The 19 Most Comfortable Pairs of Clogs for Happy Feet, According to Podiatrists
The biggest fashion trend that never goes out of style is comfort. Whether you’re rocking a leopard print top or keeping it cozy with a hoodie, the most comfortable clogs will keep up with you all day long. After all, they’re a shoe that’s built for being on your feet.
Most comfortable clogs, at a glance
- Best overall: Dansko, Professional Clog, $130
- Best contoured footbed: Birkenstock, Boston Clog, $142
- Best open-toe: Dansko, Season Clog, $125
- Best perforated leather: Spring Step L’Artiste, Anana Mary-Jane Shoe, $70
- Best washable: Oofos, OOcloog, $80
- Best lightweight: Crocs, Classic Clog, $50
- Best suede: Merrell, Juno Clog, $100
- Best handmade: Swedish Hasbeens, Swedish Husband Clog, $270
- Best rubber: Hunter, Original Play Clog, $85
- Best adjustable: Chaco, Paonia Clog, $115
- Best minimalist: FitFlop, Shuv Leather Clog, $160
- Best Mary Jane: Sandgrens, Saragasso Clog, $204
- Best for long wear: Calzuro, Clog, $107
- Best slip-resistant: Crocs, Mercy Work Clog, $30
- Best lined: UGG, Lanni Clog, $150
- Best mesh: Merrell, Encore Breeze 4 Shoe, $100
- Best vegan: Troentorp, Da Vinci Vegan Clog, $127
- Best backstrap: Birkenstocks, Tokio Super Grip Clogs, $155
- Best splurge: Vionic, Kacie Clog, $250
Popular among nurses (and most people in the ’90s), clogs are comfortable enough—and durable enough—to be worn just about anywhere, by anyone. Cushy soles and spacious toe-boxes make clogs practical and a wide variety of stylish make them fashionable. In addition to protecting your precious toes from the elements, the elevated heel of clogged shoes is good for foot and leg health, according to podiatrists.
- Miguel Cunha, DPM, podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare
- Nelya Lobkova, DPM, board-certified podiatrist and founder of Step Up Footcare
- Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, board-certified podiatrist
“The benefit of an elevated heel or platform when standing for long hours is to minimize stress and strain on the calf, specifically the Achilles tendon,” says Nelya Lobkova, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist at Step Up Podiatry in New York City. That elevated heel—particularly those at a height of at least 5 centimeters—can alleviate pain across the foot in places like the arch, heel, and forefoot. “Besides the prior benefits, clogs offer a more trendy alternative to the sneaker casual look while offering minimal foot and lower back strain,” she says.
That said, it’s best to clog with caution. Dr. Lobkova recommends staying away from the slip-on varieties if you have high arches.”They cause a small amount of gripping or curling of the toes during walking in order to keep the shoe on the foot,” she says. “I don’t advise them for very high arched feet as their toes are typically hammered and curling in the first place, or those who have painful hammertoes.” Additionally, some can be expensive, so check out these Birkenstock clog dupes.
Similarly, clogs can be risky for those with weaker ankles. “There is a bit of a learning curve with clogs,” says Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, a podiatrist with the Foot & Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic. “Initially you want to break them in before moving too fast in them, which could cause injury if you are not used to it,” she says. “I have found that clogs are great for people that do a lot of standing but not necessarily for people that have to do long periods of walking on unstable ground.” If you’ll be doing some serious walking, check out these walking shoes or orthopedic shoes.
Take it from a podiatrist: Not all clogs are designed equally. Here are some podiatrist-approved picks to style this year for minimum effort and maximum comfort.
You can also check out these Birkenstock dupes for more clog options.
The most comfortable clogs
Best overall
Sizes available: 4.5-11.5, in half sizes
Dr. Parthasarathy is a huge fan of Dansko. For work, where she has to look professional while being on her feet all day, she loves these oiled leather clogs in a warm, distressed honey. Expect a roomy toe-box that literally gives your feet some extra wiggle room, plus super cushy outsoles that take on shock absorption.
Colors: 3
Pros:
- Reinforced toe box
- Shock absorbing
- Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association
Cons:
- Some reviewers say they need more cushioning
Best contoured footbed
Sizes available: 4-12.5, in half sizes and two widths
If your Birkenstock sandals need a break, these are a great alternative. Whether it’s to grab a coffee with friends or take your pup on a walk around the block, Dr. Lobkova always recommends Birkenstock for casual footwear. Each pair has a legendarily soft footbed as well as an adjustable strap for extra support. It’s available in a worn black, earthy mocha brown, and a light tan.
Colors: 3
Pros:
- Contoured footbed
- Adjustable strap
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Can slide off while walking
Best open-toe
Sizes available: 5.5-12, in half sizes
If you want a clog without that traditional full-clog look, meet the Dankso Season. This is another one of Dr. Parthasarathy’s go-tos, especially for casual wear during the warmer months. Each pair has a beveled sole for traction, while the adjustable ankle strap provides extra protection from sprains and rolls. It’s available in three gorgeous colors: a bright white, dark black, and classic camel leather.
