Tuesday, 25 August 2020

WHY CHOOSE SHEARLING CLOG BOOTS?

Over a century ago, Swedish cobblers began to make a special type of wooden shoes commonly known as clogs, as a protection against sharp and often cold Nordic weather. Term ‘clog’ refers to any type of shoe with a wooden sole. Traditionally used by farmers, laborers, and peasants as safe and practical footwear, wooden clogs have been known in many cultures for centuries (Netherlands, Turkey, Japan, Sweden, just to mention a few). However, during the 1970s with a rise of healthy lifestyle trends Swedish wooden clogs or “trätofflor” became popular worldwide. Since then, many types of Swedish wooden clogs have been made, and clog boots are just one of many styles you’ll find in contemporary clog shops. 

Heel boots, classic clog boots, with or without laces, Swedish clog boots have found their customers among both men and women of all ages. Because of natural materials (leather and wood) that allow the foot to breathe, clog boots are suitable for several seasons and they can fit many different styles. However, if you are looking for extra warm winter boots, shearling clog boots are maybe just the right thing for you. 

Shearling is a skin from a recently shorn sheep or lamb that has been tanned and dressed in the wool left on. It is a very warm and soft material that breathes and insulates naturally. In the clog making process, it is used as a warm lining for both clog boots and classic open-back clogs. In combination with an upper made in shiny, pull up or suede leather, clog boots lined with shearling are durable and precious winter shoes that are very suitable for cold winter days.

How those winter clogs are made? Clog crafting is a complicated skill that takes years to master. It took a few decades of experimenting and improving design and techniques until the Swedish cobblers came out with comfortable, durable clog boots. The process starts with making the distinctive wooden clog bottoms. The logs are sawn up into different dimensions depending on the model and size of the wooden bottom to be produced. After the drying, planks are cut up to different lengths according to the size of the bottom. The unique clog bottom with its raised heel and arch support is formed during the milling phase. When milling is done, the wood and the outsole are carefully pressed together. After clicking the upper leather, linings are attached and stitched together with the upper. Once they are carefully checked, wooden clog boots can enter the dying room. Once dry, clogs are put to cool down before cobbler removes the last.

Swedish clogs are praised for their anatomically shaped wooden bottoms, that proved both practical and healthy for the lower back and overall posture of the body. Experts say that wooden bottoms soften the impact of walking on hard surfaces and provide even support across the entire foot. That’s why many medical workers, chefs, and professionals who spend many working hours on their feet embraced the traditional Scandinavian clogs as their favorite work shoes.

Practical footwear, but at the same time symbol of one’s authentic style, clog boots are the choice of people who look for quality and comfort. Keep your shearling clog boots dry, and in case they get wet do not leave them near the heater, but let them dry in a ventilated room. Also, avoid leaving your shearling boots in the direct sun, and if you want to use some care product (impregnation spray or cream), ask in your shoe repair shop for the advice. Follow those simple rules, and enjoy the winter in Swedish style!

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