Clogs

Clogs were, and in some regions still are, widely worn by workers as protective clothing in factories, mines, and farms. Traditionally, clogs were made out of willow or poplar wood. They are associated with the Netherlands as part of the image of Holland marketed to tourists, where they are seen as a form of national dress. Because of this, Dutch people are sometimes called "cloggies," that is, clog-wearers. In Dutch, clogs are known as klompen. Clogs are available in many tourist shops. A form of tap dancing using clogs is called clogging. Clogs are similar to tap shoes, but the taps are free to click against each other, producing a different sound than tap shoes.

Modern Clogs

A clog is simply a type of shoe or sandal. Nowadays, clogs refer to comfortable slip-on shoes. They are often made out of leather, but some clogs keep the bottom part out of wood. Some fashionable lines have been developed out of what began as a line of shoes marketed simply because the basic design served as a much healthier support for the foot. In response to consumer demand for more color and style, these clogs are now available in a variety of fashion colors as well as some finishing details that add style without detracting from the fit. All-rubber clogs have become popular for garden, lawn, and yard work because they can be easily rinsed clean and allowed to air-dry. These, too, are available in many colors.

Happy Feet

Wearing clogs is considered healthy for the feet. Clogs have been worn in Europe for years by almost anyone who works on their feet. Factory workers, medical personnel and mechanics all wear clogs. The firm support helps the feet and can help with back strain from hours of standing. Clogs do not compress like standard shoes; the support you receive at the beginning of the day is that which you enjoy at the end. Americans, especially those in the medical field, are increasingly discovering the health benefits of wearing clogs for days spent on your feet.

By Fiona Young

Clogs

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