Why Clogs Make the Ideal Travel Footwear

When I was a child, I couldn't understand why my parents wore clogs everywhere—from gardening to grocery shopping and even at work. Now, years later, I realize the versatility they offered, much like what my parents recognized. I’ve accumulated several pairs in different colors, styles, and materials over the years.

Clogs are also fantastic for travel. They’re easy to slip on and off, eliminating the hassle of shoelaces that can trip you up or come undone. In a classic color, they can be easily dressed up or down; I often wear a pair of rubber clogs to the beach, rinse them off, and then style them with nice trousers or a dress for dinner. Here are some of my top choices.

Bodega Clog from SeaVees

Crafted from recycled rubber with a pull tab made of recycled cotton, these clogs are inspired by the rugged beauty of Northern California’s Bodega Bay, perfectly balancing durability with style. They feature an ultra-grooved low heel for excellent grip, making them my top choice for traversing difficult terrains—be it slippery cobblestone streets or uneven fields—and for weather that can change in an instant (looking at you, Iceland). Plus, for every pair purchased, $1 supports the Ecology Center, a 28-acre farm and educational facility in Southern California.

Classic Clog by Calzuro

When I first introduced these clogs to a friend living in Italy, she remarked, “Those look like the ones Italian doctors wear.” She was absolutely right: Originally designed in Italy in 1983 for healthcare professionals, Calzuro clogs are easy to maintain—wash them with bleach or simply toss them in the dishwasher or washing machine. Cleaning off sand and dirt is a breeze with just a hose. Excitingly, they come in a variety of colors like sky blue, sunshine yellow, and orange (my latest addition is bubblegum pink). With a lightweight design featuring a 1.5-inch heel, these slim plastic clogs are available with or without ventilation holes in unisex sizes. I usually wear them while traveling or to elevate my outfit for a night out—most recently at an art performance in Oakland. Just a heads up: the nubbled footbed may take a little time to get used to.

Tokio Super Grip Clog from Birkenstock

If there were an award for the Clog of Creatives, the Birkenstock Tokio Super Grip might just win it: I’ve spotted artists, curators, and chefs sporting these leather clogs in cities like Brussels, New York, and Athens (not to mention the chefs featured in The Bear). Although they require some time to break in, they are a fantastic investment; over time, the natural leather upper and lower parts of the shoe conform to your foot’s shape. The cork footbed is both cushy and supportive without sacrificing comfort, and the adjustable strap allows you to customize the fit based on sock thickness (or lack thereof). During dry days and cooler months, I often wear these for long days of exploring the city.

Dansko Professional Clog

Among the available options, the Dansko Professional clog stands out for several reasons: It features the tallest heel at two inches, a closed back for added heel support, and a spacious toe box that allows your foot to easily slide in and out when worn correctly. Additionally, its unique rocking bottom design propels you forward as you walk. This thoughtfully engineered shoe has earned the American Podiatric Medical Association’s seal of acceptance, and it doesn’t hurt that it looks great too. I’ve had my black oiled pair for several years, and the leather upper remains nearly pristine, thanks to the 3M Scotchgard treatment that guards against stains and scuffs. I’m not alone in my admiration: Dinogo contributor Ashlea Halpern recently wore hers for a nice dinner on a cruise and remarked, “They’re a bit heavy to pack, but incredibly versatile and quite waterproof if you get caught in the rain. Chefs wear them all day for a reason!”