I love the damn things! As something of a history buff they are easily one of my favourite shoes for their history throughout the 20th century, and as they're pretty affordable compared to a lot of shoes, and are a timeless piece, I think they're absolutely brilliant.
Gentleman's Gazette I have one that I got years ago but hardly wear them any more, as my shoe/boot collection grew over the years,now I have better looking boots for casual wear. These are perfect for high school/college kids
I worked in Clarks in the US for a few years. The term "Original" now pretty much means the line of shoes in Clarks. Pretty much anything with a crepe sole will be considered an Original, so Desert Treks, Desert Mali, Wallabees, and so on, and are usually available only on the Clarks retail stores or on their websites (and Amazon, I guess). Bushacre 2 is the cheaper, outlet alternative,- technically an Original but not really, which you can find in other retailers, but the sole and leather are significantly different: the sole on the Bushacre is a more synthetic rubber, cheaper leather material, and in my opinion, stiffer. I've had a lot of people claim that they found Desert Boots cheaper somewhere else, only to show me a picture of a Bushacre; not the same thing! Desert Boots generally run a half size, to a whole size bigger, so if you're a size 9, you might want to try an 8.5, or even an 8. So I'm surprised that yours run smaller. Keep in mind, they stretch once you break them in, and your boots look pretty new, so that might get really loose later on. In women's sizes, they run tight, so one may need to go up half a size, but they stretch out a lot, so don't go up too many sizes because once you wear them in, they'll be pretty loose (Stores also stretch any Clarks shoe for free, so if you buy a pair that's a little too tight, but is the right length, ask an associate to stretch it for you). Also, for those wondering, the Desert Boots don't come in wider widths. Again they stretch, so you might be lucky once you wear them in, but if you have a very wide foot, go with another style. The Bushacre 2 DOES come in wide, however just the beeswax, and not in the other colors . And the laces for the generic Desert Boots break easily. They don't give out free laces anymore, but they might have some available to purchase on the Clarks website (Provided they haven't sold out). If they're out, find a place that sells shoelaces and find the right length, they'll last longer anyway. Beeswax boots are generally more popular, in in my opinion, easier to maintain. Sure, they scratch and scuff as shown on the video, but just rub some beeswax on there with a rag and you'll have them look new again. Suede needs some cleaning, but is easier to break in and is just softer in general. Also, the have traction from the crepe, but they are NOT slip resistant, so don't use them where there's grease or oils (Have had people in restaurants ask if this is a good shoe for their job. No). The expensive, imported from England/Italy ones are handmade with higher materials, which is why it's more expensive. They're also sturdier from what I've seen. You also get seasonal colors that only come once a year, so if you like getting the Desert Boots in fancy colors, check the end of the season when the seasonal colors go on sale. (Beeswax, brown, black, and other neutral colors are available year round, so will not go on sale, and are pretty much always excluded from sales and promos. Read your fine print!!) Also, the quality has changed over the years, at least from what older customers have told me. I've had some die-hard fans ask us to hunt down older Desert Boots with a very specific SKU# because the newer versions "just don't feel the same". You'll be able to tell by the logos inside the insole, or even just the box- that's the most obvious sign. The older versions definitely won't be in the retail stores anymore, as they had all been shipped to the outlets when I still worked there, and even finding them in outlets will be difficult unless you wear a larger size shoe (like 12 or 13). For me, I'd agree and say it's worth it. It is pretty flat, so if anyone needs arch support, this may not be the shoe for you; unless you get a size larger and put an insole in. They last a very long time, and have a great casual or semi-formal look that has been in circulation for a long time, which means that it's definitely a Clarks favorite.
Michah Villanueva, hi, im confused about that beeswax leather. do they have the same texture as nubucks? my boot also has that kind of effect when you run your finger and it will create markings just like what he did 3:04, because im planning to buy cleaning/maintenance kit for my shoes
@@dcooper6857 Long response ahead, sorry! Beeswax is definitely a different material to nubuck. Beeswax will be a thick layer of leather with a coating of beeswax on it. It starts out really stiff, so it won't be comfortable if it's your first time wearing it. You're right, it does get scratches easily, and it gets lighter wherever you bend the leather. There's two options I've seen to get past that: 1, keep wearing it out so that it looks rugged. 2, put beeswax on it (if you're in the Clarks store, they sell it as "Weather Guard. ") It's a small container of wax, and you apply it on the shoes with a cloth. It takes the scratches away and makes it dark, but once it dries it goes back to the original color. (heat the wax up with a hair dryer or heat gun put on low if you don't want light streaks when it dries. Also waterproofs it!) If your boots are more aged, with a lot of creases, which will happen eventually, it will be harder to keep it looking brand new, but the wax will still reduce the scratches. Maybe use more wax to make sure it gets in the creases. Nubuck is essentially the underside of leather. If you've seen underneath some real leather jackets, you'll notice some fuzziness- that's nubuck. Nubuck Desert Boots will be a softer material (think of a less fuzzy version of suede) and easier to break in. However take care of it like suede. Just don't brush it with a hard brush. Any big scratches and stains you get on it will be permanent. So the best way to take care of it, in my opinion, is to buy Scotch Guard, or other colorless waterproofing sprays. That will at least protect it from spills and mild splashes. DON'T put wax, polish, or any other material on it, otherwise it will change the texture, or even the color. (Unless you want to. I put wax on a pair of black nubuck boots that I wanted to waterproof because I was fine with the texture changing, and it didn't change color because it was already black. So it's really up to you!)
Michah Villanueva very impressive and informative response. Can I ask you, I just bought a pair of the Bushacre 2 at a retailer like TJ Maxx and inside it’s labeled “Collection by Clarks”. Are these low grade that should be returned, or will they still be long lasting quality boots?
