If you ever teased your mom about her go-to gardening shoes, you may want to call her up and apologize, because clogs are officially "cool" again.
In recent years we’ve seen plenty of these “ugly” shoes make their way into the mainstream. Dad sneakers and Birkenstocks were once considered clunky and out of style, but now you'd be hard-pressed to find any trendsetter without at least one pair in their closet. And now, the same thing can be said about clogs.
Ask a nurse, restaurant worker, teacher or, really, just about anyone else whose job requires them to stand on their feet for hours on end and they will tell you that the style is a go-to for comfort. But now others are finally getting in on the secret. Searches for "clogs" reached an all-time high in Nov. 2024, according to Google Trends and they're still continuing to trend this spring.
They're breathable, comfortable and regardless of what some people say, we'd argue that they're pretty stylish too, so they're the perfect choice to help you transition into the new season — or to wear all year long.
Keep reading to discover why both podiatrists and our own editors love the style.
Are clogs good for your feet?
While not all clogs are created equal, many of them are actually pretty good for your feet. "Clogs tend to have a supportive, anti-fatigue footbed and roomy toe box that help prevent stress and strain on the feet," shares Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, a podiatrist in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Because they have a supportive structure, Dr. Suzanne C. Fuchs says that they can be beneficial for those who spend long hours on their feet. She says that anyone who has to stand for extended periods "may appreciate the support and cushioning," while "nurses and doctors who are on their feet all day may find clogs provide comfort and support."
Clogs also tend to have "a stiff forefoot rocker," which Parthasarathy says can help reduce stress on the feet and calves "and help painful foot conditions such as ball of the foot pain and arthritis in the big toe joint."
What to look for in clogs
When shopping for clogs, you want to avoid choosing a pair that doesn't have supportive features or is too loose, as these can lead to problems like blisters or instability, Fuchs says.
There are a handful of key factors to look for, especially if you need a pair for long days of standing at work, including durable material, slip-resistant soles, stiff forefoot rocker and a protective back, Parthasarathy shares. "I tend to like the softer leather clogs as they expand more during the day as your feet swell."
Keep reading to shop trending as well as expert and editor-loved styles.
Best trending clogs
Crocs Dylan Clogs
- Deep heel cups
- Mimics look of leather
- Limited sizes/colors avail
Colors: 4 | Sizes: 4-19 | Available in wide sizes?: No
After a certain celebrity was spotted wearing these clogs, they went viral. Searches for the clogs spiked by 50% in the last 90 days, according to Google Trends. And they've become so popular that select colors and sizes have sold out.
They're designed to mimic the look of leather, but they're actually made from an EVA material — so not only are they more affordable, but they're easy to clean, too. According to the brand, the shoes have deep heel cups to cradle your feet and provide support and comfort.
Rothy’s The Casual Clog
- Contoured footbed
- Traction sole
- Runs big
Colors: 7 | Sizes: 5-13 | Available in wide sizes?: No
Rothy's is a celebrity-loved brand known for its comfortable flats, loafers and more shoes. And these clogs have become a recent favorite among shoppers — according to Google Trends, searches for the style have risen by 1,650% in the past 90 days.
And they also just so happen to be expert-recommended. Parthasarathy likes the shoes because “they are wide and have a supportive, but still cushioned footbed.”
The brand says they provide “pillow-like comfort,” thanks to their contoured footbed which is designed with arch support. The best part? They are machine-washable.
Best clogs, according to podiatrists
Dansko Professional Clog
- Padded instep
- Roomy toe box
- Some say footbed is hard
Colors: 21 | Sizes: 4.5-13 | Available in wide sizes?: Yes
"Dansko is well-regarded for its supportive clogs, particularly the Professional model, which features a contoured footbed and excellent arch support," Fuchs says. "They are also slip-resistant and durable."
One nurse previously told us that she swears by the clogs to help her get through long shifts. “I’ve worn them ever since I started working as an RN and now as a CRNA. My feet don’t get sore or tired, even after a busy 12-hour day!” she said.
And she's not the only professional who loves the style. Shop TODAY's own editor Kelly Vaughan is also a fan. "When I worked as a cook in a restaurant, these were the only shoes that I wore to help me get through 12+ hour days. They're perfectly snug and super supportive, plus the nonslip sole helped prevent me from slipping on occasionally wet and messy kitchen floors. I love the patent leather for a slightly more feminine look, which elevated my standard cook's uniform."
Dansko Merrin Clogs
- Great quality
- Super comfortable
- Can scuff easily
Colors: 9 | Sizes: 5.5-12 | Available in wide sizes?: No
These clogs feature a comfortable footbed and are made from soft leather, which is why Parthasarathy says that they "are my go-to when I do not want to wear my sneakers to work."
Overall, she shares that she's a fan of the Dansko brand as a whole and says that she exclusively wears the brand's clogs in the operating room, where she's typically standing all day. "[I] notice a big difference in the reduction of foot pain and fatigue at the end of the day compared to sneakers."
She adds, "I have yet to find a brick-and-mortar store that does justice to all of the different styles of shoes that you can find on the Dankso website. They do not just make clogs, they are my go-to for booties, wedges, flats and mules. They also provide free shipping and online exchange. Many Dansko products carry the APMA Seal of Acceptance, which certifies that they are beneficial in promoting foot health."
