots. Top-tip: Timberland insoles for and amazing feeling.
I don't consider $130 to be cheap. Actually they retail for about $150 now. To me cheap is $50 or less. Granted they are not top grain leather with a Dainite sole, but they are very, very comfortable and they look nice for a casual boot and that has a lot to be said for it. I own a pair in black suede and they will never show dirt. The tops are rugged and they can be resoled should you one want to do that. They go great with jeans or chinos and lets face it, you don't buy these to go with a charcoal suit or any suit for that matter. I consider them a great addition to my wardrobe and they will get a lot of use from me. And Clark is the original desert boot and they know how to make em right. These are not junk by any means.
Clarks were & still are worn with suits . Many youth cultures in the UK & abroad wore them with trousers & suits [ Mods, skins, suedeheads & Jamaican rude boys ect ] . Trousers are cut above the ankle to show off the boots , still see people today wearing Clarks desert boots with suits here in the UK , grey tailored suit with black suede CDB, looks great .
I wear the Bushacre 2 and I find it quite nice, if not a bit uncomfortable (which is probably because it was my first boot).
I think I should do a comparison of the two one day, though I feel like the whole video would just be "the sole has more grip" haha
I think they are cool looking, but when I tried them on in the store I found that they were very narrow. Clarks doesn't offer wide widths so I tried on the next size up which were too long and still too narrow. They look good on you.
I think they are expensive for what they are, but they still look nice. They are definitely iconic, heritage from the 60s, George Harrison and Steve Mc QUeen. They look coo if you have a british style, but they can be more or less formal, You can go to a concert or put them with a smart look in the office. Very versatile.
In my experience, the sand color is very versatile and can be worn with more formal chinos and say a herringbone sports jacket, as well as navy blue jeans.
The most amazing footwear in the sixties here in the UK.
Could you tell me. Which type of this Clark ? And color? Of this Cool ur one
Afrikaners in South Africa have been wearing these for centuries. We call them either velskoene (skin shoes) or, more correctly, veldskoene (field shoes). They are traditionally the footwear of farmers, and are very comfortable in stirrups - both as farmers and commandos, Afrikaners spent much time in the saddle. They were never meant to be stylish. They are made in both leather and suede.
Very interesting, Phillip!
Hello i want buy this shoes but confused with the size.. do i need to actual size or one size bigger? Thank you for your answer
I appreciate the honest review. I had this boot on my "to get list" but the way you laid out the pros and cons made me realize I can pass on these boots. Nothing against them, they're just not for me.
I'm new to your channel and I hope it continues to grow. Good stuff.
Thanks a ton! I've had a couple of people say this review convinced them not to buy the shoes - and I thought this was a pretty positive review! Haha
Stridewise LOL
@@Stridewise It is a positive review; these boots are an acquired taste; they’re not for every guy; I love mine as I suspect you do!
Is this the SUede leather ?looks very soft
I'm sorry, but I let out a good chuckle when you have those with shorts haha
At 15 seconds, what kind of jeans are those? They look great with these boots.
Those are Levi's 513 slim straight, which they don't make much of anymore! You'd have to check to see if they're still available in that color.
@@Stridewise gotta be levis
HEADS UP if you're ever in London get yourself to Blackmans on Cheshire st, just off Brick Lane in - you can get basically the same boot but for £20, cant go wrong!
If I'm in London I'm getting some Loake boots !
£20, mate!
Isn’t it funny how these get you so many compliments. Some of my cheaper boots - such as Dr Martens (my work boots) and Red Wing moc toe (that I gave to my Dad) - have gotten me loads of compliments. Yet some of my more expensive boots, such as the Snowdon, Skye and Russian Radnor by Crockett & Jones, seldom get compliments outside of hardcore shoe and boot lovers.
Exactly!
That’s because most people have no idea about good shoes.
You can buy Thursday Boots Chukka boots for $149
and they look a lot better too! Lol
For a future video could you do a follow up with the made in Italy and England versions? I read they just reopened a plant in England. I've owned a Vietnamese made pair in Beeswax for a while and loved them and recently picked up a pair of Original Desert boots off of ebay. They were practically new and the orange stitching they had caught my eye. I discovered in the inside they were labeled made in England. Point is that they just feel of a higher quality. Great channel, I made sure to subscribe.
Thanks Victor! Yeah I really want to take a look at the Desert Welt some day and maybe compare it to Thursday's Scout, two solid Goodyear welted chukkas for under $200.
