CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN
The extraordinary mens blog for the modern man
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These Boots are, literally, made for walking. The Desert Boot

Screen Shot 2013-09-09 at 19.23.17The Desert Boot has to be one, if not the, most versatile and comfortable styles of footwear. Its design is simple an ankle-length boots with two or three pairs of eyelets for lacing, which were originally worn by the British Armed forces in the Western Desert Campaign of World War II. The soldiers had discovered that these boots were not only hard-wearing and durable, but also light weight and unbelievably comfortable, hence their name. The feature the boot is most famous for is there crepe rubber sole, which ensure their comfort fit and blister free enjoyment.

The Desert boot firmly cemented its place in modern day popular culture by being key within several fundamental sub culture looks. Principally the Beatnik movement of the 1950’s and early 60’s who adopted the easy footwear and the Mods, who showed the versatility of the boot by wearing them stylishly, both in a causal and formal manner. Plus, along with their quintessential scooters became essential to finishing this much loved look.

Screen Shot 2013-09-09 at 19.20.08Over the years such influential dapper figures as Bob Dylan, Steve McQueen, Paul Weller and Liam Gallagher have all been known as lovers of the crepe soled wonders and even figures within state Parliament and Royal establishments have been known to partake in the wearing of them.

If you’re looking for a pair for those long cold Winter months and not sure of colour or style take a look at desertboots.com They are the leading online retailer of suede and leather desert boots and shoes.  Having been established since 1985,  their range is one of the most diverse available and boasts a huge selection of desert boots to cater for every style and taste.

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Happy 65th Birthday to Clarks Desert Boot !!!

imageThe Brogue, Monk Shoe and Oxford are all easily recognisable names of different types of footwear but none of these are celebrating their 65th Birthday this year and there is definitely no sign of this style of shoe being put out to pasture or drawing its pension. The Desert Boot has to easily be one of the most iconic and recognised forms of footwear ever produced.

It was inspired by Nathan Clark’s(see above), yes he of the Clark’s well heeled Dynasty, time in Burma during the war when off-duty soldiers wore a similar casual suede boot picked up in the bazaars of back town Cairo. First sold back in 1950, the first, and the true Desert Boot, is still crafted using the ‘Hand of Clarks’ detailing which stands it apart as the real deal; including leather from an English tannery named Charles F. Stead, still used today. The boot also includes authentic techniques such as ‘stitchdown construction’ where the upper is unusually turned outwards rather than ‘lasted-in’ under the insole.

Over the years such influential dapper figures as Bob Dylan, Steve McQueen, Paul Weller and Liam Gallagher have all been known as lovers of the crepe soled wonders and even figures within state Parliament and Royal establishments have been known to partake in the wearing of them.

In celebration of the iconic anniversary of Clarks Originals’ arguably most-loved silhouette; a special edition boot has been created in Maple Suede – complete with commemorative fob and statement sapphire laces. A fitting colour accent, as sapphire blue is the precious stone reflective of a 65th anniversary.

Desert Boot Maple Suede £89 €115