CLARKS ORIGINAL DESERT BOOT | 3-YEAR REVIEW

Just like the movie Highlander, when it comes to desert boots 'There can be only one!' and that 'one' is the world famous and utterly iconic Clark's Original Desert Boot - launched in 1950 and worn by the rich and famous ever since.
In this video we delve into the rich history of the enigmatic chukka boot and discover where it sits in the sartorial wardrobe of the modern, stylish chap and review the boot after 3-years of continual use.
If you would like to support future content, a donation would be deeply appreciated via the 'buy me a coffee' website - www.buymeacoffee.com/thechaps...
If you would like to support future content, a donation would be deeply appreciated via the 'buy me a coffee' website - www.buymeacoffee.com/thechaps....
Link to my 12-month review on these boots: • CLARKS ORIGINAL DESERT...
Link to my initial review of these boots when new: • CLARK'S ORIGINAL DESER...
Link to Clark's Original Desert Boots on Amazon: amzn.to/3hQBoXH
Equipment used in this filming of this video (Amazon links):
Camera - Canon Eos 250D: amzn.to/3bFaY7F
Lens - Cannon EFS 24mm f/2.8 STM: amzn.to/3aFT0kd
Tripod - K & F Incept Tripod: amzn.to/3eR5BEy
GorillaPod - Joby: amzn.to/35cJW5d
Shotgun microphone - Rode Video Mic Pro: amzn.to/3aKoSEw
Lavalier microphone: amzn.to/3cOEuYM
Studio lights - Neewer dimmable 2-pack LED studio lights: amzn.to/2Y6BsLB
#chapsguide #desertboot #mensstyle

[@danielschaeffer1294]

Back in the 60s and 70s these were de rigeur for hippies to wear with their jeans, and they’re the only bit of hippie wear that still works today. The “Suits of James Bond” website points out that Connery wore what looks like suede chukkas to go with his tweed jacket in “Goldfinger,” so they weren’t just for hippies.

[@JammyDodger45]

A boot that every sea going Royal Marines Commando has in his kitbag. The Naval types don't like us messing up their messdecks in our combat boots so we wear these. I must have gone through half a dozen pairs over the years, a real classic.

[@KRW628]

I wore running shoes with blue jeans and chinos for 40 years. A few years ago, I started to dress my age. I bought (on Ebay) a platoon of Clarks Desert boots (and the slightly more stylish Wallabees). Game and set. I look better wearing these... and I feel better from looking better. I wear them with everything right up to khakis, a casual jacket; even a casual shirt and tie.

[@Charlie_Duz]

Know the feeling, I'm at that stage too. 👍

[@jimmydigital]

I hit 30 and realised my wardrobe was all jeans , graphic tees and hoodies. lol. Sneakers

[@05Rudey]

Awesome 💪

[@razor6552]

​@@jimmydigital Tennis shoes were out by the time I was 30, except for Chuck Taylors. I rarely wear them anymore. Usually something more like a black desert boot that can be worn casual or business casual. Tennis shoes are allowed in the office, but I'd be mortified to wear the old Adidas or whatever I was wearing in my twenties. I never liked the hoodie look. I appreciate the practicality. I would wear a sweatshirt or sweater with a toque or flat cap instead. However, I've worn T shirts for decades. Some graphic. I started supplanting the T shirts with henleys. A much classier look and far better than polos with the floppy collars IMHO. I've hung onto a lot of my graphic t shirts, because of the place they commemorate, or the band, etc. But I wear them less than I did.

[@jimmydigital]

@@razor6552 Henley’s are like polo shirts. They look great on a guy with an athletic muscular build, gym goer, but a bit naff if you’re skinny, or overweight … it’s better to go with the classic button down dress shirt, long sleeve

[@Rick-fz7tt]

Don’t ever step in gasoline at a gas station or any other chemical. The soles dissolve.

[@LiamBehan-mi8kr]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@hawghawg381]

Good heads up.