I've bought the vietnam version (dark brown suede) back in 2011. I've abused these boots immensely but they have aged beautifully. They can easily last a lifetime. Just bought my second pair (light grey seude). These boots is what got me into investing towards "quality goods" instead of buying "fast fashion" products.
I got my first pair of Clark's Desert Boots in 1956 and My first pair of Wallabee's in the early 1960's. I haven't been without a pair of either since.
I was in a bind and needed some nice looking boots for cheap. I saw these at Macy's on sale for $50 and immediately noticed they were stitch down and the suede felt great. I bought a pair and walked five miles in them the next day, could not be more happy with how they felt and looked. I will be wearing these exclusively through university. Mine is made in India
Been wearing these since about 1957. Got some on today in Paris, where they are popular and considered stylish. The perfect summer casual shoe. Go well with a blazer (tie) and khakis. When I visited Zimbabwe in 1984 they were de rigueur even with suits. Sand only.
@@PrincipalSkinner3190 This is a channel where the fit type is very classic. His opinion has very little weight, here. If he likes to have his legs look like twigs or sausages, he can go right ahead and have them look like that. But to comment what he did, would be akin to commenting "I think you all would look better in a suit and dress shoes", on a street wear channel.
@@Judge_RR He's saying that his personal taste differs slightly from the wearer's. I watch this channel and agree with many of the looks, but not with others. So should I unsubscribe because I don't adhere to 100% of the channel's looks?
@@PrincipalSkinner3190 For a principal, your critical thinking skills are lacking, a bit, and that is disappointing. Let me try this again: I understand what he is saying. However, it is futile to even express such opinions on this channel, and imply that he would have liked to see Sven in a trimmer fit; because trim anything is not the premise of this channel. And certainly, Sven would not agree with him. It is the norm these days for every guy to choose the tailored fit. A sheep without a Shepard is a wolf's dinner. Your arguments are not accepted, Mr.Skinner. You are dismissed.
I personally love the Clarks version of the desert boot because of its casualness. As a younger guy who appreciates quality clothing but doesn’t have a ton of extra money lying around, I think the CDB (especially on sale) is an excellent value and looks great with my much more casual wardrobe. They obviously don’t work well with suits or more dressy attire, but I find their rounded chunkiness to be the perfect match for a smarter casual outfit ie denim and an OCBD
I have a pair of clarks ive been wearing for 4 years now and they were originally wax leather. Now they've been weathered and the toe has a gradient from worn to least worn as it goes down. The more you wear something the better it looks I feel and I love the rugged look I achieved with my clarks
Mod where wearing these with suits In the 1960’s. It’s the boot that kicked-started a thousand scooters. From America college campus to the streets of London’s Soho it was the only boot to be seen in the summer time. A fine looking example of the shoemaker’s art!
Is this even a question? I would venture to say these are some of the greatest shoes of all time. I've had mine in olive suede for over 7 years and they just look better with time. Still in perfect condition as far as build quality all I've had to do is replace the laces. After years of heavy use literally not a single stitch has unraveled, sole hardly worn down, no separation etc. Timeless quality, timeless style. Go buy a pair- you'll wear them for the rest of your life.
The shoe was make popular by Clarke but the shoe that he copied was the South African Veldskoen, imported from South Africa to Cairo. The Veldskoen has been around since the 17th century, which itself was a copy of local Khoisan footwear.
Great video! Clarks desert boot- casual, timeless beater boot for all ages for the spring/summer months. Perfect for school, weekend errands, casual travel, or just relaxing. As casual as a sneaker but less formal than a dress shoe or dress boot. A great first boot if all you wear are sneakers or dress shoe. A chukka w/ a longer more chiseled toe box is more stylish and can be dressed up from a jeans/ chinos to a full suit, whereas the Clarks round toe work best dressed down paired with shorts, jeans, chinos (maybe a sport jacket but that might be over extending for some).
I bought my first pair of clarks desert boots 1964 same year as my fish tail parka, they were great times only things to be seen in, bought my lastest pair 2019.
In the early 70's I wore desert boots with one interesting, and I thought, very atractive difference. Rather than having visible stiches the uppers were stiched on the inside, giving what I felt was a slightly more elegant look to the useful casual shoes. I've never been able to find anything like those and would love to find something constructed in a similar manner. By the way, I picked up a pair of "Bata boots" in Kenya and wore them for something like 15 years before they became too soiled and stained to use. I had them resoled once, and never had any construction problems with the durable chukka boots by Bata.
Interesting that bata's safari boots were so sturdy back in the day. I've heard my father say the same thing. I think if you happen to buy another pair from Kenya today, you will be sorely disappointed.
The Vietnam version has been improved. Now has the original CS suede with a smooth texture on the inside, and is generally very well constructed. They also come with extra laces in a contrasting color.
I bought a pair of dark brown suede Lloyds chukka boots while traveling through Germany. So versatile and well made, I love them! Thanks for the content Sven!
IMO Clark's desert boots aren't worth more than $80-90. The Bushacre can be had for as low as $40-50. If you wan't a higher quality desert boot with crepe sole made in Italy, check out Astorflex. I believe they have a shank, while Clarks definitely doesn't.
I've got two pairs of Clark's Desert boots, and four pair of Clark's Wallabees (a dressier version of the boots). They're a great alternative to running/hiking shoes for every day wear.; especially when worn with either jeans or chinos.The more stylish Wallabees can also be worn with slacks, a jacket, shirt and tie. I've worn Clark's shoes for more than thirty years, and find them to be well-made and a good value for the money.
If your tastes run more towards the Mod style Clarks dessert boots are totally appropriate to a three button suit, though I prefer black wing tips with my tonic suit. I also have a pair of chisel toed desert boots that Ben Sherman put out one year. They have a small two stroke oil stain on the toe which lends them a little Mod streer credit. Lol.
i bought a pair of clarks today as a dress shoe. i have really wide feet and the only shoe i could find in the whole mall that fit were these. im excited to dress up soon
Desert London for me. The top edge of the boot always cut around my ankle and the lower style of the Desert London gave me the same look (and material) with a better fit.
