Embracing timeless Americana style, Clarks introduces the Wallabee Boat - a fresh iteration of their iconic Wallabee silhouette. Crafted from their famous buttery soft suedes, the Wallabee Boat is an all new addition to their arsenal as a part of their SS24 line-up & will no doubt become a summer staple style over the coming season.
History Of The Boat Shoe
The boat shoe, also referred to as the deck shoe or top-sider, has traversed a familiar trajectory, evolving from its origins as practical workwear to emerge as a timeless staple in both men's and women's footwear. In 1980, with the release of The Official Preppy Handbook by Lisa Birnbach, the boat shoe gained recognition as an essential element of preppy fashion.
However, its appeal extends beyond preppy circles, finding a place in the wardrobes of diverse individuals. Renowned for their distinctive design and construction, boat shoes excel not only on deck but also serve as ideal summer footwear for a wide range of occasions. Boat shoes are also often to refereed to as 'Lugs' - for example the Timberland 3-Eye Lug.
Story Behind The Wallabee
In 1968, Lance Clark drew inspiration from the German shoe company Sioux's moccasin, the "Grasshopper," to conceive the Wallabee. Manufactured initially in Kilkenny, Ireland, the original shoe broke from convention with its crepe-soled, lace-up design, diverging sharply from the pointed or rounded styles prevalent in the English market of the era.
The latest Wallabee Boat celebrates this heritage with a stylish cola and maple suede colour palette. Balanced in proportions, its chunky crepe sole retains its natural appearance for a contemporary yet nostalgic vibe, complemented with draped suede uppers that elevate its premium aesthetic and versatility.
The maple suede colourway features the flat lacing system found on the classic Wallabee, whilst the Cola Suede hosts the more classic 360- functional rawhide lacing system - famously seen on boat shoes alike such as the Timberland 3-Eye Lug.
Shop the Wallabee Boat & our full Clarks Originals collection below, available online & in-store now at Stuarts London.