I assumed the suede on clarks was simply synthetic suede, similar to what you would see on many skateboard shoes such as Vans. Are you sure it's real suede?
hi thanks for the video. What is your opinion about J Crew Kenton Men’s Leather Boots? may be you can say something about their quality and are they worthy to buy. May be review one day? Thanks
Out of curiosity, what would you say is the color? The oak suede is much brighter on the website.
Eh. Tan? Light khaki?
I wear ‘em (dark chocolate) with a gray flannel heavy chalk stripe suite with a matching suede belt. Got the idea from the late Sen. DPM (D-NY).
I had a pair and they did not fit correctly, The laces are set too low and they feel like they are falling off my feet
Yeah for a lot of people chukkas just don't feel right.
Steve Clarke i had the same problem, i just punched a few extra lace holes higher up, works good !
I've wanted a pair for quite some time. You just talked me out of it. Thanks for being honest.
Haha here I thought this was a somewhat positive review! We all value different aspects differently, I guess. Glad I could have been helpful :) As many have suggested, the Bushacre is pretty much the same but with a sturdier sole if that's your main issue, though I can't see it in Oakwood suede amzn.to/2uBVZrP
Try the bushacre 2 or 3 beeswax
which is better
No comment on the half-length footbed?!
Great review as always! Keep cranking out amazing content Nick! :)
You're the best! Thank you.
how do they compare to the red wing weekender chukka!?
way lighter, more flexible, and less durable. so it depends on your priorities!
@@Stridewise cool thanks :)
Whats the brand of that chukka
Clarks. it's in the title. i say it throughout the whole video!
Good question i have a pair of iron rangers that need a sole. Should i resole those for just under 150 or would it be good just to buy some of these clarks?
I'd resole the Iron Rangers, honestly! They'll last a lot longer.
I recently bought a new pair of suede Sanders Holborn Chukkas, but I also looked at the Church's Ryder lll, Loake Kempton and a couple of others. The Sanders are a G UK fit which is equivalent to a EE US width. The Sanders are a bit wide on me so I think I'm going to send them back. Not positive which boot I will buy, but if you have had any experience with quality suede chukkas, I'd appreciate your thoughts. Thanks, Brian
Hey Brian, I'm afraid I'm not quite an expert in chukkas! I quite like Red Wing's and Thursdays, can't quite remember off the top of my head what their suede is like, though.
I wear the bushacre 2 beeswax leather all summer long working hvac. They hold up for years. Takes months to break in though
Bushacres as work boots? Wow, I'll have to try them out, Shawn!
Great review, used to hear that Clarks makes great shoes, but never have the chance to try any yet. But I heard these boots are just legend. Hope could try one real soon
I'd say they're not really comfortable, with specific reference to the footbed. When I tried them on at the store, there was a sharp difference in rise between the forefoot bed and the heel, for lack of a shank. I've always wanted one, but I ended up not buying it. I understand that the Desert Coal model has addressed most of the cons of this model.
They say that the crepe sole is soft and squishy and that their are great for standing, but did you find that to be the case? Did you feel pressure in your heels?
@@DwyaneWadeCounty I can understand how crepe soles can be squishy and comfortable. It is, however, the way the sole of the Desert Boot is made, with a heel but with no shank. The downward transition was drastic such that I felt a sharp downward angle between my heels and the rest of my feet. I attribute it to the lack of a shank, which is quite discernible with a squishy sole. Hence, the Wallaby would be more comfortable since it has a flat sole.
Found a "worn only twice" pair on eBay just now for $35 plus $13 shipping. Figured why not?
Oh yeah, that's a good deal
Get the bushacre. The sole is much more durable.
Those soles are so damn hard though, and still wear slick in no time.
Ooh, a good compromise between the Desert boot and the Desert Welt. Good recommendation!
1 of my favorite summer footwear. Have you reviewed / compared Astroflex?
I only have two pairs of Clarks left, there was a time where that was the only brand of shoes I wore
Any chance you'll review the Red Wing Work Chukka? Seems like a nice blend of Americana esthetic with a British chukka boot.
Hey hi!!! Great video. When do you bought your Clarks?????
Thanks Chitesh! These were a couple of weeks old when I reviewed them, so not all that old. The sole gets black like that after the first day haha
Can you review Tecovas The Earl boot? it's a western boot but not gaudy or anything.
Not planning on doing Western boots any time soon, Miguel, but maybe down the line!