[@MisterKnightly]

I'd say these were probably the first nicer shoes I ever bought. A shame that the wide sizes are so rare these days, else I'd probably still wear them.

[@antonius_006]

These boots were very apreciated in my Brazilian high school, back in the 70s, by those who knew what style is.

[@kev12364]

I pay £70 for my Clarks desert boots from Amazon, I changed the laces to red. The Mods favourite shoe.

[@jabezhane]

I bought a pair of these (in a slightly smarter style with thinner leather/rubber soles) on a whim from M&S and they were their 'Luxury' range. I have to say they have held up perfectly for many years now. A classic style that wears well in most occasions and situations.

[@SomeNot]

As a younger guy, I do rather like desert boots. They allow me to tastefully step up my outfits without it being too formal. They pair so well with jeans or chinos. Contrary to what you said, jeans are definitely not the most casual trousers people wear, in fact I think many people may view them as the opposite

[@SMarcey]

I love my Clarks, I acquired a pair of the oiled leather version of the desert boot for ten dollars on ebay. A find I was very fortunate to stumble across.

[@ronaldpoppe3774]

Ash. I have a pair that I have had for two years as per your recommendation. Still going strong. As a military historian I love the history of these fine Boots. Thanks for the update. Cheers Ron

[@randyeast2542]

Well done Ashley. Never having a pair of Clarks, I purchased over a year ago. the competition was converse but lacing up was a challenge plus I'm a little too old for them. I bought my pair for cheap on ebay. I am absolutely hooked. I have purchased another pair and will have them resoled which you have not covered. I will give you feedback as to cost since New is very costly and curious as to the break even point. Anyway, here in Dallas Texas, where it's ungodly Hot, these go well with shorts, stylish socks and a matching polo shirt. I feel at ease. I also wear with jeans and chinos and the look gets me many complements. Great video Ashley. Top Marks. Carry on !

[@KT.81]

Great detail review Sir. I like that "Function over form" 👍👍

[@TheDukeBoX101]

I've 3 pairs of Desert Boots and I want more, I'm slightly obsessed! Excellent boot! I'll also add that I think Clarks are pretty great shoes, for the price, especially in the sales, you can get a decent pair of shoes that are comfortable, nice looking and doesn't break the bank. I guess my mam was right when she was forcing me into them for school :P

[@kaykunz4730]

Hi Ash, Your Clark desert boot videos have convinced me that I should give it a try. I was able to pick up a pair for 40% off at the Clarks outlet store. Let's see how they break in and hold up. Thanks for the great videos and content that comes from you Ash.

[@zockerplay3314]

Thanks Ash! I'm in the first season of owning a pair of Desert Boots. Wasn't sure if they mix well with shorts until I remembered those old images of the soldiers wearing them with shorts. As you say in the video, works fantastic!

[@pasquale78]

You inspired me to get them, Ash. I bought a pair of Desert Coals (flat sole and three lace holes) in the same color as yours and I love them to bits. So much so, that I bought a pair of Clarks Weaver Maple Suede, which look better in shorts if I'm honest.

[@e-remes7029]

Good evening Ash/ Chaps/ Chapettes Ah, the desert boot. I rediscovered this underated item of footwear thanks to this very channel. I did not though, go with the Clarke's, rather I went for a pair of "Ghillie" type. I chose my style of boot as that was what I wore in the desert back in 1990. (they could do with a stiff brush now) I concur on their versatility, I have worn them with Cargo shorts, Chino shorts, chinos and (indeed) Pantalon de Nimes. Versatility is definately key, I may invest in a pair of Clarke's in the future. As always I cannot gainsay the points made here. Looking forward to your next video *Salute

[@thegreyman6486]

My current pair have done spring/summer for 16 years, using a brass wire brush and gum rubber along with Saphir super invulver keep them in good shape, the soles can be scrubbed but go to to look grubby quickly. Found a pair in Cola dark brown with crepe soles that are almost black they look really good but are hard to find in the UK, unlike the other colours Clark's produce. Still a firm favourite, many thanks for your quality videos atb out.

