Men's Clogs: The Summer Shoe Nobody Saw Coming

Clogs for men are back — and this time not as a nostalgia piece, but as a serious styling tool. The shoe that spent decades being written off as uncool has established itself over the last two seasons as one of the most versatile summer shoes in the men's repertoire. The reason is as simple as it is convincing: the slim, clean silhouette of a modern men's clog fits a fashion world that currently values comfort, craft and the discreet charm of classic shoe shapes.

Why clogs work for men right now

The men's clog comeback follows the same pattern as many current menswear trends: what's comfortable comes back — but refined. Today's men's clog has little in common with the broad, clunky shoe of the 1970s. It's slim, cleverly built, and lives off a clean silhouette that combines style with everyday usefulness effortlessly.

Then there's the old money effect: classic shoe shapes in quality materials — that's exactly this aesthetic. A suede clog in beige or brown looks like quality without looking flashy. No logo, no fuss — just shape and material, speaking for themselves.

For a British summer there are solid practical arguments too: a slip-on construction for quick use, a breathable upper on warm days, an ergonomically shaped footbed for longer wearing times. The clog is simply the most comfortable shoe you can put on in seconds in the morning — and still not look as though you've given up.

What makes a good suede clog

Not every clog is the same. The decisive factor is the upper. Suede — or a good microfibre in a suede finish — is the best choice for men who want a clog that still looks like quality on a second glance.

Other features that matter:

• A slim silhouette: a broad upper drags the whole shoe down. A clog with a narrow, clean line fits into almost any look without dominating it.
• An adjustable buckle detail: a buckle over the instep prevents rubbing and allows an individually fitted hold. That detail is what visually separates the modern men's clog from a pure leisure shoe.
• An ergonomic footbed: an orthopaedically shaped inner structure protects the ball of the foot and the heel over longer wear. Decisive for anyone who wants to wear the shoe out and about, not just on the balcony.
• A flat to slightly raised sole: too much heel turns the clog into a style error. Flat, or with a minimal platform — no more than that.

Colours and their effect: which clog for which look?

The colour decides whether a clog reads as relaxed, elegant or attention-seeking. For a first pair the rule is: start neutral, risk colour later.

• Beige / sand: the most neutral and versatile choice. Works equally with linen trousers, chinos and shorts. Delivers the light old money effect immediately. Ideal as a first pair.
• Brown: the heritage option. Warmer and more characterful than beige, easy to combine with earth tones, olive green and khaki. Especially good with structured chinos or cargo trousers.
• Black: the most versatile evening clog. Can be worn with smart casual looks when the rest of the outfit holds up. The most neutral choice for anyone who doesn't want to risk a colour mistake.
• Burgundy: the boldest thing on the shelf. It works as a deliberate accent against neutral outfits in grey, beige or navy. Only for wearers who carry the look confidently and don't need to explain it.
• Green (olive): fits the current outdoor menswear wave perfectly. Good with khaki, cream and brown tones — and ideal with a pair of cargo trousers.

Five men's clog outfits that genuinely work

• Summer standard: beige suede clog + linen trousers in cream or light blue + a white crew-neck shirt. The most relaxed and at the same time most coherent summer look with clogs there is.
• Weekend casual: brown clog + cargo shorts in khaki + a light grey linen shirt worn open. Relaxed without looking careless.
• Smart casual evening: black clog + slim-cut chinos in dark grey or navy + a white Oxford shirt. The safest smart casual move with clogs — it works for plenty of restaurants and easy evening events.
• Beach and city: beige or olive clog + shorts + a loose white T-shirt. Comfortable enough for a long summer day, stylish enough for the early evening.
• Old money weekend: brown clog + beige summer trousers + a classic short-sleeve shirt or a striped polo. This look needs no explanation — it just works.

What to avoid with clogs

Clogs are versatile, but not all-powerful. Some combinations make the shoe read wrong:

• Heavy, dark trousers such as black denim or wool trousers: the clog is a summer shoe. In looks that don't suit the season, it loses its character.
• Formal suit trousers: a business suit and a clog don't belong together. The shoe lives off its ease — combined with a suit it looks out of place.
• Volume on both sides: if the trousers and the top are both very wide, the overall line disappears. Always pair the clog with a slimmer silhouette above.
• Socks: ankle-length or longer socks under a clog destroy its entire character. If you need socks, choose a different shoe.

Buying tips: what to look for in men's clogs

A good men's clog doesn't have to be a major investment — but it should be soundly made. The most important points before buying:

• Feel the upper: good suede or microfibre feels soft, gives, and holds its shape.
• Check the buckle: the buckle carries the shoe every day — it should sit firmly and have no sharp edges.
• Inspect the footbed: in a shoe worn daily, an orthopaedically shaped footbed isn't a luxury but a necessity.
• Mind the size: clogs often come up slightly smaller than other shoe types. Ordering a size up isn't unusual — better to ask than to wear them too tight.

Our men's suede clogs come in five colours from beige to burgundy, and the full range of men's shoes is available directly at Chaps London.