Good, in depth review. Love mine.
Donde las compro😍😘😘😘😘😘😘
Hello friend, this beautiful boot of the desert clarks, I would like to know what her color is, thank you
Oakwood suede
@@Stridewisetks friend
Great Review as always!
Thanks my man, glad to see you came back!
We rock them with anything in 🇯🇲
Clarks is the best🗣
Yeah I hear they're super popular in Jamaica! That's really interesting, I would be interested in learning why
Stridewise got got our independence from the english.... you can check out a few songs on youtube an see how much we love them...Vybz Kartel clarks
I wear Wallabees
Are they good year welted?
Stichdown. Still resoelable at pretty much any cobbler though.
No, they are theoretically resoleable. I have heard some cobblers dont want to deal with crepe. I have a five year old pair that are still wearable, and they're sneaker priced.
The guy at Clarks said it was a combination rapid stitch and cemented sole. Definitely not Goodyear welted, though The Desert Welt from Clarks is this boot with a Goodyear welt. To be honest if you want a Goodyear welted Desert boot it's a lot cheaper to get a $150 Scout Chukka from Thursday Boot Company.
Of course you can wear them with shorts.
However, Clarks are now made in the Far East and similar styles by other brands, such as Roamers desert boots, are a lot cheaper. That said, the soles on Roamers don’t last long but they are cheap enough that buying a new pair is cheaper than a resole for a standard leather shoe.
Yeah the resole-ability is always a toss up.
Of course they can be worn with shorts. You can wear anything with shorts. You can wear black oxfords if you want to.
Wear whatever you like. Make your own fashion rules.
I just ordered mine today, got a steal (60$ bucks). Size 8.
Nice work!
Absolute classic, look great with jeans and available in quite a few colours plus the beeswax leather which are killer...
The 190 dollar boots suede upper and textured crepe sole is very nice, considering that leather is from Stead. I’d like to see a review on that.
Yeah I like the idea of comparing this CDB to the fancy one, or the Asian made Doc Martens 1460 to the UK made, etc. etc. Popular versions and their fancier counterparts. Something for down the line!
Stridewise I just got the brown suede on sale 30% off so it came out to the same price As the Vietnam desert boot. The high end one is really nice, but I still wouldn’t pay 190 since it’s not worth the extra 60 bucks when compared to the 130. The 30% ford sealed the deal
Are they Durable?
Nah, not really.
@@Stridewise but they can be beaten up? Because i am new to boots and really like them
Because it the best chuka, following the Originals made in Egypt for North African troops especially Sas etc. I have 2 pairs and love them, well for summer, not really winter in Britain that's for sure. Oh and i wear mine with Jeans and Chinos all the time.
Chinos would be fine but slacks I would protest haha
I agree that they can work with shorts.
I actually prefer the cheaper bush acres with the regular brown rubber sole
A Mod staple.....
Ennit
That's weird. My father owns the same pair but they're not lined, it's just leather. Anyway I prefer the Bushacre 2 on the Beeswax finish because they're more structured, the sole is a more modern compound so it will be more comfortable and durable and the beeswax finish is just way more sturdy than suede and will look way better after some wear and tear, as they're coated with oils and waxes they never really stain, they will repel water drops (although I wouldn't purposely use them on wet days because the sole is not attached in a waterproof way).
yeah I hear a lot of guys prefer the Bushacre! I might have to give it a look as well.
Great review. By that, I mean an honest overview of the pros and cons of the boot by someone who knows a bit about them. I like the look but decided they are not for me.
Thanks a bunch, Keefe! It's funny I've had some people say it's a positive review and others say this review talked them out of buying the shoes, which I think means I did my job.
Agreed, I watched the video because i was interested in getting a pair. The review was very well presented and informative. However, after watching, I dont think they're for me. Thank you.
I wish that Thursday boots had the desert color with eyelet inserts.
That is surprising they don't have a desert chukka!
@@Stridewise I would purchase a desert chukka so fast if Thursday made it. But they also need to add metal eyelets to their chukka boots I'm afraid that laces would stretch out eyelets.
My mom always got me on Clark's since I was a kid , my mom knows
I love this video but I think the only weird part is he wearing them with shorts I don't know why that rubs me the wrong way but besides that these boots are some of the most comfortable boots ever these are the ones that got me into boots had mine for 2 years
I've had multiple pairs of Desert Boots. Unfortunately the construction is horrible. The soles separated from the uppers after a few months of regular wear. Wasn't worth resoling. Good review man!
