Most footwear traits come and go, however one model that’s garnered a group of lifelong lovers? The ever-practical, trendy but quirky clog. This stalwart group — of which I’m a proud member — can rattle off a plethora of causes for our devotion to the clog. The consolation! The benefit! The assist and understated practical stylish (which many people lovingly consult with as “ugly chic”)!
However in fact, the very best individual to ask about whether or not clogs are actually value their salt is an expert — particularly, a podiatrist.
Huffpost spoke to podiatrist Dr. Saylee Tulpule about her skilled tackle clog fandom. Tulpule is predicated in Washington, D.C. and Maryland and is energetic on Instagram as @thesoledoctor.
Tulpule defined that folk who spend a number of time on their toes usually get pleasure from clogs due to their built-in arch assist, their regularly added comfortable cushioning and the easy-on, easy-off slip-on model. That’s why “clogs are traditionally worn by professionals who stand all day: nurses, teachers, doctors, chefs, etc.,” she wrote. Clogs are additionally usually slip-resistant and waterproof, an additional advantage for energetic professionals, Tulpule added.
The beloved footwear may also be useful for these with sure medical circumstances. Particularly, “Clogs can be comfortable for people that suffer from flat feet, heel pain, tendonitis or even lower back issues due to the degree of arch support and cushion,” Tulpule mentioned.
That mentioned, it’s possible you’ll need to keep away from vogue clogs with excessive heels over three inches, which may result in tripping and probably pressure your Achilles tendon, Tulpule famous. As well as, clogs with overly agency wood soles won’t present the identical cushiony assist and thus can “aggravate flat feet,” she added.
So long as you persist with a sensible model with out excessive heels and wood soles, clogs are among the best comfortable, supportive all-day footwear you’ll discover. One of the best ones to stay to, in response to Tulpule? These from Dansko, Birkenstock and Sanita manufacturers. She famous that the Dansko model additionally carries the American Podiatrist Medical Affiliation’s Seal of Approval.
Based mostly on Tulpule’s suggestions, we rounded up a number of the bestselling Dansko, Birkenstock and Sanita clogs so that you can try, beneath. And, in the event you do fall in love with the clog as I as soon as did, congratulations — you’re now a part of among the best footwear fandoms round.
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The bestselling, ultra-comfy leather-based Dansko clog
“For my patients that are professionals, I recommend[] a closed back clog for additional support and minimal risk to ‘coming out of the shoe,'” Tulpule added.
Based mostly on Tulpule’s advice, we chosen this bestselling slip-on, closed-back Dansko clog. I personal and have walked miles upon miles on this clog. As soon as sufficiently damaged in, this factor proved unparalleled to every other shoe I’ve owned attributable to its long-lasting consolation and built-in arch assist (which I particularly admire for my large, flat toes). It is obtainable in dozens of designs and colours at Amazon, however I like its oiled black and brown kinds; they supply a put-together vibe that is served me effectively in all places from formal work environments to working errands and drinks out. I even wore these clogs out clubbing as soon as, and whereas admittedly I used to be the one one there in clogs, I will wager I used to be the happiest and definitely probably the most pain-free. For sure, these Danskos have been a real love affair for me.
The model additionally sports activities a two-inch heel, which provides my 5’2″ frame a fun height boost.
It’s available in women’s sizes 5-15 and in wide and narrow sizes. Even though I have wide feet, I opted for the regular sizing and was just fine. For the best fit, aim for a pinky-length gap between the back of your foot and the shoe’s heel.
Amazon
A popular open back Dansko style
We think this Dansko clog is a great option for folks wanting an open-back design. In addition to minimizing heel friction, this has a padded instep for maximum comfort, a reinforced toe to protect your feet and a wide heel for added stability as you move around. It also sports a rocker-bottom sole that’s designed to propel you forward as you walk. To no one’s surprise, I also wore this backless Dansko for many years. Beyond its practical features — of which there are delightfully many — I loved the laidback vibe its backless style provided, plus the opportunity to show off my collection of fun socks (which are usually obscured by closed heels).
It’s available with leather and fabric uppers, in six colors and in women’s sizes 4.5-12. It has a two-inch heel.
Amazon
A timeless sling-back Dansko clog
It’s available in three colors and women’s sizes 5.5-12.
Birkenstock
The cult-favorite Boston clog from Birkenstock
It has a soft suede leather upper and a luxurious suede leather lining. It’s available in five colors, regular/wide and medium/narrow widths, women’s sizes 4-12.5 and men’s sizes 6-17.5.
Birkenstock
Or the impressively durable Super-Birki from Birkenstock
It’s available in 10 colors, including neutrals and vibrant brights like yellow, green and pink, in women’s sizes 4-12.5 and in men’s sizes 6-15.5.
Amazon
A stylish Sanita clog
The fixed strap adds some understated personality and style to this foot-loving style.
It’s available in four colors and in women’s sizes 4.5-11.
Amazon
Or some extra-colorful Sanita clogs
They’re available in nine colors, including bright red, fuschia and lilac, and in women’s sizes 3.5-12.
