THE JOURNAL
The word “clog” may conjure up images of the traditional wooden shoes from the Netherlands. However, contemporary iterations are some of most stylish and surprisingly comfortable things a man can put on his feet (and they don’t involve any painted-on windmills). They’re the kind of thing you can nonchalantly slip on. They say you’re an easy, breezy guy who feels good in his own skin and rolls out of bed looking incredible. Indeed, what are clogs if not house slippers that one can acceptably wear outside?
The reason that clogs (mules, backless shoes, whatever you want to call them) are trending is two-fold. That we are still wading through the sartorial hangover of lockdowns past that allowed us to appreciate the charm of casual dressing is one. The other is that some of the industry’s best designers – clever devils that they are – have been making some brilliant slip-on shoes. So, from Gucci’s rubber mules to Yuketen’s classic take on the style, behold our edit of the best clogs that MR PORTER’s roving team of sharp-eyed buyers could find.
01.
The posh rubber Gucci clogs
Rubber clogs are popular among chefs and nurses, thanks to how comfortable they are when you’re on your feet all day. For a more leisurely look that still retains good foot-feel, try Gucci. The slate-grey rubber from which the brand’s Elea clogs been crafted has the appearance of grained leather, which makes them the fanciest rubber shoes we’ve ever seen. Hey, they certainly beat flip-flops.
02.
The classic suede Yuketen slip-ons
The fashion designer Mr Yuki Matsuda is loved in the menswear industry, and not just because he posts great pictures of ramen on his Instagram account. He makes consistently excellent shoes for his brand Yuketen and is a master of moccasin-style footwear. These clogs are trimmed with jute and cut from durable suede. They’re as comfortable as clouds and will last years and years.
03.
The Bottega Veneta poolside clout shoes
The shade of sunlit palm fronds, these bright green rubber clogs from Bottega Veneta feel like summertime in shoe form. They’re comfortable and are just the thing to take on a relaxing beach holiday. Far be it from us to encourage any poolside peacocking, but we guarantee these will make you the most fashionable man at your hotel. From the ankles down, anyway.
04
The sleek and sophisticated Officine Creative slingbacks
Smart but not stuffy, these suede slingback clogs from Officine Creative are elegantly casual shoes that you can wear anywhere. Popping out for a pint of milk? Schlepping round an art gallery? Planning an outfit for that second date? Congratulations, you’ve found the shoe in which to do it all.
05.
The SAINT LAURENT throwback western clogs
Shoes like Jagger? These leather clogs from SAINT LAURENT hark back to the glam rock styles of the 1970s and have cowboy buckles to boot. There’s no need to pair them with impossibly tight jeans and a mullet, though. They’ll look just as good with relaxed denim or even a suit.