Clarks was founded in 1825 and has been making high-quality leather shoes ever since. In fact, the footwear label has such a dedicated following because it has produced the same core designs for most of the 20th and 21st centuries. In its 200-year history, though, a few moments stand out. In 1950, the Clarks Originals Desert Boot was released and the ‘60s saw it become the style of choice for UK mods, reggae musicians, and countless other subcultures. On the back of the Desert Boot’s success came Clarks Wallabees in 1970.
Clarks Wallabees have been an enduring design for the brand, barely changing over half a century, and never losing its place in style’s hall of fame. The moccasin-style shoe is as popular as ever today among a much-varied customer base.
The subject of many collaboration pieces, including those with the likes of Aimé Leon Dore, Supreme, Levi’s, and more, Clarks Wallabees are a cultural touchpoint that crosses generations and styles. Plus, as we move into the post-sneaker world, the Wallabee presents the perfect everyday style for those hankering for something as laid-back as a sneaker.
That said, it’s easy to have gone through the world oblivious to the various off-shoots, special iterations, and sister models of the Wallabee – all of which are just as charming and wearable, if a bit edgier.
Shop the best alternatives for Clarks Wallabees below:
Clarks Originals Wallabee Derbys
A classic earthy colorway of the Wallabee is the fan-favorite for good reason. This pair as versatile as the OG, but with a twist that stands out.
Clarks Originals Wallabee Derbys
Too close still? These cool gray hues offer similar versatility to the above beige iteration, exemplifying the true power of neutrals.
Clarks Originals Wallabee Derbys
Not enough edge? This sour green will be to your outfit the same exhilarating jolt as to bite a slice of lime is to your tastebuds.
Clarks Originals Wallabee Suede Sneakers
Back in the neutral color palette, this pair of boney-colored Wallabee kicks is different from its classic silhouette. These feature a creamy white brogue pattern in form of a more traditional sneaker.
Clarks Originals x Slam Jam Wallabees Black
While smooth suede is the material of choice when it comes to Wallabees, this black pair adds two styles of geometric embroidery – making a good case for switching it up.
A Bathing Ape x Clarks Originals Wallabee
AAPEClarks OriginalsA Bathing Ape Wallabee ‘Light Blue Camo’
In collaboration with A Bathing Ape, Clarks Originals once made things a bit more interesting by going for a half baby blue suede, half camo canvas composition.
Clarks Originals Woven Loafer
Back in the day, Wallabees were among our dad’s go-to footwear rotation. Cut to today, there are plenty of new silhouettes worthy of topping every wishlist. Keeping what makes the original special, the leather weave technique in a similar camel-like tone makes for more playful reinvention.
Supreme x Clarks Originals Wallabee
Supreme x Clarks OriginalsSupreme Wallabee ‘Gold’
Continuing with another fun guest edit of Clarks Originals, these Supreme Wallabees are fire – literally.
Packer Shoes x Clarks Originals Wallabee
Packer ShoesClarks OriginalsPacker Shoes Wallabee ‘Tan Croc’
Animal prints are all the rave, so this collab was somewhat ahead of its time, what might argue. These crocodile-embossed Wallabees are yet another demonstration of how to take a given template and tweak it without casting aside what made it cool in the first place.
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