So I bought mine in 1995 sand gray which historically explained is the original color. They were 95USD in a factory store here in Las Vegas. They fit so well and were so comfortable that I bought the waxed version for my travels in wet weather as they shed water better. And yes both have developed a great patina and I still wear them today with the only repair being replacing the laces when they wore out about 3 years ago. Oh and yes they were made in England. Classic bu I'm now in the process of buying a pair of rm Williams in chestnut. And yes they are still made in Australia.
I had a pair a few years ago and they became uncomfortable and I tended to turn my ankle in them a lot. I would not recommend these to people who are prone to foot pain or ankle turning. If that is your problem, I recommend the Keen Portsmouth
i have the Clarke's beeswax chukka boots (I wore them to work yesterday, actually). ) One drawback to them is that the topline above the heel is quite stiff when you first put it on and there are some issues with it running on the bottom of the calf/top of the heel. They are, however, very comfortable to walk in once they "warm up". The other drawback is that the toe cap is quite generous and they can look a little like clown shoes from a certain angle. Mine are made in India, IIRC and cost $92.
Oh, and curiously, the contrast in colour between the crepe and leather is less marke don mine - the crepe is more of a soft caramel colour, which I think looks better than the high contrast lighter crepe.
I don’t know about Clarks after sales care these days but I remember years ago my dad had a pair of Clarks shoes..had them for about 5 years, he practically wore the soles through, he took them to get re soled and the guy told him to take them back to Clarks as they do it for free, he ended up walking away with a brand new pair free of charge 😁
I love my Clark's desert boots....I hear what this fellow is saying, very informative!!! But I disagree with HIS choice in style, as I feel, and am sure HE does as well, a matter of personal preference....
I've been wearing desert boots for about 8 years, my one complaint is that the crepe sole isn't waterproof. Even walking on wet sidewalk for a long time leads to wet socks.
In May 1977 I was walking along the streets of Aleppo, in Syria, wearing my suede Clarks desert boots and looking at the sights. All of a sudden, for no reason, the welt on the right boot snapped like a twig -- a complete transverse break -- leaving me lame and without shoes in a strange city. There was no way they could be repaired. Never in a lifetime of shoe ownership has such a thing happened. Clarks' quality control was so poor that they had put into their iconic boots a piece of leather that was brittle and not properly tanned. Since then I have never purchased a Clarks product, nor will I ever again.
Onto my 2nd pair of Vietnamese made Beeswax versions. The first built up amazing levels of character through five years of abuse. Unambiguously the best value I've ever had from footwear. I purchased the second pair one size down, they took a few months and considerable pain to break in but now they feel as if they were made for me.
In my opinion, the quality has gone down over time so they can meet demand. Still better than other options out there but you could get something better.
I too don't like matching the belt 100% with the shoes, keeping it in the same category - or realm, as you said - is most smart. For me, if I'm wearing blue shoes I don't wear a blue belt - if I had a blue belt, it would be too unique of a design/colour so it would just look off and odd with any blue shoe of any material - so instead of blue belt I go with brown belt with the blue shoes. Conversely, going with a blue belt and brown shoes is a no-no by default. Unless it was workable depending on the specific features of the outfit, it should never be done.
The Clarks Desert Boots are very comfortable. However, you must be careful because the heel will wear down quickly depending on how much there are worn. They can be worn with suits. However, not with wool suits. Chino suiting or linen suiting maybe. With these suits I found that the Dark Brown suede Clarks with the dark brown sole, NOT the light brown or sand colored soles can work. Suffice it to say, the Clarks Desert Boots are worth every penny. Dark Brown and Sand are the go-to colors.
I bought a pairs of clarks boots 10 years ago when I was in university due to my fondness of English heritage. However, I probably won't buy another pairs because their soles are kinda soft and thin, I fell like I won't stand and walk as still compared to other leather shoes. I am now thinking about resoling my pairs with Vibram soles. And just like Raphael said, they are only worth invest if you prefer to dress down and wear jeans.
I feel the same way- shoes should be slimming and not round and clunky. With that said.. I still bought the beeswax chukka! It felt like it was a must have for those rugged outdoorsy days.
Another Clarks Desert Boot not mentioned, though it is essentially a Desert Boot - The Bushacre 2. The main difference is that it has a longer-wearing synthetic rubber sole instead of the crepe one. I've had a few pairs and will never buy another since I figured out that the unstructured nature and lack of support these provide gave me foot problems which had to be treated by a doctor. No more floppy unstructured shoes for me of any type... A few years back I had a nice take on a desert boot done by Cheaney out of the UK. Those fit more like a nice pair of structured dress shoes and didn't have the support issues that Clarks have. Knowing what I know now I wouldn't recommend Clarks to anyone.
Didnt this style come from south africa and then found it's way to Egypt and was used by the Egyptian army. Thats when the Clark's founder found the style in an Egyptian bazaar. They are called vellies in our country. Veldskoen makes some of the best ones and are better quality than Clark's, they say. Not sure as I dont own one but I would really like to get this style. Keep up the good work.
Everyone needs a casual option from time to time.. but I don't have a Clark's version I have a pair of Walkover sand color shoes, and blue Ralph Lauran chukka boots... amongst about 200 pairs of others...
Interesting video, given that it focuses on a specific shoe by a specific brand. Growing up in the UK, my parents generally bought me Clarke's shoes (normally black derbies) to wear for school, and they did a fine and reasonably priced job for that. However, they have decided to put their brand name on the side of all their leather shoes now, which looks really bad if you want to wear the shoes to look smart for work or for going out. It's a shame as I know this will cut some of their prospective customer base out.