Colors: 3
Pros:
- Seal of acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association
- Has traction
- Adjustable ankle straps
Cons:
- Limited colorways
Best perforated leather
Sizes available: 5-8.5
Add spring to your step with these Mary Jane-style clogs. They have a perforated leather upper for extra ventilation and a floral design that can make any outfit look fresh. Multiple Amazon reviewers also agree they’re comfortable and supportive, thanks to their cushioned insole. “Love these. Great fit and comfortable after a 12-hour shift,” attests one reviewer. They’re available in three options—beige, gray, and blue.
Colors: 3
Pros:
- Perforated leather upper
- Padded insole
- Adjustable strap
Cons:
- Not ideal for warmest days
Best washable
Sizes available: 5-14
Oofos are seriously the most comfortable shoes ever and their clogs are no different. They’re technically recovery shoes made with proprietary OOFoam that’s designed to cushion sore, tired feet and joints. Plus, the closed-cell foam each pair is made from is machine washable, so no more stinky shoes. Choose from a classic black, cream, or a stark, summery white.
Colors: 3
Pros:
- Footbed reduces stress on feet and joints
- Absorbs impact
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Doesn’t come in half sizes
Best lightweight
Sizes available: 6-12
Crocs are back and better than ever. If you need a clog you can wash off with a garden hose after planting flowers, these are the shoes for you. They’re incredibly lightweight and water-resistant, making them a great water shoe that won’t slip off. And they’re breathable—the built-in ventilation ports are designed to shed water (or sweat…), so no more “swamp toes.”
Colors: 28
Pros:
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Washable
- Has backstrap
Cons:
- Doesn’t come in half sizes
Best suede
Sizes available: 5-10.5
These colorful clogs feel as good as they look. The exterior is made from a soft suede, while the interior features a synthetic lining and plush footbed that’ll keep your feet from getting sore and tired.
Colors: 5
Pros:
- Contoured insole
- Breathable mesh lining
- Rubber sole
Cons:
- Runs big
- Suede is hard to clean
Best handmade
Sizes available: 6-11
For a good, solid clog, Dr. Lobkova recommends Swedish Hasbeens. These Swedish clogs are all handmade in Europe using sustainable, natural materials, like vegetable oiled-leather and lime wood. Pair them with a flared jean or denim shorts to complete the look.
Colors: 4
Pros:
- Rubberized outsole
- Leather upper
- Wooden platform heel
Cons:
- Runs narrow
Best rubber
Sizes available: 5-11
This is a Hunter tall boot in the shape of a clog, and these lightweight rubber clogs are great for keeping your feet clean in the garden or by the lake. When things get muddy, just pop out the removable insole and hose them down until your next wear. The black is classic, but who can resist a bright cherry red or a fun baby blue?
Colors: 15
Pros:
- Made of sturdy rubber
- Non-slip outsole
- Washable
Cons:
- Heavy
Best adjustable
Sizes available: 5-11
This Chaco clog has a waterproof suede upper and rubber sole, so you won’t have to worry about ruining them or slipping in wet weather. There’s an adjustable polyester webbing and lock buckle in case you need to tighten or loosen your shoes, and they’re available in two colors— natural and black.
Colors: 2
Pros:
- Cushioned insole
- Adjustable straps
- Waterproof
Cons:
- Runs narrow
Best minimalist
Sizes available: 5-11, in half sizes
With a smooth, single-piece leather upper, these clogs have a minimalist look that will go with any outfit. They have a built-in arch contour and a midsole that was designed by biomechanists to help absorb shock and diffuse underfoot pressure. Plus, they have the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance, so you know your feet will thank you later.
Colors: 2
Pros:
- Seal of acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association
- Shock absorbent
- Made of 100% leather
Cons:
- Slippery
Best Mary Jane
Sizes available: 4-11.5, in half sizes
Sandgrens is a Swedish brand that has been making clogs by hand since the early 1900s, with each pair taking 24 hours to make. This closed-toe sandal has a vegetable-tanned leather upper and an adjustable ankle strap, and they come in colors to match everything in your closet. The wooden base adds style and the rubber sole adds a grippy layer to prevent you from slipping while you walk.
Colors: 14
Pros:
- Adjustable strap
- Wooden sole
- Vegetable tanned leather upper
Cons:
- Runs narrow
Best for long wear
Sizes available: 5.5-14.5, in half sizes
Italian brand Calzuro’s clogs were designed for medical professionals, but anyone who spends a lot of their time on their feet will appreciate them. They come in bright colors, have slip-resistant soles, and are made entirely of rubber, which means they’re a breeze to rinse off. One Amazon reviewer wrote: “I have been wearing Calzuro since they began making them—I work in the operating room and need something supportive, comfortable and washable. These things are pretty indestructible, and can be run through a washer sterilizer if you really get them soiled. They are quiet—no clomping or squeaking when you walk. And they come in great colors!”