[@jrooney58]

I have two pairs of Clark’s Desert Boots, one suede and one brown leather. I like the suede better as it is softer around the ankle - the brown leather version is a little uncomfortable around the ankle. Both pairs are durable and easy to wear in casual settings. While I haven’t experienced issues with the soles in the winter months, the unlined nature makes them a bit chilly to wear on really cold days.

[@docloftis]

Always wondered about this boot…but this year I opted for Herring shoes and bought the Ginger suede Grays with rubber sole and welted as well.

[@DMorgan77]

They have held up well, Ash. I like the laces choice as well, gives them a little pop of color.

[@vincentmartin5046]

Good morning sirs, I have a pair of wax leather Clarks desert shoe which has the same sole. I wear over the same months ie May -Oct and is one and well worn shoe. Great vid as always,

[@daveporter6091]

I have a pair of Clarks in a grey/brown with black soles. Outstanding!

[@BruddaJakka]

Craig wore a pair of Chukka's in every Bond movie he starred in. Though Desert Boots are specifically Suede, Crepe Soul, ankle height.

[@Mugwumps107]

A very comfortable boot, love em👍🏻

[@donjacobson818]

Hello, Ash: I discovered your channel early this year and I look forward enthusiastically to each new episode. And I've gone back and watched your older ones as well. I never thought I would disagree with you about anything, but regarding these desert boots I will. I've had two pairs over the years and I found them to be extremely uncomfortable. The reason is the insole: it is completely flat, with no arch support whatsoever. At the end of a day wearing them my feet just ached terribly. Purchasing insoles from the drugstore was not much help because they moved around too much inside the boot. I would love to wear these, but they are not for me.

[@WICKEDMAN85]

Ive ordered the First pair of Clarks on sale £60 from the original (£120) and even got a pair of Clark's Seduede Chelsea boots (£65) for my father's Christmas present! I look forward to breaking them in and becoming a little bit more stylish now in my adventures in the UK. Cheers Ash for the constant updates. Many Thanks from London!

[@TheChapsGuide]

Nice one!

[@sermaaxford]

I've been trying for so long to find a new pair of every day shoes having had worn a solid pair of Nike for the last few years and i think these may be it, i really love the simple design.

[@teenoso4069]

in 2019, picked up a Clark's pair of Chelsea Boots in sand suede with crepe sole. On sale at £38 from £120. One of my cheapest pair but well worn and comfortable.

[@jessebechtold2973]

Would definitely recommend the Thursday Scout Chukka if you’re in the States. A little pricier but with a rubber outsole that holds up better. Going on two years and they’re great. Been meaning to get a couple more in actually but I’ve been busy building up a nice newsboy cap fleet.

[@razor6552]

Corduroy sports jacket, flat cap, crew neck sweater, dark blue or white button down collar shirt underneath, jeans or chinos, desert boots. You're smart without going over the top. A near perfect balance between casual and being "dressed up" IMHO. You can go almost anywhere.

[@jessebechtold2973]

@@razor6552 You describe an ideal wardrobe, love it! Just throw in some linen button downs for the hot months.

[@razor6552]

@@jessebechtold2973 I have a collarless linen/cotton shirt that's good for summer. My supervisor has a guayabera shirt that he got in Cuba that he's worn to the office a couple times.

[@ossilong]

i have the same pair and love the look of them but found the crepe sole to be quite slippery on wet grass and leaves.

[@05Rudey]

I have had other brand dessert boots, a very cheap pair from a high-street shoe shop and couple of very good desert boots from Timberland and Kangol (Not sure they still make shoes but they were excellent) but my next pair will be a pair of Clarke's, I like the fact that the crape sole can last decades and lets be honest. They are possibly the most stylish desert boots on the market.

