Clarks Walabees Maple Suede

A timeless icon

Clarks was founded in 1825 in Somerset, England, by two brothers. The Clarks company initially manufactured carpets, from which the scraps were later used to make the first slippers. Clarks achieved its breakthrough in 1950 with the Desert Boot, a chukka boot inspired by the shoes worn by British army officers in the markets of Cairo.

The Wallabee was created in 1967, but the model didn't immediately catch on in Great Britain, considered too radical for the tastes of the time. In the USA, the Wallabee found more appeal among the hippie and resistance scene, as well as among artists. Especially in Jamaica, the Wallabee and Clarks in general are a big part of the art and music scene. Adapted by the Rude Boys in the 1970s and later revived by hip hop legends like Run DMC and the Wu Tang Clan, the Wallabee represents rebellious subculture more than almost any other shoe, and to this day, it continues to represent this rebellious subculture.

Clarks Wallabee Maple SuedeClarks Wallabee Black Suede

Clarks Wallabee Black Suede styled with wide blue Denim by Waterkant Store


The combination of the two-part suede upper with waxed laces and the crepe sole made of natural latex is unmistakable and iconic, yet stylistically quite understated and understated. While Wallabees come in a wide variety of colors today, the classics remain the maple-colored light suede or the black suede version with the matching black sole. Clarks not only shine in streetwear outfits, but also fit perfectly into more minimalist outfits and styles. Wallabees are a true all-rounder; whether paired with jeans or light linen trousers for more streetwear-inspired fits or Scandinavian minimalism, the Wallabee is never out of place and brings a calmness and serenity that conventional sneakers or leather shoes simply can't match.

The Wallabee also impresses with its outstanding craftsmanship and materials that age beautifully. The buttery-soft suede upper darkens with wear, giving the shoe the look of a well-cared-for old leather jacket: a worn-in, personal favorite that you'll still want to wear years later as much as the day you wore it.

In its light beige maple suede colorway, the Wallabee exudes a relaxed vibe that pairs well with many muted earth tones and pastels, making it perfect for the sunnier months. The black suede version can be effortlessly dressed up or down. With suit trousers and a turtleneck, it takes on a similarly formal role to a loafer or derby, but with a slightly more casual appearance. With dark jeans and a shirt, or with shorts, skirts, or dresses, it refines your casual evening outfit while still remaining classy and understated.

For our team, the Wallabee has become a classic all-rounder, always worn when we need to move quickly but still look effortlessly good. The special rounded toe and the crepe sole simply have that certain something that makes the shoe command a second glance in any context, without standing out too much or stealing the spotlight. The key phrase is "quietly attracting attention." We were fascinated as teenagers and are still thrilled to this day that such a niche shoe is so popular and celebrated.

And speaking of celebrating: On April 26, Clarks celebrates the iconic moccasin with Wallabee Day . And this year, it's even doubled with the 200th anniversary of the Clark's company! So feel free to stop by our store and get some advice, or browse online and find the perfect Wallabee for you... because everyone should have at least one.

Niklas Hormanns