Colors: 13
Pros:
- Latex-free
- Slip-resistant sole
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Runs narrow
Best slip-resistant
Sizes available: 4-11
These Crocs are designed for food service, hospitality, and healthcare workers in mind, so they’re lightweight, supportive, and super comfortable even if you spend long hours on your feet. What’s more, they have a slip-resistant tread, are waterproof, and are easy to clean, too.
Colors: 2
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Slip-resistant
- Strap helps them stay on
Cons:
- Runs narrow
Best lined
Sizes available: 6-11
With the signature, soft UGG lining and a foam footbed, these clogs are a dream for your feet. They have a wooden clog look with a 2.75-inch heel, a leather upper, and a rubber sole for extra cushion and tread.
Colors: 2
Pros:
- Foam footbed
- Rubber sole
- Plush wool lining
Cons:
- Heavy
Best mesh
Sizes available: 5-12, in half sizes and two widths
Made of a leather and mesh upper, these Merrell clogs provide optimal airflow, so your feet stay dry and cool even in the height of the summer season. They are also made with EVA footbed and midsole for comfort, under-arch shanks for stability, and the brand’s patented “air cushion” to absorb shock with every step. The clogs are complete with a rubber outsole to hold you steady as you tread over rough terrain. Shop them in 13 options, from muted hues to classic colors, like black and white.
Colors: 12
Pros:
- EVA foam footbed and midsole
- Rubber sole
- Mesh and leather upper
Cons:
- Runs small
Best vegan
Sizes available: 5-13
Troentorp’s Da Vinci clogs come in a vegan leather option that are made in collaboration with the French vegan brand, Good Guys Don’t Wear Leather. Plus, they are soled in Troentorp’s varnished bottoms, making them waterproof and slip-resistant when you’re out in the elements.
Colors: 1
Pros:
- Ample arch support
- Waterproof upper
- Microfiber lining
Cons:
- Sizing is inconsistent
Best backstrap
Sizes available: 4-12.5, in half sizes and two widths
If you’re looking for a durable pair of clogs with a backstrap, look no further than Birkenstocks Tokio Super Grip. These clogs are designed with a comfortable and cushioned EVA midsole and an adjustable ankle strap for added support. What’s nice about these is the rigid, rubber outsole, which “helps prevent slippage when walking on wet surfaces,” says Miguel Cunha, DPM, a New York-based podiatrist and founder of Gotham Footcare.
Colors: 2
Pros:
- Available in two widths
- EVA midsole
- Rubber outsole that prevents slippage
- Has backstrap to prevent the foot from sliding out during movement
- Made of durable and long-lasting leather and rubber
Cons:
- Pricey
Best splurge
Sizes available: 6-9
Cunha recommends the Kacie clog because they “have a deep heel cup for stability and natural alignment and are designed with a faux wooden platform that is lightweight and makes the clog easier to wear.” Not only that, they’re chic thanks to the leather and studded upper, so you can rock these with flare jeans, skirts, and dresses.
Colors: 2
Pros:
- Stylish
- Made of leather
- Lightweight wooden platform
- Deep heel cup for stability
Cons:
- Expensive
FAQs
What is the most comfortable clog?
According to Dr. Cunha, the best clogs are the Dansko Professional Clogs. Not only have they been awarded the APMA seal of acceptance, they “have a wide and protective heel counter that provides ankle stability while allowing the heel to move up and down freely,” Dr. Cunha says. What’s more, they’re anatomically contoured and have a well padded footbed, which offers arch support. “Last but not least, these clogs have an anti-fatigue rocker bottom that helps propel your foot forward during heel strike for maximum shock absorption and energy return with every step.”
Do podiatrists recommend clogs?
Yes! Podiatrists, including Dr. Cunha recommends the Dansko Professional Clog, “as it is the most comfortable clog and has been awarded the APMA seal of acceptance.”
Why are Dasko clogs so comfortable?
There are a myriad of factors that make Dasko clogs so darn comfy. Dr. Cunha notes that the craftsmanship and high-quality manufacturing process are to thank, as well as the anatomical arch, cushioning, ankle stability, and wide toe box.
“Dansko clogs have contoured footbeds that help support your arches and distribute your weight evenly across your feet to reduce tension and fatigue of your foot,” he says. The brand’s clogs also boast a wide protective heel counter, allowing the heel to move freely up and down, and a wide toe box to accommodate all of your toes. They’re also made of quality materials like leather and slip-resistant outsoles, making them durable and ideal for slippery surfaces.
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