[@victoriansword]

I live in the upper Midwest in the United States and I have desert boots in the beeswax finish. I wear them in the fall, winter, and spring. I agree that they’re not good on ice, but I find that otherwise they do well, especially when paired with warm wool socks.

[@edwardbirdsall6580]

Nice video. I would suggest Saphir Medaille d’Or Super Invulner - Waterproof Spray before wearing. Simple but effective.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Great suggestion!

[@wescobts]

Great video, as always. In the discussion of style, can you wear these boots with a pair of shorts ?

[@janerkenbrack3373]

What's funny is that I tried to buy some Clark's original desert boots about five years ago, but they had (for some reason I could never solve) dropped the original desert sand color, and I didn't care for the choices available. I was also a little suspicious of the crepe on them, with the difference between what was used when made in England, and what they use made in Vietnam. At the time Allen Edmonds was selling an Italian built desert boot called Montauk. This has since been discontinued. The color of the suede is what I wanted, and the crepe is far superior to Clark's. But they are a little stiffer, especially across the vamp. If they ever wear out I will take a shot at Clark's again, because I do like them. As to style, I am a firm believer that you can wear these with a suit, provided that suit is casual enough for them. Picture an unstructured and unlined one or two button suit with flat front trousers in a neutral color. The casual suit equivalent of a khaki uniform. I saw just such a look in an episode of The Avengers, in one of the later years with Emma Peel. The story had a character who had just retired from the army, and went to some town where he got himself killed. But he was clearly wearing his desert boots with a suit. As to wearing them in the winter goes, you can - if. If you spend the winter in the North African desert they are just fine.😁

[@vrdrew63]

I love my suede Clark's boots. My experience pretty much exactly follows yours. They are a great choice for a casual summer shoe. But with some caveats. Is it worth re-soling shoes like these? IMHO, probably not. It's technically possible to do so, but it's probably not economically worthwhile. Suede almost inevitably gets stains and scuffs that can't really be treated. Wear them for five-seven years, and when the soles wear out, buy a new pair. Can they be worn with shorts? Yes. But not my choice. Socks and shorts, away from the athletic field, is generally not a great look. A moccasin or "boat shoe", worn without socks is a better choice. Also good is an espadrille. IMHO, the last man who looked good in sandals was a Centurion in one of Caesar's legions. Great content, as always, Ash. Please keep it coming. And also kudos to the commenters, who give a valuable and informed feedback.

[@TheChapsGuide]

A great bunch of great chaps

[@arthurcatalanotto1151]

Nice review. If possible, will you please review some other footwear of yours that have some years on them? Those maybe that have been resoled?

[@jonathonshanecrawford1840]

Hi Ash, I hope your having a wonderful day! I've watched your video on cleaning leather shoes to a mirror shine _(Saphir Mirror Gloss),_ I have a pair of brogued Oxford wing-tip shoes, an I applied Pate de Lux 1 coat, and wow! The instant shine, with no pre-treament! Does Saphir have a cleaning product for suede shoes?

[@TheChapsGuide]

I believe that they do, however, I have not used it so cannot endorse the product. Worth checking out KZbin for other recommendations.

[@jonathonshanecrawford1840]

@@TheChapsGuide May be one day, a demonstration, on how to clean sued shoes?

[@canadafree2087]

"Back of the closet" I forgot I have a pair of desert boots from Kenya up on a shelf. We are going through a heat wave so it is time I dig them out and put some wear into them. I'll keep an eye out for a Clark's pair.

[@daveporter6091]

Very helpful video,Ash. Wristwatch check please. What were you wearing??

[@TheChapsGuide]

Nirvade Grenchen Depthmaster

[@UnknownUser-rb9pd]

You may be interested that the The Shoe Healer have a short YT video showing a resole on a pair of Clark's desert boot which they transform into a Dainite soled boot with a leather stacked heel. I suspect this job would cost more than the RRP of a pair of these boots but it's interesting to see what can be done if you're really fond of them.

