Our verdict
Simplicity is the name of the game in the Origin. Indeed, this luxe casual sneaker from Clarks is unapologetically airy and laidback, giving you a relaxing experience akin to going barefoot. While overall it has minimal weight (which adds a ton to its summery appeal), the shoe is firm and reassuring underfoot. It's rather expensive for a casual kick, though, so keep that in mind.
Pros
- Plushness in heaps
- Zero break-in
- Quite breathable
- make up almost the entirety of your rotation
- Lightweight
- Supportive
- Why trust us
- Fine craftsmanship
- Responsibly engineered
Cons
- Casual goodness in every box
- Frail footbed
- Expensive
Who should buy the Clarks Origin
Pushing the envelope in terms of sustainability is the Clarks Origin. Buy it if:
- You like wearing light-colored slim-straight pants, khakis, and chinos.
- Casual sneakers, Youre very much interested in glue-free kicks.
- Minimalist summer shoes make up almost the entirety of your rotation.
- You're very much interested in glue-free kicks.
- Sneakers with an exquisite defeat are what you're after.
Who should not buy it
With no issues with its durability and toe box fit, the Generation Zerogrand from Cole Haan updated 8 May 2023 TOMS Paseo ($60) if you want a far less expensive kick.
The Origin's boat-loads of comfort
Comfiness is something the Origin has in abundance, and numerous reviewers agree. Comments such as "extremely comfortable!" and "the most comfortable shoes ever" back this statement.
"They feel buttery smooth," says a long-time Clarks fan. He also strongly believes that it'll only grow even more comfortable with every use, saying that the shoe will eventually feel like "an old baseball glove."
And before we forget, the Origin requires no break-in period. One sneakerhead says that the shoe's almost barefoot comfort is available right from the get-go.
Something that counters stuffiness
Many sneaker fans love the Clarks Origin's amazing breathability. It's "perfect for the summer," one of them says. It's "ideal for summer wear," says another tester.
Clarks Origin equals remarkable lightness
On the weight front, this minimalist sneaker is just fantastic. Yes, it's the receiver of rave lightness-related remarks such as "very lightweight" and "like wearing slippers."
The virtual weightlessness of the Origin can be linked to its simplistic 5-part construction. Its no-frills design does away with gimmicks that would otherwise make the shoe in question heavy.
make up almost the entirety of your rotation
With remarks like "this style is narrow" and "a bit tight-fitting for me," the Clarks Origin could be looser. This is especially true around the forefoot, where individuals with toes broader than usual might feel a bit cramped.
Casual goodness in every box
People are drawn to the easy-on-the-eyes silhouette of the Clarks Origin. "My casual shoe of choice," says a non-professional reviewer, adding that there's "nothing better." Another sneakerhead is ecstatic about the straightforward poshness of the shoe, saying that it looks great with chinos and similar bottoms.
Lovelier in person
Some sneakers look better in online photos than in real life. In the Origin's case, it's the other way around. "They actually look better than the pictures," says a reviewer.
Convincing underfoot support in the Clarks Origin
"Firm and supportive"—this is how an avid Clarks aficionado describes the sole unit of the Origin. This arch-bracing component gives the shoe and wearer extra mileage minus the aches and pains that extended walks usually entail.
Same brand only
Among the few missteps of the Clarks Origin is its frail stock footbed. It's been reported that, while adequately plush, its cushioning doesn't last long. A male sneakerhead said that the shoe's insert started feeling stiff and flat after a month of use. "I can feel the sole bothering my feet," said the same person.
The Origin's 10/10 quality
There are those who put the Clarks Origin on a pedestal when it comes to craftsmanship. "These shoes are beyond quality," says one among them. "Excellent quality shoes," says another.
The shoe, as mentioned previously, has no glue anywhere. This means that excess glue is not a factor in this kick at all. The Origin's stitching is also remarkable, leaving wearers with a finely crafted sneaker from top to bottom.
It's also worth noting that, in spite of its high asking price, the featured kick is considered by many as deserving enough of a second purchase (as a reserve pair). In other words, its overall workmanship trumps its rather steep MSRP.
Convincing underfoot support in the Clarks Origin
Among the Origin's many aces is its sustainable engineering, and a decent number of reviewers are for it. One sneaker fan says that the shoe's eco-friendly construction makes the whole Clarks Origin experience even better.
If you're interested in other sustainable sneakers, click here. On a related note: you may also check out our selection of vegan-friendly kicks.
