Clarks Nature 5 Lo Dark Brown Leather 14 D (M) Review
The Clarks Nature 5 Lo Dark Brown Leather loafers are designed with a unique blend of classic styling and modern advancements. Crafted from premium nubuck leather, these loafers offer not just an appealing aesthetic, but also a range of features aimed at improving your natural movement while ensuring all-day comfort.
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Features
- Premium nubuck leather upper.
- Removable footbed with Active Air underfoot pods for breathable cushioning.
- High-rebound recycled-content EVA midsole that absorbs shock.
- Flexible side-stitched construction for enhanced flexibility.
- Classic round toe silhouette with lace-up closure.
- Durable rubber outsole for maximum grip.
Pros
- Excellent comfort thanks to the removable footbed and air-circulating technology.
- Stylish design suitable for casual outings or semi-formal occasions.
- Durable build ensures longevity and reliable performance.
- Lightweight feel despite the robust materials used in construction.
Cons
- May take some time to break in for optimal comfort.
- Higher price point compared to other casual loafers.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Product | Material | Footbed | Midsole | Outsole |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clarks Nature 5 Lo | Nubuck Leather | Removable | EVA | Rubber |
| Rockport Men's Classic Loafers | Leather | Non-removable | EVA | Rubber |
| Sperry Top-Sider Authentic Original | Leather | Non-removable | PU | Rubber |
Detailed Review
The Clarks Nature 5 Lo Dark Brown Leather loafers stand out in terms of both comfort and style. The nubuck leather upper feels soft against your skin, while providing a polished look that works well in various settings. The lace-up closure allows you to customize the fit to your liking, which is particularly beneficial if you're transitioning between formal and casual environments.
When it comes to comfort, the removable footbed is a game changer. Equipped with Active Air underfoot pods, this feature not only cushions your feet but also circulates air to keep them feeling fresh throughout the day. If you're someone who spends long hours on your feet, you'll appreciate the high-rebound recycled-content EVA midsole, which effectively absorbs shock during walks or while standing. The flexible side-stitched construction adds another layer of comfort by allowing your foot to move naturally with each step.
On the downside, some users have reported that the loafers may require a bit of breaking in before reaching peak comfort levels. Additionally, while they do offer excellent quality, the price tag might be higher than what you'd pay for comparable loafers from other brands. However, considering their durability and timeless style, many find the investment worthwhile.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional cushioning and support for all-day wear. |
| Style | 8/10 | Classic design that's versatile for different occasions. |
| Durability | 9/10 | Built to last with high-quality materials. |
| Value for Money | 7/10 | Higher price but justified by comfort and quality. |
User Reviews
I sold Clarks shoes in the early 2000's. The Natureveldt was the top of the line. Comfortable straight out of the box. I told my customers these shoes didn't need to be "broken in" and that was always the case. I was really excited to try this new model. I hadn't had a fresh pair of Clarks in 20 years. Out of the box, I was almost immediately disappointed. The upper feels really stiff, and the heel cup in particular is very uncomfortable. I tried breaking it down a little by hand to get the leather more flexible, but that didn't help. It also feels like the heel doesn't hold my foot very well. The padding is certainly supple, but it's no early 2000's Natureveldt. If you're like me, and you long for the Clarks of old, this probably won't scratch that itch. They're not as comfortable out of the box, but they'll get the job done. I'm hoping that the leather will losen up after some wear.
I was looking for casual dress shoes that are not minimalist but do have a wide toe box. These do fit that description. The toe box is pretty close to as wide as my Altra Escalante 3s. However, the toe box does taper a little more quickly, so it isn't quite the same. The main problems are that the insole doesn't have a lot of padding and the heel of the shoe has almost none. Because this is only a four hole lace-up, there isn't really any good way to get a "lock" on your heel, so your foot ends up sliding along the back of the shoe when you walk (or at least it does for me). That friction will lead to blisters and I need these for every day, all day work situations. Too bad. There aren't many wide toe box options and Clark's was really close on this one.
I’ve been wearing the Clark Nature series of shoes for decades. This Nature 5 version is nice looking and fairly comfortable. I like the wide toe box. The updated style is good looking. I after wearing them for a few months, I would say that the leather is decent, but not quite as good as previous versions. It feels slightly stiffer than older pairs. The sole is good, supportive. Perhaps a little stiffer than older versions. Overall I’m satisfied.
Good
I wear wide shoes, but these were a little too wide. My foot would slide in them. I had to return them.
You can’t video inside of a shoe