I had a pair of Clarks back in the 70s they were comfortable but they were made badley the toungue would always come out when ya walk I never bought another pair and yes Clarks still sell that pair, Several companies are in Vietnam now ,they are not made very good ,kinda small. I just bought a name brand boot that was made in Vietnam ,they are smaller in size as well.
the history of the desert boot goes further back to the 17th century in the dry karoo region of South Africa. The Dutch combined the native Khoisan shoe with their own 17th century Dutch shoe designs worn by the sailors to form what is called the Veldskoen, Dutch Afrikaans for field shoe.
They are designed for walking on the desert , I mean they are good for walk on the soft surfaces, but not on the paved roads, where the surface is hard, I had an experience with the boots that day wearing them walking on the city, my forefoot were seriously hurt, really uncomfortable that night I put off the boots, now they are putting in the corner waiting opportunity to be put on again, anyway I like them.
I disagree on the sizing, size down on these! I have the beeswax, these are more hard wearing but not as comfortable as the suede shoes. Clarke’s is only 15 minutes away from me, so it’s great to see a video on theses shoes.
Since the suede leather is just your waxed leather flipped over I would prefer the waxed leather on the outside of my boot. Its both easier to clean and easier to maintain. It looks like the waxed leather is a bit thinner so that's going to be where the savings come in in terms of manufacturing cost. They sand it down do you don't see the scars and but bites and what not from the animals skin but its more than likely the same tanning method being used between both leathers even if they are coming from different tannerys. I will say that the insole of the Made in Italy does look like an actual piece of veg tanned leather and that could be a major decision maker as far as what to buy. It looks like the insole on the other two boots are possibly synthetic or just extremely thin pieces of leather.
I've recently bought a pair of the sand suede boots. They are made in Italy and have the same sole as the leather ones you show in the video. I paid £74 for mine. I bought them primarily for summer. I think they're worth £74 even if they're made in Italy and not here in England.
I bought the desert boots a few years ago. Initially I loved them, but then I gradually hated them. The arch support is non-existent so I had to buy in-soles. But then the in-soles would make my boots feel a bit strange. They look nice but so uncomfortable.
the originals in clarks originals refers to their heritage/lifestyle line, not to the original model/colorway released. you can find the desert trek, wallabee, lugger, natalie or the newer trigenic among others. while the clarks main line covers their dress shoes
I have the waxed brown leather with the brown rubber sole and a pair of the black waxed leather with the crepe sole. I pretty much live in the brown ones.
Did they get rid of the $190 made-in-Italy one? The website as of August 17th, 2024 only has the $150 ones. The only color that is $190 is black crocodile distress.
You can get a different brand to Clarks and save a lot of money on what is really Summer footwear in the UK. Roomers desert boots are between £25 to £30. Soles don’t last forever but at that price they area disposable item.
It makes sense why you wouldn’t recommend Clark’s. They really aren’t your style based on your audience and style, but these are very versatile boots. I highly recommend style ogs look book on desert boots.
What's your take on Clarks Desert boots?
Its good to own one in one's life time..I am a big fan of Chukka boots.
A little basic/casual for me, I prefer a chukka with a leather or Danite sole. That said they aren't a lot of money for what they are.
I love the damn things! As something of a history buff they are easily one of my favourite shoes for their history throughout the 20th century, and as they're pretty affordable compared to a lot of shoes, and are a timeless piece, I think they're absolutely brilliant.
Gentleman's Gazette I have one that I got years ago but hardly wear them any more, as my shoe/boot collection grew over the years,now I have better looking boots for casual wear. These are perfect for high school/college kids
My feet are between an A and a B width. If I wanted a pair of boots like these, they'd have to be custom made.
I worked in Clarks in the US for a few years. The term "Original" now pretty much means the line of shoes in Clarks. Pretty much anything with a crepe sole will be considered an Original, so Desert Treks, Desert Mali, Wallabees, and so on, and are usually available only on the Clarks retail stores or on their websites (and Amazon, I guess). Bushacre 2 is the cheaper, outlet alternative,- technically an Original but not really, which you can find in other retailers, but the sole and leather are significantly different: the sole on the Bushacre is a more synthetic rubber, cheaper leather material, and in my opinion, stiffer. I've had a lot of people claim that they found Desert Boots cheaper somewhere else, only to show me a picture of a Bushacre; not the same thing!
Desert Boots generally run a half size, to a whole size bigger, so if you're a size 9, you might want to try an 8.5, or even an 8. So I'm surprised that yours run smaller. Keep in mind, they stretch once you break them in, and your boots look pretty new, so that might get really loose later on. In women's sizes, they run tight, so one may need to go up half a size, but they stretch out a lot, so don't go up too many sizes because once you wear them in, they'll be pretty loose (Stores also stretch any Clarks shoe for free, so if you buy a pair that's a little too tight, but is the right length, ask an associate to stretch it for you). Also, for those wondering, the Desert Boots don't come in wider widths. Again they stretch, so you might be lucky once you wear them in, but if you have a very wide foot, go with another style. The Bushacre 2 DOES come in wide, however just the beeswax, and not in the other colors .
And the laces for the generic Desert Boots break easily. They don't give out free laces anymore, but they might have some available to purchase on the Clarks website (Provided they haven't sold out). If they're out, find a place that sells shoelaces and find the right length, they'll last longer anyway.
Beeswax boots are generally more popular, in in my opinion, easier to maintain. Sure, they scratch and scuff as shown on the video, but just rub some beeswax on there with a rag and you'll have them look new again. Suede needs some cleaning, but is easier to break in and is just softer in general. Also, the have traction from the crepe, but they are NOT slip resistant, so don't use them where there's grease or oils (Have had people in restaurants ask if this is a good shoe for their job. No).