Yeah that does not surprise me in the least haha. Glad you liked the vid!
Tried them on twice. The fit was super awkward and terrible. Sad as the crepe sole was super soft and lovely.
My fit wasn't perfect to be honest, you can see my pinky toes coming through the side of the shoe in the close ups. Fortunately the material was super soft so it wasn't a big deal.
Habitat skateboarding company made a pair i loved em as a kid I looked goofy as hell because Osiris an DVS were the shiznez
Best review I've found on RUclips..very informative and covers all area....great job!
Thanks so much Yossavin! Stay a while and watch some others :)
Extremely comfortable boot
True!
fred perry,vintage levi's and a pair of clarks desert boots classic mod atire
i just bought the same pair on sale for $ 70.00.
Just a great comfortable, kick around chukka with jeans, and dress up your casual with a button down shirt and sport coat. Great shoe, Clark also for years did a version with a moc toe, and crepe sole that was wedge shaped. ..great comfortable casual shoe...
Glad you like yours so much, Ron!
Best part is it is a low profile shoe..i am 33 and want to wear something that looks good and not fashionable , it is for me. If you are early 20s , may be it is not for you.
Nice review, and nice polo shirt, I wear the same one often. 😉
Haha the one from Uniqlo? Mine is so shapeless (like the boots) I need a new one. Been looking at the Vesper from Mack Weldon but I don't like how meshy it is.
Stridewise lol.. the lighting tricked me. I thought you may have had on a Sunspel. 😉
Even with socks (white) they go well with "bermudas" (long shorts): Safari style.
I believe it Marco!
This is Jamaica's national shoe!!!!
Haha nice, I didn't know that Romario.
Yes I have seen that Romario. I fly every month to Dominican Republic and at the stopover in Jamaica I see all the Jamaicans wearing them!
Man I didn't pay enough attention when I was in Jamaica
Stridewise lol..you should have asked. ..and did you know that the union jack and the Jamaican flag are the only flags to be officially on the boot. .lol #facts
Wore them in 60s
Looks comfy for a day off by the beach
Hey, Desert boots are made for sand, after all :)
Stridewise yeah the dust from the beach match the boot also
As always love your reviews man. I just get myself to like those crepe soles, though.
You know Red Wing's moc toe boots are made with a much more durable crepe sole if you kinda like them and kinda don't!
Stridewise more than the material or the feel it's the way it looks that I don't like.
I get that. I honestly had no idea it was the same material as Red Wing's moc toe though, turns out there can be a ton of difference in softness/durability among different crepe soles. Clark's is definitely on the softer/crappier side, haha. Keep an eye out for a review of Red Wing's moc toe in the future.
Stridewise I will, thank you.
Wallabees next, i hope?
I think if I do a "sequel" to this video it'll probably be the Desert Welt, although there does seem to be a lot of interest in a comparison of the Desert Boot and Wallabees so maybe I will write that up!
Australians meet out at swimming pools right next to the sea, where they wear their speedos, their sand colored chukka boots, and drink lots of beer from small tiny glasses.
Sure ok
Why would you even buy Thursday crepe sole boot? It’s not even a crepe sole to begin with. The whole point of the desertboot is the crepe sole. That’s like buying a chukka sneaker. Also CF Stead manufactures the suede on these boots, which is the premiere source of suede anywhere, so I think your statement about being cheap needs to be qualified. They are excellent to wear with chinos.
CF Stead doesn't produce the suede on these boots, I confirmed it with Clarks who spent several days researching it. They produce it for the Desert Welt and pricier boots. Re: Thursday I was talking about the Scout as a chukka boot, I didn't mean to imply their chukka has a crepe sole.
Stridewise my navy suede desert boots have cf stead’s logo on them. It may just be your specific ones, there’s a video made by cf Stead highlighting how they make the desert boot. This was produced only a few years ago.
Man now I'm extra confused. Perhaps I'll have to look deeper into it. Did you buy your shoes in Britain?
Stridewise No, off the US website. Yah I think it’s odd they told you that, yet one of my Clark’s has the Stead symbol inside. Makes no sense.
Yeah they told me it was made in Vietnam, i said can you double check, and they said yeah and called me back four days later to confirm "yes the leather itself is definitely made in Vietnam."
You gotta try ASTORFLEX!!
I think it makes more sense to just pay more for the Thursday Boot chukka.