About a year and a half ago, I finally decided to pick up my first pair of Clarks Desert Boots. For years I’d been curious about them, they’re often spoken of as a design classic, a shoe that has stood the test of time since its launch in the 1950s. I wanted something versatile: practical for work on a casual Friday, but also stylish enough for weekend dinners, family gatherings, or just strolling through the city.
On paper, the boot ticked all the boxes. They’re built with a premium suede upper, a leather lining, a two-eyelet lace fastening, a leather footbed, and of course, Clarks’ iconic crepe sole. Minimal design. Unfussy. The kind of footwear you can throw on without overthinking it.
Having now worn them exactly 63 times, I feel it’s only fair to share my honest experience. This isn’t a showroom review or a first-impression unboxing, it’s a breakdown of how they’ve held up, how they feel, and whether they live up to the hype.
So, if you’re wondering whether Clarks Desert Boots are worth the money, the comfort, and the long-term investment, here’s everything you need to know, straight from someone who has lived in them.
Clarks markets these as being made from premium suede. At first, I wasn’t blown away, it didn’t scream “luxury” in the way high-end designer boots might. But after 63 wears, I have to give credit where it’s due: the suede has aged beautifully.
They’ve developed a subtle patina and natural creasing around the toe box and lacing area. Instead of looking tired or shabby, these changes give them character. It’s almost like the boots have matured with me. I’ve only brushed them maybe three times and never sprayed them with any protector. I personally like them a little rugged, dust and grime actually add to their personality.
That said, everyone’s experience will differ. I mostly wore mine for style: casual office days, dinner dates, weekend outings, an outdoor wedding, and a few light drizzles. I didn’t subject them to heavy manual work, trekking, or torrential downpours. If you use yours as workhorses, expect them to show their age differently.
On paper, the boot ticked all the boxes. They’re built with a premium suede upper, a leather lining, a two-eyelet lace fastening, a leather footbed, and of course, Clarks’ iconic crepe sole. Minimal design. Unfussy. The kind of footwear you can throw on without overthinking it.
Having now worn them exactly 63 times, I feel it’s only fair to share my honest experience. This isn’t a showroom review or a first-impression unboxing, it’s a breakdown of how they’ve held up, how they feel, and whether they live up to the hype.
So, if you’re wondering whether Clarks Desert Boots are worth the money, the comfort, and the long-term investment, here’s everything you need to know, straight from someone who has lived in them.
First impressions vs. one year later
They’ve developed a subtle patina and natural creasing around the toe box and lacing area. Instead of looking tired or shabby, these changes give them character. It’s almost like the boots have matured with me. I’ve only brushed them maybe three times and never sprayed them with any protector. I personally like them a little rugged, dust and grime actually add to their personality.
That said, everyone’s experience will differ. I mostly wore mine for style: casual office days, dinner dates, weekend outings, an outdoor wedding, and a few light drizzles. I didn’t subject them to heavy manual work, trekking, or torrential downpours. If you use yours as workhorses, expect them to show their age differently.
Construction & durability
Here’s where Clarks gets it right. The crepe sole, that yellowish rubber material, is surprisingly durable. It does pick up dirt quickly, but that’s part of its charm. Over time, mine have darkened and carry a lived-in look that I actually love.
The heel collar has softened slightly, particularly at the back, which might just be down to the way I walk. But structurally, the boots are intact. No loose stitches. No detached sole. The iconic two-eyelet lacing system still feels solid and functional. For a shoe this minimal, it’s impressive how tough they are.
The heel collar has softened slightly, particularly at the back, which might just be down to the way I walk. But structurally, the boots are intact. No loose stitches. No detached sole. The iconic two-eyelet lacing system still feels solid and functional. For a shoe this minimal, it’s impressive how tough they are.
Comfort: The honest truth
Let’s talk about comfort, because this is where opinions on Clarks Desert Boots are the most divided.
The first few wears weren’t uncomfortable per se, but they also weren’t cushioned like sneakers. I expected them to soften up with time. Strangely, even after 63 wears, they feel about the same as day one. The crepe sole does absorb some shock, but without a proper midsole, you definitely feel the ground beneath you.
To really test them, I wore them for a long walk from Green Park to Oxford Circus here in London. Let’s just say it wasn’t pretty, I ended up with blisters under my feet. These aren’t all-day marathon shoes. They’re best suited for short-to-medium wear days, where style is the priority and comfort is secondary.
That being said, the suede upper is soft, breathable, and generally kind to your feet. The lacing area can sometimes dig in a little and they’re not the quickest boots to put on. But once you’re in them, they hold your feet nicely. I’d rate the comfort at around 50%: enough for casual wear, not enough for heavy walking.