The expensive, imported from England/Italy ones are handmade with higher materials, which is why it's more expensive. They're also sturdier from what I've seen.
You also get seasonal colors that only come once a year, so if you like getting the Desert Boots in fancy colors, check the end of the season when the seasonal colors go on sale. (Beeswax, brown, black, and other neutral colors are available year round, so will not go on sale, and are pretty much always excluded from sales and promos. Read your fine print!!)
Also, the quality has changed over the years, at least from what older customers have told me. I've had some die-hard fans ask us to hunt down older Desert Boots with a very specific SKU# because the newer versions "just don't feel the same". You'll be able to tell by the logos inside the insole, or even just the box- that's the most obvious sign. The older versions definitely won't be in the retail stores anymore, as they had all been shipped to the outlets when I still worked there, and even finding them in outlets will be difficult unless you wear a larger size shoe (like 12 or 13).
For me, I'd agree and say it's worth it. It is pretty flat, so if anyone needs arch support, this may not be the shoe for you; unless you get a size larger and put an insole in. They last a very long time, and have a great casual or semi-formal look that has been in circulation for a long time, which means that it's definitely a Clarks favorite.
Michah Villanueva, hi, im confused about that beeswax leather. do they have the same texture as nubucks? my boot also has that kind of effect when you run your finger and it will create markings just like what he did 3:04, because im planning to buy cleaning/maintenance kit for my shoes
@@dcooper6857 Long response ahead, sorry!
Beeswax is definitely a different material to nubuck. Beeswax will be a thick layer of leather with a coating of beeswax on it. It starts out really stiff, so it won't be comfortable if it's your first time wearing it. You're right, it does get scratches easily, and it gets lighter wherever you bend the leather. There's two options I've seen to get past that: 1, keep wearing it out so that it looks rugged. 2, put beeswax on it (if you're in the Clarks store, they sell it as "Weather Guard. ") It's a small container of wax, and you apply it on the shoes with a cloth. It takes the scratches away and makes it dark, but once it dries it goes back to the original color. (heat the wax up with a hair dryer or heat gun put on low if you don't want light streaks when it dries. Also waterproofs it!)
If your boots are more aged, with a lot of creases, which will happen eventually, it will be harder to keep it looking brand new, but the wax will still reduce the scratches. Maybe use more wax to make sure it gets in the creases.
Nubuck is essentially the underside of leather. If you've seen underneath some real leather jackets, you'll notice some fuzziness- that's nubuck. Nubuck Desert Boots will be a softer material (think of a less fuzzy version of suede) and easier to break in. However take care of it like suede. Just don't brush it with a hard brush. Any big scratches and stains you get on it will be permanent. So the best way to take care of it, in my opinion, is to buy Scotch Guard, or other colorless waterproofing sprays. That will at least protect it from spills and mild splashes. DON'T put wax, polish, or any other material on it, otherwise it will change the texture, or even the color. (Unless you want to. I put wax on a pair of black nubuck boots that I wanted to waterproof because I was fine with the texture changing, and it didn't change color because it was already black. So it's really up to you!)
Thank sir, quite a good read!
Yeah, great and informative response. Thanks Micah, I had a good time reading it.
Michah Villanueva very impressive and informative response. Can I ask you, I just bought a pair of the Bushacre 2 at a retailer like TJ Maxx and inside it’s labeled “Collection by Clarks”. Are these low grade that should be returned, or will they still be long lasting quality boots?
I've bought the vietnam version (dark brown suede) back in 2011. I've abused these boots immensely but they have aged beautifully. They can easily last a lifetime. Just bought my second pair (light grey seude). These boots is what got me into investing towards "quality goods" instead of buying "fast fashion" products.
i got mine on 2012 and still kicking, apparently the new ones now are lower quality, not busacre but the $120 ones
Those are the nicest ones
I got my first pair of Clark's Desert Boots in 1956 and My first pair of Wallabee's in the early 1960's. I haven't been without a pair of either since.
Just got my first pair of Clark’s. As someone stepping up their wardrobe but also a Jamaican (Clark’s are a hallmark shoe for us) I’m excited.
I love how he mentioned how they where popular with the mod subculture! 🎯
I bought a pair of these boot at my local Burlington for $20 the Vietnam version, I use them daily I love them. Definitely worth for me
I was in a bind and needed some nice looking boots for cheap. I saw these at Macy's on sale for $50 and immediately noticed they were stitch down and the suede felt great. I bought a pair and walked five miles in them the next day, could not be more happy with how they felt and looked. I will be wearing these exclusively through university. Mine is made in India
I'd have to say when I was a kid some 55 years ago every September my mom would take me to get a new pair of Clarks desert boots loved them
Been wearing these since about 1957. Got some on today in Paris, where they are popular and considered stylish. The perfect summer casual shoe. Go well with a blazer (tie) and khakis. When I visited Zimbabwe in 1984 they were de rigueur even with suits. Sand only.
I miss my dad he likes these kind of shoes
He is a very stylish man 👍
Rip 🙏
I love desert boots, but this jeans are too baggy for my taste, I think the boots would have been better with a more fitted jeans.
wrong channel, amigo
@@Judge_RR No, its not. He can have his opinion.
@@PrincipalSkinner3190 This is a channel where the fit type is very classic. His opinion has very little weight, here. If he likes to have his legs look like twigs or sausages, he can go right ahead and have them look like that. But to comment what he did, would be akin to commenting "I think you all would look better in a suit and dress shoes", on a street wear channel.
@@Judge_RR He's saying that his personal taste differs slightly from the wearer's. I watch this channel and agree with many of the looks, but not with others. So should I unsubscribe because I don't adhere to 100% of the channel's looks?
