You may think that the only people who wear clogs are nurses, the elderly, and chefs. However, in the past few years, clogs have exploded as a bold fashion statement and are even being seen featured on runaways by top designer brands. As the media sweeps clogs into a whirlwind of avant-garde couture and front covers, it’s time to give a nod to the groups that were always clog loyalists.
Clogs are frequently worn by professionals who work under unconventional circumstances. There aren’t many careers where it’s necessary that your footwear be comfortable, easy to move in, and slip-resistant, but chefs fall into this category. Clogs are the perfect solution to many of the struggles chefs face during their long shifts, and they might just be the perfect solution for you, too.
Reasons Kitchen Professionals Wear Clogs
Chefs can work up to twelve-hour shifts, with the majority of that time spent on their feet. Think aching feet and lower backs – appropriate footwear is a must! Clogs are specifically designed to support your foot for extended periods of time, which results in merry feet, ankles, knees, and backs!
We know clogs serve a functional purpose, but are clogs fashionable? Just last year, clogs were strutting down the Hermès catwalk and were being worn by music sensation, Dua Lipa. It seems counterintuitive to think of high fashion when imagining your favourite chef rushing about a busy kitchen, but the clog club welcomes all sorts of members!
Let’s dive into the staple features of clogs, and why they’ve been a timeless choice for chefs and kitchen workers.
Arch Support and Comfort
Professional kitchens are high-pressure environments, which makes comfortable footwear nonnegotiable. With comfy footwear, you’re able to focus on the task at hand. Being able to move quickly and painlessly during long shifts makes everyone merrier!
Modern clogs, like these ones from Merry People, incorporate materials that reduce pressure points on the foot and help absorb foot impact from long periods of standing. High-quality clogs also include heel padding and arch support.
Hygiene Purposes
If you’ve ever cooked a meal, you know splatters and spills happen. While these messes can cause safety concerns, they can also stain shoes. Luckily, Merry People clogs are made with easy-to-clean material – which also makes them great for the garden! In most cases, all you need is a hose and your shoes are clean and good to go again. Having shoes that can be both hand-cleaned and worn daily is essential to a busy chef.
Ease of Use
Without laces or buckles, clogs are the perfect shoe for a trip-free work shift. There’s no threat of an untied lace slinking underneath your other foot as you rush to plate that last dessert. With its backless design, the clog can quickly slip off in the event of hot liquid spills.
One Foot Out the Door, Both Feet in Clogs
Clogs have successfully cemented themselves as a permanent part of any professional chef’s uniform. They are a necessity for working in this fast-paced, high-stress industry, especially when hustling to fill orders during a lunchtime rush.
Clogs are a stylish and comfortable investment for the chef in your life. There are clogs for men, women, and everyone in between. We recommend trying a pair of our Billie Clogs. The Billie Clog comes in colours that pop, as well as neutrals that can be seamlessly integrated into your work uniform. This clog's unique style and comfort allow it to be a great choice for the worker who is always on their feet.
