Writing about the clogs while I’m in the Netherlands feels right. After all, clogs are iconically Dutch, and I had several classic slip-on pairs with wooden heels as a child in the ‘70s. Two of the pairs were red, one was brown, and one was white. I also had a traditional yellow wooden pair that I wore for a while as a seven year old. Traditional wooden clogs are used as decoration all over the Netherlands today. This photo I took a few days ago in the garden of the assisted living facility where my Dad lives in Velp, NL, illustrates what I mean.
Over the years, clogs have taken a much more comfortable, flexible and modern form when compared to their wooden ancestors. There are lots of variations, and many are some kind of slip-on. Most clogs have covered toes and open backs. But some versions have a closed back, like the oh-so-popular Dansko Professional. Some have open toes. Clog sandals with ankle straps are another way to go. Heels are usually wooden, but can be rubber or another type of flexible material. Heels can be high or low.
The vibe is casual, and here are all sorts examples.
Clogs can have great arch support and cushioning insoles. They can be very comfortable, and good for your feet if they fit well, and if you can wear slip-ons with ease and stability. Clogs are handy to slip on and off, and you can wear them with socks if you like.
Some find the slip-ons unstable, hard to fit, and prefer clog sandals. They can be the more stable option because they have straps and stay on your feet. Wooden heels can be heavier or lightweight depending on the specific wood used. Clogs with rubber soles are usually lightweight.
Clogs are a classic that are having their fashion moment. The idea is to wear them with any type of casual outfit, including shorts, dresses and skirts. They can look chunky, but that’s part of the appeal. You might prefer them with pants and jeans as opposed to bear legs for that reason. The sandals look great with skirts and dresses. To offset their chunky appearance on bare legs, you can choose a version which is low contrast to your skin tone. Or simply wear a colour that tickles your fancy.
Some of my clients made clogs their thing as a nod to their Dutch and Scandinavian heritage. They wear them in Winter with socks too. Others swear by any style of Dansko. Some are into wearing clog sandals, but not the slip-on variety. Others enjoy the slip-on versions, and not the sandals. Some would like to wear them but find them uncomfortable and unstable, and others don’t like the look at all.
As I mentioned at the beginning of the post, I wore classic slip-on clogs with wooden heels as a child in the ‘70s and loved them. I wore them with and without socks, year round, and thought they were very comfy. I’ve tried to find a crisp and simple pair as an adult in either white or red, but can’t find a pair that is sufficiently narrow for my low volume feet. If you know of a pair, please let me know. I would happily wear a pair like this if they fit. I like their ‘70s vibe and trendy classic look. These would be casual Summer shoes for me, and I’d wear them without socks.
Over to you. What do you think of clogs? Do you like them and wear them?