@@PrincipalSkinner3190 For a principal, your critical thinking skills are lacking, a bit, and that is disappointing. Let me try this again: I understand what he is saying. However, it is futile to even express such opinions on this channel, and imply that he would have liked to see Sven in a trimmer fit; because trim anything is not the premise of this channel. And certainly, Sven would not agree with him. It is the norm these days for every guy to choose the tailored fit. A sheep without a Shepard is a wolf's dinner. Your arguments are not accepted, Mr.Skinner. You are dismissed.
I personally love the Clarks version of the desert boot because of its casualness. As a younger guy who appreciates quality clothing but doesn’t have a ton of extra money lying around, I think the CDB (especially on sale) is an excellent value and looks great with my much more casual wardrobe. They obviously don’t work well with suits or more dressy attire, but I find their rounded chunkiness to be the perfect match for a smarter casual outfit ie denim and an OCBD
I have a pair of clarks ive been wearing for 4 years now and they were originally wax leather. Now they've been weathered and the toe has a gradient from worn to least worn as it goes down. The more you wear something the better it looks I feel and I love the rugged look I achieved with my clarks
Mod where wearing these with suits In the 1960’s. It’s the boot that kicked-started a thousand scooters. From America college campus to the streets of London’s Soho it was the only boot to be seen in the summer time. A fine looking example of the shoemaker’s art!
Is this even a question? I would venture to say these are some of the greatest shoes of all time. I've had mine in olive suede for over 7 years and they just look better with time. Still in perfect condition as far as build quality all I've had to do is replace the laces. After years of heavy use literally not a single stitch has unraveled, sole hardly worn down, no separation etc. Timeless quality, timeless style. Go buy a pair- you'll wear them for the rest of your life.
The shoe was make popular by Clarke but the shoe that he copied was the South African Veldskoen, imported from South Africa to Cairo. The Veldskoen has been around since the 17th century, which itself was a copy of local Khoisan footwear.
Great video! Clarks desert boot- casual, timeless beater boot for all ages for the spring/summer months. Perfect for school, weekend errands, casual travel, or just relaxing. As casual as a sneaker but less formal than a dress shoe or dress boot. A great first boot if all you wear are sneakers or dress shoe. A chukka w/ a longer more chiseled toe box is more stylish and can be dressed up from a jeans/ chinos to a full suit, whereas the Clarks round toe work best dressed down paired with shorts, jeans, chinos (maybe a sport jacket but that might be over extending for some).
Love this shoe. I have been wearing these since "Woodstock Baby!
I bought my first pair of clarks desert boots 1964 same year as my fish tail parka, they were great times only things to be seen in, bought my lastest pair 2019.
In the early 70's I wore desert boots with one interesting, and I thought, very atractive difference. Rather than having visible stiches the uppers were stiched on the inside, giving what I felt was a slightly more elegant look to the useful casual shoes. I've never been able to find anything like those and would love to find something constructed in a similar manner.
By the way, I picked up a pair of "Bata boots" in Kenya and wore them for something like 15 years before they became too soiled and stained to use. I had them resoled once, and never had any construction problems with the durable chukka boots by Bata.
Interesting that bata's safari boots were so sturdy back in the day. I've heard my father say the same thing. I think if you happen to buy another pair from Kenya today, you will be sorely disappointed.
The Vietnam version has been improved. Now has the original CS suede with a smooth texture on the inside, and is generally very well constructed. They also come with extra laces in a contrasting color.
I’ve loved suede Clark’s since I was kid.
I bought a pair of dark brown suede Lloyds chukka boots while traveling through Germany. So versatile and well made, I love them! Thanks for the content Sven!
IMO Clark's desert boots aren't worth more than $80-90. The Bushacre can be had for as low as $40-50. If you wan't a higher quality desert boot with crepe sole made in Italy, check out Astorflex. I believe they have a shank, while Clarks definitely doesn't.
Sven always has exclusive information, nobody else can provide.
Absolutely loving the new graphics!
I've got two pairs of Clark's Desert boots, and four pair of Clark's Wallabees (a dressier version of the boots). They're a great alternative to running/hiking shoes for every day wear.; especially when worn with either jeans or chinos.The more stylish Wallabees can also be worn with slacks, a jacket, shirt and tie.
I've worn Clark's shoes for more than thirty years, and find them to be well-made and a good value for the money.
UPDATE - I'm up to 9 pairs of Clarks as of Jan 2020.
If your tastes run more towards the Mod style Clarks dessert boots are totally appropriate to a three button suit, though I prefer black wing tips with my tonic suit. I also have a pair of chisel toed desert boots that Ben Sherman put out one year. They have a small two stroke oil stain on the toe which lends them a little Mod streer credit. Lol.
Always appreciate his Nod to Mod!
i bought a pair of clarks today as a dress shoe. i have really wide feet and the only shoe i could find in the whole mall that fit were these. im excited to dress up soon
Great rundown! You should check out Paul Evans and their chukka boots... excellent quality.
Desert London for me. The top edge of the boot always cut around my ankle and the lower style of the Desert London gave me the same look (and material) with a better fit.
So I bought mine in 1995 sand gray which historically explained is the original color. They were 95USD in a factory store here in Las Vegas. They fit so well and were so comfortable that I bought the waxed version for my travels in wet weather as they shed water better. And yes both have developed a great patina and I still wear them today with the only repair being replacing the laces when they wore out about 3 years ago. Oh and yes they were made in England. Classic bu I'm now in the process of buying a pair of rm Williams in chestnut. And yes they are still made in Australia.
Of course they are!
I mean 'real' ones (made by clarks) are like £90 in the UK.
