Five reasons why kitchen chefs should wear wooden clogs

 For professional cooks and chefs, a pair of comfortable shoes is as essential as a good knife. With shifts up to 14 hours a day, kitchen professionals are usually on their feet most of the day. Also, the kitchen environment can be a dangerous place to work.

To prevent accidents and health issues, chefs need to wear shoes that will keep them comfortable and safe. That’s why kitchen clogs and safety clogs have their reputations as all-time kitchen classics. Here are the five (among much more) reasons why the kitchen & clog story is a story with a happy end.  

Kitchen Clogs are Comfortable

Chef clogs are designed to provide maximum comfort and traction on kitchen floors. The uppers of kitchen clogs are made from healthy, natural materials such as leather (although there are many other options, like rubber, microfiber, felt). For making a footbed, Swedish cobblers traditionally use Alderwood or lime wood, types of wood known for their natural antibacterial characteristic and excellent moist absorption. Many work clogs have an added layer of Grip-tech PU on their sole to provide additional comfort and slip resistance. The two most popular kitchen clog styles are classical Swedish open back clogs and practical closed-back clogs.

Clogs are good for your back

Professional clogs are designed to provide foot support for long periods and prevent blisters and other foot irritation. Anatomically shaped footbeds give support and even weight distribution across the foot, providing an optimal angle for support and posture. On the other hand, padding guarantees extra stability and prevents slipping on the kitchen floor. Easy to slip on and off, they are also super practical shoes for the whole kitchen staff.

Clogs are safe

Among many Swedish clog styles, you’ll find collections of work clog equipped with steel toe and slip-resistant bottom to prevent chefs from injuring themselves in an often challenging kitchen environment. With sharp knives, heavy machines, ovens, hot liquids, and slippery surfaces, a moment of inattention could result in severe injuries. Although a pair of shoes could not save you in every situation, no doubt it can provide some protection.

Clogs are made from natural materials

In Sweden, the birthplace of wooden clogs, the tradition of making kitchen clogs is very long. Wooden clogs, also known as toffels in southern Sweden, have been manufactured in wood and leather for over 100 years. It is not clear why cobblers began to make shoes out of wood, but it was probably because the wood protected against the often unpleasant Swedish weather.  During the 60s and 70s, with the rise of popularity of clogs, many clog factories and workshops were built in southern Sweden. Practicality, functionality, and the high quality of the final product make Swedish clogs one of the most popular kitchen shoes.

Clogs are made to last

Swedish clogs are often made in small family-owned factories from natural and eco-conscious materials. From expertly handcrafted professional clogs to more fashionable sandals, boots, and heel-clogs, Swedish clogs are available in different styles suitable for professional and everyday use. All of them are still made by hand, from their wooden bottoms to the last nail. Redesigned and adjusted to meet pros demands in terms of comfort and stability, kitchen clogs are here to stay.