Stepping Through Time: Clarks Shoes in the Caribbean, A Jamaican Journey

Footwear has always been an integral part of fashion and functionality, and one brand that has left an indelible mark on the Caribbean, especially in Jamaica, is Clarks. This iconic shoemaker has a rich history that intertwines with the vibrant culture and dynamic landscape of the Caribbean islands. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating journey of Clarks Shoes in the Caribbean, with a special focus on its impact and popularity in Jamaica.

It All Began in 1825

There aren’t many companies that can tout being in business for 200 years! It’s even more surprising as designing shoes is something the founders stumbled upon by accident. In 1825, brothers James and Cyrus Clark founded a sheepskin rug business in Somerset, England. To minimize waste, they began making shoes with the offcuts from the rugs. The shoes took off, and the brothers abandoned their rug business.

Clark shoes became synonymous with comfort, quality, and innovative design. The brand grew in popularity throughout Europe, eventually making its way overseas to the Caribbean in the 1920s. Between the 1950s and 1960s, the demand for their shoes (particularly the leather desert boot) skyrocketed on the islands and remains strong today. Arguably, their sandal collections are thanks to their island popularity.

A Jamaican Status Symbol

In the 1940s, Nathans and Issas were two luxury department stores on King Street in Kingston, and the only place to purchase Clarks shoes in Jamaica. Initially, the brand was revered because they were a British import. Wearing a pair was considered prestigious. Due to their cost, Clark’s leather shoes were highly coveted but inaccessible for most. The arrival of their desert boots was the tipping point.

These iconic boots became a standard part of the unofficial uniform of ska and reggae musicians, as well as the ‘Rudeboys’. Rudeboys were the rebels of their generation. Rudeboys rejected traditional norms in every way. Mixing the otherwise luxe boot into their wardrobe was the perfect contrast to their street style. The rest of their unofficial uniform included a string vest and a pork pie or rasta cap. Just like today, argyle socks (or at the very least tall dress socks) were a must.

Although an investment for the young men who popularized the boot on the island, the timeless quality ensured years of wear. 

These Boots Are Made For Dancing

By the 1960s, Clarks shoes in Jamaica were the footwear of choice for a night out in dance halls. Famous ska and reggae musicians rocked streetwear with their desert boots, even wearing them on album covers.

The Clarks Wallabee, in particular, became an iconic shoe in Jamaica. Its distinctive moccasin construction and comfortable crepe sole made it a favorite among Jamaicans. The Wallabee quickly became associated with Jamaican style, worn by people from all walks of life, from reggae musicians to everyday citizens.

As Clark’s shoes became woven into the fabric of Jamaican culture, they also found a prominent place in the island's music scene. Reggae and dancehall artists frequently referenced Clarks in their lyrics, elevating the brand to a symbol of style and status. Songs like Vybz Kartel's "Clarks" and Popcaan's "Unruly Clarks" celebrated the footwear, turning it into a cultural phenomenon.

Clarks is mentioned by name in the lyrics of many island artists spanning the ‘60s to today, including Clarks Booty by Little John, Lean Boot by Richie Davis, Clarks Booty Skank by Trinity, CB 200 by Dillinger, Dangerous Shoes by Laurel & Hardy, Clarks Booty Style by Ranking Joe, Trash and Ready by Supercat, and Wa-Do-Dem by Eek-A-Mouse.

The love for Clarks shoes in Jamaica goes beyond mere fashion; it's a cultural phenomenon that has endured for decades. The shoes are often associated with celebrations, events, and rituals, becoming an integral part of the Jamaican identity.

A Ban Can’t Stop Style

As Caribbeans began immigrating around the world, Clarks was a brand they instantly felt a connection to. Even if their style changed otherwise, they could access the comfort, quality, and style of the shoes they’d been wearing since their youth.

Island immigrants living abroad would ship unique styles to their families back home and pack them in their suitcases when returning to visit. Those who lived in the UK would travel to Street (the town where Clarks was founded) to shop the expansive selection found only in the factory stores. Traveling to the Street to shop was often referred to as a ‘pilgrimage’. Yes, a pilgrimage! That’s how serious the love and respect for Clarks was then—and now! 

It shocked the nation when Clark shoes in Jamaica were banned from sale in 1972. This is when Prime Minister Michael Manely eliminated the import of all foreign footwear. At the time, hundreds of pairs of Clarks were sold per week on the island. With inflation, that amounts to almost $1 million annually in today’s dollar. The youth took the ban as an attempt at censorship, targeting both street style and music.  

Not to be deterred from artistic expression, Jamaicans found a workaround. From buying from nearby islands to traveling to the states to buy, and sneaking shoes into the country in coffins shipped from Miami.

Clarks For The Entire Family

While Clarks Originals (including the desert boot that started it all) is still going strong today, the popularity in the islands continues to influence the brand’s collections. Leather boots, loafers, and dress shoes remain staples—but their sandals and casual shoes are plentiful.

Over the years, the brand has launched several pairs of Jamaican and island flag-colored shoes. They’ve also partnered with island designers to create signature collections. These collections are a win-win. They elevate underrepresented designers while giving islanders an even greater sense of pride when they slide their Clarks on. And yes, you can find high-quality and vibrant options for the entire family.

Shaping Island History and Politics

Shoes aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when we think of history or politics, other than the general fashion of the period. But wearing Clark’s shoes in Jamaica was instrumental in the mission of artistic freedom of expression. Today, when you search online for photos of Caribbean locals of every age, gender, and socioeconomic status—you’re sure to find Clarks. Even in the garrison community, Jamaica’s most underserved area.

Understanding the significance of the brand, Prime Minister Andrew Holness wore Clarks during his campaign—and would raise a pair of Clarks in pride during speeches and public appearances.

Al Fingers even published a revered book Clarks in Jamaica, with an in-depth history in stunning photos.

Clarks Shoes in Jamaica and The Caribbean

This winding story proves that you never know where the journey will take you. The history of Clarks Shoes in the Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica, is a tale of resilience, cultural integration, and timeless style. From its humble beginnings in England to becoming a symbol of Jamaican identity, Clarks has left an indelible imprint on the Caribbean fashion landscape. The brand's ability to adapt to changing times while staying true to its core values has allowed it to maintain its popularity in Jamaica and beyond, proving that some stories are truly made to last – just like a pair of Clarks shoes.