[@kevinbutler1968]

If you like Desert boots, you should try Kebo Desert boots, only sold on line at Arthur Kinght. They cost around £90 and are actually made in Italy. I have had loads of pairs and they fit perfect from the first wear. Lots of different colours too.

[@TheChapsGuide]

Thanks for the tip. I rather like rust option.

[@montecristobal]

Hi Ash! What was the original color of your boots? They seem to be more reddish than the original sandy color, which is actually quite pale. Did they acquire that tone with use?

[@TheChapsGuide]

They are sand coloured, but seem to have darkened over time.

[@JanHuraj]

Thank you for your videos, I like them very much! However, I have to disagree with your evaluation of Clark's Desert boots. I have Desert boots and Desert London shoes (shoe version with 4 eyelets). Two eyelets on Desert boots are extremely uncomfortable, they press on the instep (these Desert boots should have 3 eyelets, especially because of the soft unlined suede leather). I assume you don't wear them that often, because the crepe sole in the middle of the toebox, where the most friction occurs when walking, wears off very quickly. My Desert London shoes that I wore 3-5 times a week were destroyed within a single season! At the same time, this crepe sole is very slippery in the rain / on a wet surfaces. In addition, Clark`s Desert boots are uncomfortable for longer / all-day wear, due to no arch support and soft outsole. After wearing it all day, my feet are on fire. Overall, the Desert boots have a nice style, and for me also they were the transition to quality footwear, but now when I look at them from a distance I rate them as a bit of a disappointment.

[@UnknownUser-rb9pd]

These seem expensive at full price since they are such simple construction and so few components and are made in a low cost country, though I suppose the same applies to most trainers.. The soles are just glued as it is not possible to stitch through crepe rubber and a cobbler should be able to grind off the sole and glue on a new one if you think it is worth it. This would probably be a bit cheaper than a GYW re-sole. The small Italian family company Astorflex produces a similar but better quality boot called Greenflex in Italy and makes the whole boot in a very sustainable way (Italian vegetable tanned leathers, water based adhesives etc) and they cost about £180 full price but a bit cheaper if you shop around, particularly "off season". They also make a few other variations like moc toes. Loake now make some suede plain toe derbies and a chukka boot with crepe soles and sustainable upper leather tanned in olive oil leaves (a by product of that industry) and they happen to be in the sale at 40% off at the moment. I have a pair and they are as you say very comfortable. These are made in England.

[@MrWansty]

they are a classic item for any guy btw any chance of an update on the JADD's ? if you still have them

[@TheChapsGuide]

The Jadd's are going very well, a bit smarter and more sartorially versatile than the Clarks, not to mention better made. Great boots!

[@dgraddy1359]

How do they fit size wise? They look like they would be a little loose. What type of socks?

[@TheChapsGuide]

True to size in my instance.

[@davidwilliams2608]

You talk about your wardrobe Ash. I would imagine that you have quite a collection of clothing and footwear. How do you manage the storage area within your wardrobe?

[@TheChapsGuide]

That is a topic I will have to cover very soon.

[@yartp]

Still have my first pair of Desert boots from 1990. If I'm on my feet a lot, I can't say that the original Desert is all that comfortable. I need something with arch support. In that case I'll put on a Bushacre or a Desert Coal.

[@adrianwalker2833]

If they were produced in 1990 you stand the chance that they were still "Made in England".

[@NeonMako]

Seconded, the Bushacre variant, especially the Bushacre 3 is a wonderful step up in terms of support/all day wear IMO. They have an utterly brilliant insole to make up for the regular rubber sole replacing the crepe of the DB.

[@9er..]

Desert boots and amazing dance moves (along with my undeniable charm😏) made my wife fall in love with me the night we met.

