Clarks Wallabee vs Desert Boot: Which to Buy in Canada (2026)

Torn between the Clarks Wallabee and the Desert Boot? The short answer: the Wallabee is the soft, rounded moccasin on a crepe sole — casual, roomy and unmistakable — while the Desert Boot is the cleaner, slightly dressier two-eyelet chukka. Both are Clarks Originals heritage, both sit on crepe, and both are in stock at Gallery Streetwear in Kelowna, BC. Here's how to choose.

Quick answer

• Want casual, iconic, roomy? Go Wallabee.
• Want cleaner and more versatile with trousers? Go Desert Boot.
• Want the Wallabee look, lower and lighter? Try the Meare Walla.

The Wallabee

The Wallabee is Clarks' most recognisable shoe — a soft, moccasin-construction suede shoe on a plush crepe sole. It's casual, roomy and full of character, and it's been a streetwear and hip-hop staple for decades. It comes in the classic Maple suede, a versatile Black suede, a women's Maple, and even a Tiger print. If you want a lower, lighter take on the same look, the Meare Walla is a slimmed-down Wallabee-style shoe.

The Desert Boot

The Desert Boot is the cleaner sibling — a two-eyelet suede chukka on a crepe sole, first made in 1950 and still one of the most versatile boots you can own. It dresses up with trousers better than the Wallabee and reads a little sharper. This 75th Anniversary Loden Green is a standout colourway.

Fit and sizing (this part matters)

Both Clarks Originals run a bit large and are offered in whole (UK) sizes:

• Wallabee: runs large and roomy. If you're a half size, size down to the nearest whole size. If you're a whole size, most people stay put but some size down one.
• Desert Boot: also runs large; size down to the nearest whole size if you're between.
• Crepe sole: soft and cushioned but not grippy in the wet — great for everyday, less so for slick surfaces.
• Suede care: use a suede protector spray from day one; it keeps the Maple and Loden colours looking right.

See our full footwear size guide, or just ask us before ordering.

Where to buy Clarks Originals in Canada

Gallery Streetwear carries Clarks Originals at 588 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC (V1Y 6P2). Browse the full Clarks Originals collection or see all the brands we carry. We ship from Kelowna in 1–3 business days with free shipping on Canadian orders over $150 and in-store pickup available.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Clarks Wallabee and Desert Boot?
The Wallabee is a soft, roomy moccasin-construction suede shoe on a crepe sole — casual and iconic. The Desert Boot is a cleaner two-eyelet suede chukka, also on crepe, that dresses up more easily. Both are Clarks Originals heritage styles.

Do Clarks Wallabees run true to size?
Wallabees run large and come in whole UK sizes. If you're a half size, size down to the nearest whole size; if you're a whole size, most people stay put, though some size down one for a snugger fit.

Where can I buy Clarks Wallabees and Desert Boots in Canada?
Gallery Streetwear stocks Clarks Originals — Wallabee and Desert Boot — in store at 588 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC, and online at gallerystreetwear.ca, shipping across Canada with free shipping over $150.

Are Clarks crepe soles good for everyday wear?
Yes for everyday comfort — the crepe sole is soft and cushioned. It's less grippy on wet or slick surfaces, so they're better as an everyday shoe than a rainy-day one.