The first few wears weren’t uncomfortable per se, but they also weren’t cushioned like sneakers. I expected them to soften up with time. Strangely, even after 63 wears, they feel about the same as day one. The crepe sole does absorb some shock, but without a proper midsole, you definitely feel the ground beneath you.
To really test them, I wore them for a long walk from Green Park to Oxford Circus here in London. Let’s just say it wasn’t pretty, I ended up with blisters under my feet. These aren’t all-day marathon shoes. They’re best suited for short-to-medium wear days, where style is the priority and comfort is secondary.
That being said, the suede upper is soft, breathable, and generally kind to your feet. The lacing area can sometimes dig in a little and they’re not the quickest boots to put on. But once you’re in them, they hold your feet nicely. I’d rate the comfort at around 50%: enough for casual wear, not enough for heavy walking.
Sizing: A Word of Caution
If you’ve browsed the Clarks website, you’ve probably noticed a flood of negative reviews about sizing. People say they had to order multiple pairs before finding their fit. Some complain they run too big, others too small. It’s confusing, and frankly, a bit of a gamble.
I lucked out. I’m a UK size 8, and my pair fit perfectly straight out of the box. No major adjustments needed. But I wouldn’t ignore the complaints, if you can, visit a physical store and try them on. If not, prepare yourself for possible exchanges.
Clarks, if you ever stumble across this review: sizing consistency is one area that really needs improvement.
I lucked out. I’m a UK size 8, and my pair fit perfectly straight out of the box. No major adjustments needed. But I wouldn’t ignore the complaints, if you can, visit a physical store and try them on. If not, prepare yourself for possible exchanges.
Clarks, if you ever stumble across this review: sizing consistency is one area that really needs improvement.
Styling: where they truly shine
Now, here’s the fun part. The real reason Clarks Desert Boots are beloved is their styling versatility. These boots are true chameleons.
I’ve worn them with:
I’ve worn them with:
- Jeans (both slim and straight fits)
- Chinos for a smart-casual office vibe
- Polos and button-down shirts
- Casual jackets and blazers
- Even shorts (though I admit this one’s debatable)
The beauty is in their simplicity. They don’t shout for attention, yet they always look intentional. If your wardrobe leans smart-casual, they’re a natural fit. They strike that balance between rugged and refined, something few shoes manage this well.
I even had to get a brown pair for more styling options. 🙂
So, after one year and 63 wears, where do I stand?
In my opinion, yes, they’re worth it, but only if you know what you’re getting. Don’t expect modern sneaker-like comfort. Don’t expect them to handle harsh weather. Instead, see them for what they are: A design classic. A boot that sits perfectly between casual and smart. A timeless shoe that quietly improves with age. For me, they’ve become a personal staple, the kind of shoe I don’t think twice about. I know I can throw them on with jeans or chinos, and they’ll work. They’ve earned their place in my wardrobe.
Absolutely, 100%! But now I’m curious, what about you? Have you owned a pair of Clarks Desert Boots? How did yours hold up? Share your experience in the comments below, I’d love to hear it.
Thanks for stopping by.
– Philip 🙂
I even had to get a brown pair for more styling options. 🙂
Pros & cons after 63 wears what I like:
- Minimalist design that never goes out of style.
- True to size (at least for me).
- Durability: still solid after more than a year.
- Versatility: can pair with a wide range of outfits.
- Soft suede upper that adds comfort and breathability.
What I don’t like:
- Not waterproof: drizzle is fine, but heavy rain is a nightmare.
- Crepe sole attracts dirt: charming at first, annoying when it gets too much.
- Suede stains easily, especially lighter colours.
- Not easy to put on, even when loosening the laces.
- Limited comfort: fine for casual outings, not for long walks.
Final Verdict: Are they worth it?
So, after one year and 63 wears, where do I stand?
In my opinion, yes, they’re worth it, but only if you know what you’re getting. Don’t expect modern sneaker-like comfort. Don’t expect them to handle harsh weather. Instead, see them for what they are: A design classic. A boot that sits perfectly between casual and smart. A timeless shoe that quietly improves with age. For me, they’ve become a personal staple, the kind of shoe I don’t think twice about. I know I can throw them on with jeans or chinos, and they’ll work. They’ve earned their place in my wardrobe.
Would I buy them again?
Absolutely, 100%! But now I’m curious, what about you? Have you owned a pair of Clarks Desert Boots? How did yours hold up? Share your experience in the comments below, I’d love to hear it.
Thanks for stopping by.
– Philip 🙂
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