Clarks Originals

The earliest incarnation of Clarks was set up by the brothers Cyrus and James Clark in 1825. They initially specialised in leather goods but soon hit upon the idea of manufacturing sheepskin rugs and slippers.

From as early as 1893, Clarks focused on comfort and it was that reputation that fuelled their growth into the early 20th century. Following the Second World War, a young Nathan Clark was serving in Burma with the West African Brigade when some locally produced Desert Boots caught his eye. Featuring a crepe sole and rough suede from Cairo's fabled Old Bazaar, their conspicuous comfort struck a chord with Nathan and he moved quickly to create a Clarks version.

The Desert Boot was just the beginning for what we now know Clarks to be. In 1965 the understandably ubiquitous Wallabee model was launched and almost 50 years later it is more popular than ever.

Not content with just a couple of success stories Clarks have kept a keen eye on development, making sure their shoes retain the character that gained them popularity. With the emphasis on character and comfort, they continues to produce genuinely smart shoes and long may it continue.

The company is still controlled by the Clark family and is still based in the town of Street, Somerset.