Birkenstock Boston Waxy Tobacco Brown Clogs
View product
The Best Clogs to Buy Right Now
There was a time when the word ‘clog’ conjured up images of Dutch wooden sabots or practical kitchen footwear. Today, it’s a completely different story. The clog has evolved into one of the most versatile, comfortable, and widely debated silhouettes in modern footwear.
Whether you’re sliding into a pair for a quick coffee run or investing in premium suede for the office, the clog category has expanded far beyond its functional roots. The question is no longer whether you should own a pair, but which pair actually deserves a spot by the front door.
What exactly is a clog today?
Historically, clogs were carved entirely from wood. They were designed for heavy agricultural work across Europe, offering protection and durability in wet conditions. The modern definition is much broader, but the core DNA remains the same: a slip-on shoe with a closed toe, an open or strapped heel, and a rigid or semi-rigid sole.
The confusion usually stems from the materials. Is it clogs or Crocs? The answer is both. Crocs popularised the EVA foam clog, turning a niche boating shoe into a global phenomenon. But a clog isn't defined by foam. It can be crafted from suede, leather, rubber, or cork. The defining feature is the shape and the slip-on functionality, not the material.
Are clogs actually good for your feet?
This is the question that comes up most often, and the answer depends entirely on the footbed. Not all clogs are created equal when it comes to support.
A high-quality clog is designed to support the natural arch of the foot while providing enough room in the toe box for the toes to spread naturally. This is why you’ll often see them worn by chefs, nurses, and anyone who spends long hours standing. The lack of a restrictive heel counter reduces friction, while a structured footbed helps distribute weight evenly.
However, if you require rigid ankle support or have specific biomechanical needs, an open-backed shoe might not provide the stability you need for long-distance walking. For everyday wear, running errands, or standing tasks, a well-designed clog offers a level of immediate, unrestrictive comfort that few other silhouettes can match.
The Birkenstock Boston: The undisputed heavyweight
If there is one shoe that defines the modern clog resurgence, it is the Birkenstock Boston. It has transcended trends to become a genuine wardrobe staple, worn year-round with everything from thick wool socks in winter to shorts in summer.
The appeal of the Boston lies in its construction. It utilises Birkenstock’s signature contoured cork-latex footbed, which famously moulds to the shape of your foot over time. The Waxy Tobacco Brown leather iteration is consistently one of the most sought-after shoes we carry at TOWER. It ages beautifully, developing a rich patina that makes every pair unique to the wearer.
For those who prefer a softer texture out of the box, the suede versions—like the Faded Khaki Grey—offer immediate comfort without the break-in period required by heavier leathers. The Boston isn’t just a clog; it’s an investment in long-term foot health and enduring style.
Shop Birkenstock Clogs
Birkenstock Boston Waxy Tobacco Brown Clogs
View product
Birkenstock Boston Khaki Suede Faded Grey Clogs
View product
Birkenstock Boston Braided Taupe Suede Regular Clogs
View product
Crocs: The foam revolution
You cannot talk about clogs without talking about Crocs. They completely rewrote the rules of what a casual shoe could be. Originally designed as a slip-resistant boating shoe, the Classic Clog quickly found its way onto dry land.
The secret is Croslite, a proprietary closed-cell resin that is incredibly lightweight, water-resistant, and easy to clean. This makes Crocs the ultimate utility shoe. They are the default choice for gardening, quick trips to the shops, and relaxing after a long day. The pivoting heel strap provides just enough security when you need it, while the ventilation ports ensure breathability.
Beyond the Classic Clog, the brand has expanded into lined versions for winter and platform iterations for those looking to add a little height. If you want a shoe that requires absolutely zero maintenance while delivering maximum comfort, the EVA clog remains unbeatable.
Shop Crocs Clogs
Outdoor and utility clogs
While Birkenstock and Crocs dominate the lifestyle space, the clog format is also highly effective for outdoor utility. Hunter — the British brand best known for its Original Wellington Boot — makes a Gardener Clog that applies the same waterproof rubber construction to a slip-on silhouette. It is built for exactly the conditions where you want protection without the effort of pulling on full wellies: the allotment, the campsite, the muddy festival car park.
The Hunter Gardener Clog is moulded from natural rubber with a robust outsole tread and a contoured footbed. It cleans with a wipe. It handles standing water. And unlike foam clogs, it will not degrade in UV over time. The Muck Boots Muckster Lite operates in the same territory — a lightweight, fully waterproof slip-on designed for outdoor chores where you need grip and easy-off convenience.
Whether you lean towards the cork-latex heritage of Birkenstock, the lightweight foam of Crocs, or the rugged rubber of Hunter, the clog has proven it is far more than a passing trend. It is a masterclass in functional design that has rightfully earned its place in the modern rotation.
