Growing up in Houston, boots have always been a part of my world. When most people think of Texas, they might immediately picture cowboy boots worn by rodeo enthusiasts or the sturdy steel-toe boots used by oil and gas workers. Boots are year-round essentials here. However, my personal style was never in line with these traditional Texas boot staples. For the longest time, I avoided boots altogether, trying to escape the stereotypical Texan image. That all changed when I discovered the chukka boot—an elegant, mid-ankle style with minimalist two-eyelet lacing and a thin sole that’s worlds apart from cowboy footwear. Worn by style icons like Steve McQueen and Anthony Bourdain, chukkas were the first boots I felt aligned with my sense of fashion.
A decade ago, after doing some research, I came across Clarks’ Desert Boots, first introduced by Nathan Clark in 1950. This design quickly became my go-to.
What Makes Clarks’ Desert Boots Stand Out?
I have to admit that the first time I saw chukkas was in the 1968 film Bullitt. Watching Steve McQueen chase down criminals in a sleek Mustang, with his foot encased in a tobacco-brown chukka, was the inspiration I needed to buy my first pair of Clarks Desert Boots. The endorsement from such a style legend sealed the deal.
When I opened the box, I was struck by how lightweight these boots were. I didn’t expect them to be as heavy as work boots, but I was surprised to find that they felt more like worn-in dress shoes than a pair of rugged boots. The soft leather upper provides flexibility at the ankle, while the crepe rubber sole—made from natural latex—offers a cushioned feel. One of the most notable aspects is that these boots require no break-in period. Unlike many other leather shoes that need time to soften, Clarks Desert Boots feel comfortable from day one.
Sizing can be a tricky aspect with boots, but the Desert Boots are true to the common rule: sizing down by a half or full size usually ensures a snug fit. I opted for a size 10, down from my usual 10.5, and the fit was perfect. I barely needed to tighten the laces, which was a plus since I prefer not to constrict my feet. The simple two-eyelet lacing system also makes it easy to slip the boots on and off, making them ideal for travel. Another bonus is their soft structure, allowing them to pack easily into a carry-on without taking up too much space.
Stylistically, these boots are versatile enough to dress up with trousers or pair with jeans for a more casual look. Unlike narrow dress shoes, Clarks’ Desert Boots offer a comfortable toe box that doesn’t pinch, making them practical for all-day wear. One of the key features that I appreciate is their stitched-down construction. Instead of the upper being glued to the sole, it’s sewn on, making the boots more durable. This design also means you can send the boots back to Clarks for repairs, further extending their lifespan.
Over the past decade, my trusty pair of Desert Boots has been my go-to for a variety of occasions. The Teak color, which has since been discontinued, is particularly versatile—it doesn’t show wear as easily as lighter-colored suedes, making it perfect for concerts, camping trips, or casual outings. If I were to purchase another pair, I’d likely choose a darker shade to avoid frequent cleaning and scuffing.
Drawbacks of Clarks’ Desert Boots
While I’m a big fan of these boots, they aren’t without their flaws. One significant issue is the sole’s lack of traction. The crepe sole, while comfortable, offers little grip on wet or slick surfaces. On more than one occasion, I’ve nearly slipped while walking across a rainy street. It’s an issue that becomes all too real when you’re trying to stay upright in a downpour.
Another potential downside is the ubiquity of the Desert Boot. After 70 years, Clarks has become a household name, and you’re likely to spot these boots on others in any given setting. If you’re someone who prefers unique, stand-out pieces, you might find this a bit off-putting.
Are Clarks’ Desert Boots Worth It?
Despite some minor drawbacks, the answer is yes. Clarks’ Desert Boots are both stylish and comfortable, suitable for long-term wear without breaking the bank. Many users opt to wear them into the ground before considering a replacement, as the cost of resoling them through Clarks may seem like more trouble than it’s worth for some.
However, I’d consider these boots an excellent “starter” chukka. If you’re ready to explore higher-end options, brands like Red Wing and Huckberry offer variations of the chukka boot, often made with premium materials and unique details. Still, Clarks’ Desert Boots hold a nostalgic place in my heart, reminding me of my college days when I was searching for a new style. Back then, I wasn’t quite the cool and confident Steve McQueen, and I certainly couldn’t afford a Mustang, but I could invest in a great pair of boots that has stood the test of time.
In summary, Clarks’ Desert Boots are a solid investment for anyone looking for a comfortable, stylish, and versatile boot. Whether you’re just starting to experiment with your wardrobe or you’re a seasoned fashion enthusiast, these boots are hard to beat.