Dutch 1664 I know you can pick them up cheaper if you look around but I didn't have any problem with paying 90
Got some for £29.99 at tk maxx about 2 months ago. Clarks made in Vietnam with the more textured sole and Charles stead logo on the inside. Bargain
I had a pair a few years ago and they became uncomfortable and I tended to turn my ankle in them a lot. I would not recommend these to people who are prone to foot pain or ankle turning. If that is your problem, I recommend the Keen Portsmouth
You're right they are essentially simple indoor slippers and attract people infected by nostalgia.
I love the wallabee high boot 🔥🔥
i have the Clarke's beeswax chukka boots (I wore them to work yesterday, actually). ) One drawback to them is that the topline above the heel is quite stiff when you first put it on and there are some issues with it running on the bottom of the calf/top of the heel. They are, however, very comfortable to walk in once they "warm up". The other drawback is that the toe cap is quite generous and they can look a little like clown shoes from a certain angle. Mine are made in India, IIRC and cost $92.
Oh, and curiously, the contrast in colour between the crepe and leather is less marke don mine - the crepe is more of a soft caramel colour, which I think looks better than the high contrast lighter crepe.
I don’t know about Clarks after sales care these days but I remember years ago my dad had a pair of Clarks shoes..had them for about 5 years, he practically wore the soles through, he took them to get re soled and the guy told him to take them back to Clarks as they do it for free, he ended up walking away with a brand new pair free of charge 😁
Thank you for posting this! I was looking into these boots and now I know I’ll be picking some up.
I love my Clark's desert boots....I hear what this fellow is saying, very informative!!! But I disagree with HIS choice in style, as I feel, and am sure HE does as well, a matter of personal preference....
I love Clarks Desert Boots. I've been wearing for years now.
I love my Clark's their old school classic's 😁👈🏾🤘🏾
I've been wearing desert boots for about 8 years, my one complaint is that the crepe sole isn't waterproof. Even walking on wet sidewalk for a long time leads to wet socks.
maybe because there's not much water in the deserts
Roomers are the best I wore them in the British Army and still wear them today in the summer with a beige cotton suit!
I love Desert Boots because they are so unpretentious.
lol
In May 1977 I was walking along the streets of Aleppo, in Syria, wearing my suede Clarks desert boots and looking at the sights. All of a sudden, for no reason, the welt on the right boot snapped like a twig -- a complete transverse break -- leaving me lame and without shoes in a strange city. There was no way they could be repaired. Never in a lifetime of shoe ownership has such a thing happened. Clarks' quality control was so poor that they had put into their iconic boots a piece of leather that was brittle and not properly tanned. Since then I have never purchased a Clarks product, nor will I ever again.
Call, 1 800 CRY BABY
@@rullmourn1142 lol
GREAT editing in this video!
I won the lottery! I bought a pair of shoes on a thrift shop almost new for $2.50, man people didn’t know what they were selling.
I'll wear it in suede or leather canvas, every color
Onto my 2nd pair of Vietnamese made Beeswax versions. The first built up amazing levels of character through five years of abuse. Unambiguously the best value I've ever had from footwear.
I purchased the second pair one size down, they took a few months and considerable pain to break in but now they feel as if they were made for me.
It's the first time I've seen Sven in casual look😂
In my opinion, the quality has gone down over time so they can meet demand. Still better than other options out there but you could get something better.
I just love this kind of boot! Gonna start buying more of them....
Love mine, bought them on eBay for$30
I used to make them back in the seventies when I was at Clarks shoes Australia
Great review. Thank God you didn't bore me with the stupid unboxing gig so many reviewers employ. Keep up the good work.
I too don't like matching the belt 100% with the shoes, keeping it in the same category - or realm, as you said - is most smart. For me, if I'm wearing blue shoes I don't wear a blue belt - if I had a blue belt, it would be too unique of a design/colour so it would just look off and odd with any blue shoe of any material - so instead of blue belt I go with brown belt with the blue shoes.
Conversely, going with a blue belt and brown shoes is a no-no by default. Unless it was workable depending on the specific features of the outfit, it should never be done.
I've always wanted pair of these, just wish the sole had more traction.
The Clarks Desert Boots are very comfortable. However, you must be careful because the heel will wear down quickly depending on how much there are worn. They can be worn with suits. However, not with wool suits. Chino suiting or linen suiting maybe. With these suits I found that the Dark Brown suede Clarks with the dark brown sole, NOT the light brown or sand colored soles can work. Suffice it to say, the Clarks Desert Boots are worth every penny. Dark Brown and Sand are the go-to colors.
I bought a pairs of clarks boots 10 years ago when I was in university due to my fondness of English heritage. However, I probably won't buy another pairs because their soles are kinda soft and thin, I fell like I won't stand and walk as still compared to other leather shoes. I am now thinking about resoling my pairs with Vibram soles. And just like Raphael said, they are only worth invest if you prefer to dress down and wear jeans.
I feel the same way- shoes should be slimming and not round and clunky. With that said.. I still bought the beeswax chukka! It felt like it was a must have for those rugged outdoorsy days.
How are they holding up ?
This shoes started in South Africa called vellies.
Another Clarks Desert Boot not mentioned, though it is essentially a Desert Boot - The Bushacre 2. The main difference is that it has a longer-wearing synthetic rubber sole instead of the crepe one. I've had a few pairs and will never buy another since I figured out that the unstructured nature and lack of support these provide gave me foot problems which had to be treated by a doctor. No more floppy unstructured shoes for me of any type...
A few years back I had a nice take on a desert boot done by Cheaney out of the UK. Those fit more like a nice pair of structured dress shoes and didn't have the support issues that Clarks have. Knowing what I know now I wouldn't recommend Clarks to anyone.
The bushacre 2 is only 60 bucks on Amazon too. And to be honest 60 bucks is all I'd pay for these boots.
dietchapstick lose some weight and you should be ok to wear them again
Didnt this style come from south africa and then found it's way to Egypt and was used by the Egyptian army. Thats when the Clark's founder found the style in an Egyptian bazaar. They are called vellies in our country. Veldskoen makes some of the best ones and are better quality than Clark's, they say. Not sure as I dont own one but I would really like to get this style. Keep up the good work.