[@keithwilliams7611]

As a older person suffering from gout, most comfortable boot I have

[@keithwilliams7611]

Have a black and a sand colour

[@Molach101]

I bought a pair a year ago for about £40 at an outlet. I personally don't think Clarks Desert Boots are worth £120 but there's so many Clarks outlets across the UK (mine were purchased in Northern Ireland) there's no need to buy them at that price & for the price of a pair of canvas trainers I don't think you will find better than these. If you can get them for around the £50 mark they're arguably better value for what they are than higher end ones like Jadd or Astorflex

[@alphastone8362]

I suppose at that price point you would just toss them when the soles wear out. However, technically can they be resoled?

[@TheChapsGuide]

It is possible, just not financially viable

[@kylec7924]

What watch you got the ash?

[@TheChapsGuide]

Nirvada Grenchen Depthmaster

[@P-zo6rh]

You have the greetings of a reggae singer

[@TheChapsGuide]

Greetings to you sir

[@adrianwalker2833]

Yes, they are cheap. But someone has to pay the price for them and that is - not surprisingly - the Vietnamese workforce who are fobbed off for a pittance. At the same time the British workforce is made redundant. The fact that they are now made in Vietnam has nothing to do with quality but because the management wants to maximise profits. Give me JADD desert boots anytime which are "Made in England" - thus providing jobs in England.

[@Art-is-craft]

The workers in Asian countries are very well rewarded with those manufacturing jobs. They year 10 times more with work that far easier than the alternative. Out souring has been a terrible thing for countries and must be separated in the discussion.

[@ZoomZoom-ng6sn]

3 years for these boots makes would make them suitable for the immortals. LOL.

[@graememorrison333]

Shoenerd alert but pretty sure that dezzies arent welted. Theyre stitchdown construction. (Where the upper is turned outwards and cemented and stitched direct to the midsole.) No welt is used)

[@davidmarsden9800]

Jadd shoes do similar boots made in England for £179 look to be better quality than the Clark's.

[@TheChapsGuide]

They are better quality. I've had a pair of Jadd desert boots for a year and they are excellent.

[@jonathonshanecrawford1840]

Not being negative, like the inside walls, most people paint their walls with _matte paint_ to hide the imperfections! Like us chap's we have imperfections and we can't really hide them! I noticed in the back ground (the lawn) there's imperfections. So what? We are not perfect, we strive to be the best we can, we can't do it on our own, we all need good sound advice from KZbin channels like *The Chap's Guide,* As you don't get paid and never will be from companies that want positive endorsements on their products if their products are rubbish, or not up to a very good standard! Oh! No one is better than anyone else, as there is someone better, also no one is the worst, as there is someone worst then us!

[@karlmodry716]

Well they are casual and all of that but when I see them it just screams MODS and those wore desert boots with a suit :) not my personal style though, I would wear loafers or simple white sneakers instead. I used to have a pair and they were too clunky and big in my size.

[@martindoyle7077]

Don't think £120 for a pair is good value another £60 70 pound would get Goodyear welted loake much much better

[@richard74200]

You will end up looking like Prince Harry if you wear these with chinos. Much better options available.

[@Bjartone]

How can you have your desert boot if you don't eat your chicken dinner?

[@langhebarolo]

Clarks are really not good for the cost, no structure and wear out fast I am wearing Astorflex these days.

[@davidporter2770]

Sorry Ash, these are called Veldskoen in South Africa and were first made by the Dutch when they colonised South Africa in April 1652. And after 400 years, The Veldskoen is still proudly made in South Africa. And the Veldskoen is as South African as Biltong and Boerewors- " Farmer Sausage". Veldskoen in English is "Bush Shoe". Every South African has a pair of " Vellies". Clarks pinched the Veldskoen from us.🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦

[@adrianwalker2833]

I just bought myself - for old times sake - a pair of Vellies from "Swakop Vellies" (Herbert Schier), a traditional shoe manufacturer in Swakopmund that's around since 1938.