Originally produced in the 1960s, Wallabees are a style that requires no detailed introduction. Recognized by musicians and fashion head-alike, this style has gone through strength to strength, retaining its distinctive qualities, and continues to be styled amongst senior and younger generations alike.
In this article, we show our appreciation for this classic footwear, by offering up some styling alternatives to Wallabees with just about the same timeless design.
Wallabees Style Explained
There are two general styles of Wallabees, both brought into the market in the 1960s: The boot and the shoe. Both styles are instantly recognizable, with clean and simple lines, a moccasin construction, and the brand’s signature crepe sole.
The overall design has remained very much the same since they were initially produced, but they’re currently available in more colorways than ever before, ranging from classic black and bright red to beige, purple, tan, and yellow.
They feature leather and suede designs, meaning there’s a wide variety to choose from. Even though leather styles are usually more waterproof, several brands like Clarks claim that their suede Wallabees are enhanced with water treatment to provide extra protection from the elements.
The West Indies, particularly Jamaica, had a strong bond with Clarks in the 60s, where Wallabees and Desert Boots became associated with reggae and laid-back living. The passion spread to New York in the ’70s, where the style quickly caught on. Throughout the 1990s, hip-hop legends like the Wung-Tang clan championed the Wallabee.
Likewise, they became a favorite of classic British bands including Blur and Oasis. Subsequent to this impressive line-up of fans, in addition to the classic silhouette and excellent comfort, it’s no surprise the style has become so iconic.
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Wallabee Alternatives
Men’s Boys New Wallabee Fashion TAN Brown School Smart Formal LACE Shoes
The Men’s Boys School Smart Formal Lace shoes by SANTINO are an excellent pick for Wallabee alternatives. The shoes are offered in Black/PU, Brown/PU, Black/Suede, Camel/Suede, COFEE/PU, Blue/PU, COFEE/Suede, and Wine/Suede.
These shoes are made with soft real Faux suede leather, enhanced with a stitched detail Lace-up to deliver a perfect fit. Similar to original Clarks Wallabees, these shoes have good gripping long-lasting crepe soles. You’ll also appreciate the fashionable, Wallabee style leather upper and the lining. Overall, the shoe is ideal for any occasion.
Gold Cup Crepe Chukka
For those who like the style but don’t like the “chunk” associated with some Wallabee brands, the Gold Cup Crepe Chukka by Sperry comes with a mid-height with a thinner, less-pronounced sole. Not often accessible, but this brand had olive, gray, and even god-awful two-tone.
The shoes are designed for a relaxed look, featuring luxurious lambskin linings, hand-sewn suede uppers, and conventional leather welt construction that bonds uppers to the outsole.
With the ankle-height boot, you’ll find two gold-plated eyelets and rawhide laces for an agreeable fit. Crepe rubber outsoles come in handy for underfoot cushioning, which is flexible and lightweight for a classic look with modern versatility.
Kickers Boy’s Fragma Lace Black Leather Shoes
They say “music changes but the song remains.”True to their name, Kickers have played their role in music and Youth culture in a remarkably, inimitably British way. Their Fragma Lace Black Leather Shoes are smart and stylish, hardwearing, and functional for sustainable comfort.
They’re branded with metal eyelets and iconic Kickers-colored tabs. The shoes are also enhanced with micro-technology for odor-free performances. The quality leather uppers and cushioned foam footbed provide all-day comfort, while the moccasin toe offers a classic look. Moreover, Kickers footwear runs true to size and offers a generous, comfortable fit, so you don’t need to size up or down.
Men’s Mid-Town Lace Up
You don’t want to give up sneaker comfort, even when you’re lifting your casual-style quotient. With decent lines and classic elegance that never goes out of trend, the Diesel’s Men’s Mid-Town Lace-Up has been designed to add a sleek touch to your jeans and khakis style.
You’ll also find cushioned insoles and bouncy rubber outsoles that get you going without any sort of discomfort. Diesel has long been a great pioneer in casual fashion, recognized for moving ahead and outside the typical trends in the industry.
Men’s Dougie Suede Lace Up Moccasin Shoes
Dougie Suede Lace Up Moccasin Shoes are a casual Wallabee style from Base London. The shoe boasts quality suede uppers, a cuffed leather trim, and a simple dual lace fasten. The soles are flexible, durable, and lightweight, and the Ortholite inner sole is designed to offer max comfort.
The Dougie is an ideal pick for casual outings and you can count on them as your all-time favorite. Thanks to the excellent design and features. Made with suede leather, these durable shoes promise to remain functional for years to come.
The stated Ortholite insole has been included for extra comfort, while the flexible and lightweight rubber outsole comes in handy for reliable grip on almost any surface.
Reasan Strap I, Boys School Shoes
The Reasan Strap I, Boys School Shoes is yet another excellent pick from Kickers. Similar to Clarks Wallabees, this one features a moccasin toe design alongside a flexible-inspired sole unit. The shoe is a favorite pick, particularly for kids who want to toss a sporty twist to their school uniform.
The mesh lining and cushioned foam bed provide all-day support while the padded heel collar gives more comfort. The sporty paneling and textured decorative detail grant this school-friendly style a twist, while the bubble branding at the back in Kickers green and red reinvents an archive classic with a solid pop of color.
The Velcro straps are meant to keep your kid’s feet secure while making the shoes easy to get on and off, especially when you’re in a hurry. Moreover, the moccasin-style fronts and breathable antimicrobial linings keep these shoes smart and outstanding in the classroom.