Just got my 1st pair of Navy blue chukkas, but definitely the sand suede will be my next purchase. Thanks for the info.!
I love my beeswax desert Clark boots
Everyone needs a casual option from time to time.. but I don't have a Clark's version I have a pair of Walkover sand color shoes, and blue Ralph Lauran chukka boots... amongst about 200 pairs of others...
Interesting video, given that it focuses on a specific shoe by a specific brand. Growing up in the UK, my parents generally bought me Clarke's shoes (normally black derbies) to wear for school, and they did a fine and reasonably priced job for that. However, they have decided to put their brand name on the side of all their leather shoes now, which looks really bad if you want to wear the shoes to look smart for work or for going out. It's a shame as I know this will cut some of their prospective customer base out.
Clark's is quality for sure. Worth it based on the information he mentioned
Ask a jamaican if they like Clark's
Even a Trini, the answer is a definite Yes..... Clarks we prefer !
Yup... We do,
Lol why
@@naegleriafowleri2230 bcuz almost every Jamaican own one 😂
Brand new clarks pon foot!!!🔥🔥
I had a pair of Clarks back in the 70s they were comfortable but they were made badley the toungue would always come out when ya walk I never bought another pair and yes Clarks still sell that pair, Several companies are in Vietnam now ,they are not made very good ,kinda small. I just bought a name brand boot that was made in Vietnam ,they are smaller in size as well.
i bought the wax version for like 25 dollars and i love them
I have a pair of custom made green suede version with crepe soles . Worth every penny
the history of the desert boot goes further back to the 17th century in the dry karoo region of South Africa. The Dutch combined the native Khoisan shoe with their own 17th century Dutch shoe designs worn by the sailors to form what is called the Veldskoen, Dutch Afrikaans for field shoe.
They are designed for walking on the desert , I mean they are good for walk on the soft surfaces, but not on the paved roads, where the surface is hard, I had an experience with the boots that day wearing them walking on the city, my forefoot were seriously hurt, really uncomfortable that night I put off the boots, now they are putting in the corner waiting opportunity to be put on again, anyway I like them.
I just went to the Clarks store on Madison Ave in New York, Wallabees in every color, we're hot for the summer !
I disagree on the sizing, size down on these! I have the beeswax, these are more hard wearing but not as comfortable as the suede shoes. Clarke’s is only 15 minutes away from me, so it’s great to see a video on theses shoes.
Since the suede leather is just your waxed leather flipped over I would prefer the waxed leather on the outside of my boot. Its both easier to clean and easier to maintain. It looks like the waxed leather is a bit thinner so that's going to be where the savings come in in terms of manufacturing cost. They sand it down do you don't see the scars and but bites and what not from the animals skin but its more than likely the same tanning method being used between both leathers even if they are coming from different tannerys. I will say that the insole of the Made in Italy does look like an actual piece of veg tanned leather and that could be a major decision maker as far as what to buy. It looks like the insole on the other two boots are possibly synthetic or just extremely thin pieces of leather.
I still wear them today leather mostly due to more wet weather , but suede in summer
So what should we buy instead of clarks? Please make a dedicated video it will help us alot
I've recently bought a pair of the sand suede boots. They are made in Italy and have the same sole as the leather ones you show in the video. I paid £74 for mine. I bought them primarily for summer. I think they're worth £74 even if they're made in Italy and not here in England.
The tan ones were the preferred footwear of most surfers back in the day, and they cost 12.95-15.95.
Raphael, you should do a video about your book collection or your favorites
I bought the desert boots a few years ago. Initially I loved them, but then I gradually hated them. The arch support is non-existent so I had to buy in-soles. But then the in-soles would make my boots feel a bit strange. They look nice but so uncomfortable.
They are indeed not comfortable and totally useless in rainy environments. 130 dollars is way overpriced for these.
The British army issued this style of boot but they had thicker soles. I saw them during Deserted Storm. 1990-91
Britsh Walker
The all black ones are brilliant, i wear them as a daily shoe
the originals in clarks originals refers to their heritage/lifestyle line, not to the original model/colorway released. you can find the desert trek, wallabee, lugger, natalie or the newer trigenic among others. while the clarks main line covers their dress shoes
British Walker
I have the waxed brown leather with the brown rubber sole and a pair of the black waxed leather with the crepe sole. I pretty much live in the brown ones.
Did they get rid of the $190 made-in-Italy one? The website as of August 17th, 2024 only has the $150 ones. The only color that is $190 is black crocodile distress.
Love my desert boots, very comfortable and stylish.
OMG I USE TO WEAR EM IN THE 60'S N 70'S MOSTLY AVAIL. WER THE TAN DESERT COLOR AN A SOFT SUEDE/KINDA HAD A ''BUCKSKIN'' LOOK ...VERY COMFT.
Best boots paired with straight fit jeans.
I have two pairs, love them for spring and summer.
I find crepe soles lethal in wet weather, I fell over twice when I was walking home after a downpour.
It's for environmental with zero rain.
The break in on these are none to little. The beeswax version does a little, but once formed. The leather is durable, for an everyday wear.
Thanks for the information
You can get a different brand to Clarks and save a lot of money on what is really Summer footwear in the UK. Roomers desert boots are between £25 to £30. Soles don’t last forever but at that price they area disposable item.
Roamers desert boots not Roomers.
It makes sense why you wouldn’t recommend Clark’s. They really aren’t your style based on your audience and style, but these are very versatile boots. I highly recommend style ogs look book on desert boots.
2:43 gotta love Mr Raphael's sarcasm hahaha
Rider Boot, especially when on sale are a fantastic alternative!