Birkenstock Boston Clogs
- Cushioned footbed
- Flexible and lightweight sole
- Some say they are small/narrow
Colors: 6 | Sizes: 4-12.5 | Available in wide sizes?: Yes
Fuchs also recommends Birkenstock's popular Boston clogs. She shares that the shoes have a cork footbed with arch support that conforms to your feet over time. "The clogs are also known for their comfort and durability."
“I’ve worn these everywhere from the beach, to airplanes to running errands and they never disappoint," shares production coordinator Camryn Privette. "I love how you can just slide them on and off with minimal effort and are so comfortable. Past Birkenstocks have lasted me for quite literally 10+ years and I’m sure these will too. The footbed seems to only get more comfortable with time too, which is a plus. Big fan, obviously!"
Best clogs, according to editors
Crocs Classic Clogs
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Some say sizing is a struggle
Colors: 41 | Sizes: 6-12 | Available in wide sizes?: Yes
"I was very, very anti-Crocs until someone gifted me a pair a few years ago as a joke," says associate editor Kamari Stewart. "I now absolutely love them. I throw them on for everything, from running errands to wearing them after a run or the gym. They’re much more comfy than I ever wanted to admit and are super easy to slip on and off."
Crocs Mellow Recovery Clog
- Comfortable
- Simple design
- Runs a bit big
- Not very breathable
Colors: 3 | Sizes: 6-12 | Available in wide sizes?: No
These Crocs clogs are my go-to house shoes. While they may not be the cutest, they're ultra-comfortable. And there's nothing I love more than getting home at the end of the day and taking off my shoes to slip these on. Each step feels cushioned and it's the closest I've come to experiencing that "walking on clouds" feeling.
I particularly love slipping my tired feet into them after a long run. When I've logged 10+ miles, my hardwood floors can feel like they're exacerbating any foot soreness I might be feeling. But putting these on keeps that pain to a minimum.
Gardenheir French Garden Clogs
- Comfortable
- Range of sizes
- Size down for best fit
Colors: 2 | Sizes: 4-13.5 | Available in wide sizes?: No
Social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo bought these clogs in the spring after seeing multiple people wearing them around her neighborhood. "They are made from hemp and are really moveable so they are comfortable. You can garden in them, walk in the rain in them, or wear them with some jeans with nicer outfit. I find myself always grabbing these for comfort and style."
Birkenstocks Super Birki
- Non-slip sole
- Supportive
- Some complain about longevity
Colors: 10 | Sizes: 4.5-12.5 | Available in wide sizes?: No
These clogs from Birkenstocks were designed to withstand the stress that comes from jobs in restaurants or hospitality industries, where you might be on your feet all day. And as a former restaurant worker, Vaughan can speak to their comfort and durability.
During her time in a restaurant, she shares that "this under $100 clog was beloved by the chefs and fellow line cooks." She adds, "Wearing a supportive, non-slip shoe was necessary for the nature of the work — especially one that you can wear for 12+ hours in a hot kitchen. These shoes were more than up for the task. Chef-approved!"
Dansko Sonja
- True to size
- Stable construction
- Material may make feet sweat
Colors: 3 | Sizes: 5.5-12 | Available in wide sizes?: No
Senior editor Jess Bender first brought out these colorful clogs for Pride weekend in New York City but found that they're also great for everyday wear.
"I paired these translucent purple clogs with my Grimace-themed bucket hat and belt bag and took on the city streets in a surprising amount of comfort thanks to the roomy toebox and cushy contoured midsole that kept my arches happy after several hours on my feet. Nowadays I wear these in less vivid scenarios like walks to my local farmers market and around the parks near my apartment, but they still earn me tons of compliments with the local moms I come across during my travels."
Ugg Women’s Goldenstar Clog
- Slip-on style
- Contoured footbed
- Run small
Colors: 7 | Sizes: 5-12 | Available in wide sizes?: No
Yes, Ugg makes clogs too! And associate editor Shannon Garlin swears by these trendy clogs from the brand. She shares that they're perfect "when you just need something casual to easily slip on, whether it's for running errands or taking out the garbage." She adds, "They're also the first pair I own that don't have the sherpa lining but they're just as cozy, without being too warm!"
SeaVees Tiburon Trekker
- Anatomical ridge
- Water-resistant
- Sometimes slide off feet
Colors: 3 | Sizes: 5-11 | Available in wide sizes?: No
These clogs are my ultimate "neighborhood" shoes. I slip them on when I'm running down to check my mail, walking to the nearby grocery store, going to the laundromat and running errands near my apartment. I love that they let me feel comfortable and casual enough that they pair well with my athleisure but still look stylish, too. But they're not just for days off, I've worn them for hangs with friends and even to the office, and I've always gotten compliments.
How we chose
To select the best and most comfortable clogs for this list, we consulted two podiatrists to hear about their top picks. We also polled our editorial staff about some of their favorite pairs and highlighted clogs that have high search interest, according to Google Trends.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time. Learn more about Shop TODAY.
Meet our experts
- Dr. Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, is a podiatrist in Silver Spring, Maryland. She is an American Podiatric Medical Association Spokesperson and serves on the board of directors of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. She has previously spoken with Shop TODAY about the best Brooks sneakers and the best orthopedic shoes.
- Dr. Suzanne C. Fuchs, DPM, is the founder of Luxe Podiatry in Jupiter, Florida. She is a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon and a sports medicine specialist.
