Moccasins are real classics - comfortable, versatile and stylish. They originate from the indigenous peoples of North America and are known for their soft, flexible soles with small studs, which offer a very special feel when walking.

Our moccasins from Castellano are made in Madrid - and still by hand. You notice this immediately: in the quality, the workmanship and the comfort. Castellano stands for genuine craftsmanship and relies on traditional methods and high-quality materials.

Whether worn casually with jeans or smartly with suit trousers - these shoes can do it all and always look good. In our range, you'll find different models to suit every taste:

Penny LoaferWith the typical strap over the instep, often with a small slit - traditionally a coin fits in there, hence the name.

Classic moccasinsSimple and elegant, with a discreet loop - perfect for those who prefer a more understated look.

Whether in black or brown - both versions are stylish companions for many occasions.

Come by the BOOSTER store or shop online at booster.ch - We look forward to seeing you!

Clarks' Wallabee shoes are more than just a fashion accessory; they are a piece of cultural history that has made a remarkable journey from England to Jamaica. This article explores the origins of Wallabee shoes, their spread in Jamaica and their profound significance in Jamaican society and music scene.

Origins of the Wallabee shoes

The story of Clarks begins in 1825 in Somerset, England, when brothers James and Cyrus Clark founded a sheepskin rug company. To avoid wasting material, they began to make shoes from the scraps. This step marked the beginning of Clarks as a shoe manufacturer.

The Wallabee shoes were introduced by Clarks in 1967. Based on the design of the German shoe manufacturer Sioux and their "Grashopper" model, Clarks acquired the licence to produce a similar shoe model. The Wallabees are characterised by their simple moccasin design, characteristic crepe sole and suede or nubuck leather upper. They offered a comfortable and stylish alternative to the formal shoes popular at the time.

Popularity in Jamaica

The connection between Clarks and Jamaica dates back to the 1920s, when Clarks shoes first became available in the Caribbean. In the 1940s, they were sold in luxury department stores such as Nathans and Issas on King Street in Kingston. Due to their British heritage, Clarks shoes were considered a status symbol and were coveted but unaffordable items for many.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the popularity of Clarks shoes increased significantly in Jamaica, especially with the introduction of the Desert Boots. These shoes were adopted by the youth culture and the so-called "Rude Boys" who wore them as part of their signature style. The Rude Boys were young men from urban areas who stood out for their rebellious style and music.

Significance in music and youth culture

In the 1960s, Clark's shoes, especially the Wallabee models, became the footwear of choice for nights out in dance halls. Well-known ska and reggae musicians wore them on stage and on album covers, which further increased their popularity. Clark's shoes became an expression of youth culture and symbolised individuality and belonging.

The shoes also found their way into the music itself. Many Jamaican artists mentioned Clarks in their songs, making the shoes a cultural phenomenon. Examples include songs such as "Clarks Booty" by Little John, "Lean Boot" by Richie Davis, "CB 200" by Dillinger and "Clarks" by Vybz Kartel and Popcaan from 2010, the latter of which led to a resurgence in demand for Clarks shoes in Jamaica and emphasised their continued importance in the culture.

Social and cultural significance

In Jamaica, Clark's shoes are more than just fashion items; they are a symbol of identity, quality and social status. They represent a part of Jamaican culture that is closely linked to the country's history and its connection to the United Kingdom.

In the 1970s, the then Prime Minister Michael Manley introduced a ban on the import of foreign shoes, which restricted access to Clark's shoes. This led to creative methods being developed to continue bringing the shoes into the country. Travellers smuggled them in suitcases or even in coffins shipped from Miami. Local traders specialised in the illegal import and sale of the shoes, and imitations were created to meet the high demand.

From the street to politics

The importance of Clarks shoes in Jamaica has also reached political dimensions over the years. During his election campaign in 2020, Prime Minister Andrew Holness wore Clarks shoes and showcased them at public appearances. This was seen as an attempt to connect with the population and recognise the cultural significance of the shoes.

Another notable event was Prince Harry's visit to Jamaica. During his trip, he wore a pair of Clarks blue desert boots, which was interpreted as a sign of respect for Jamaican culture. This event emphasised the international recognition of the special relationship between Clarks and Jamaica.

Summary

Clarks Wallabee shoes are more than just shoes; they are a symbol of cultural identity and expression in Jamaica. Their journey from a British shoe model to an integral part of Jamaican culture demonstrates how profoundly fashion can transcend borders and unite communities. The enduring relevance of Wallabee shoes emphasises their unique place in the history of Clarks and Jamaica.

Our selection of Wallabees

We have also had Wallabees in our range for ages and we also have a few of them in our online shop!

More Wallabees

For the complete selection, including advice, it's best to come to our shop in Niederdorf. We have an even larger selection of wallabees there.

Summer is over and slowly but surely the weather is turning back to autumn with a good dose of rain and mud. And now you realise that all you have left is an old pair of trainers lying around that will force you to walk around with wet feet for the rest of the day after one misstep in a puddle. But that doesn't have to be the case, because we have our autumn/winter collection ready for exactly this kind of weather, so you no longer have to freeze on your toes.

Whether it's a practical yet elegant Chelsea boot, a classic lace-up boot or even a pair of lined shoes - you're sure to find what you're looking for here.

Chelsea boots

Zip, zip, in and out - quickly and efficiently, but still in style, whatever the weather. You can't go wrong with a pair of Chelsea boots, because style-conscious people have been wearing them for decades.

More Chelsea boots

Lace-up boots

For more support and even more warmth, a lace-up boot is the clear choice. Whether it's a durable Solovair 8-Eye, an elegant lace-up boot or even a lined version - you'll find all kinds of sturdy lace-up boots here.

More lace-up boots

Half-high shoes

But it doesn't always have to be a high shoe. We have the following shoes on offer for the transitional period and days with better weather.

More Wallabees

Creeper

And last but not least, our famous creepers also deserve a brief mention, as there are also versions that cover the ankle and are therefore very suitable for the coming months.

More Creeper

For the complete selection, including advice, it's best to come to our shop in Niederdorf. There we have a much larger selection of boots and shoes.

What are creepers?

Creepers, also known as brothel creepers, are flat leather shoes with thick, soft crepe soles that are often up to 5 centimetres thick and have vertical grooves. These shoes, usually laced, are often made of suede. Nowadays, however, the shoe is also available in smooth leather and a wide variety of colours and designs. Their design and texture make them a striking fashion item that is particularly popular in subcultures and is always on trend.

History

Picture: George Cox Footwear

The origins of creeper shoes go back to the time after the Second World War, when British soldiers returned to London from North Africa. There they wore suede boots with thick rubber soles made by Egyptian and Burmese shoemakers. Called "Brothel Creepers" at the time, the shoes found their way into civilian life thanks to the veterans and were allegedly often spotted in the red light district of Soho, hence the name.

In 1949, the company George Cox Footwear the first fashionable version of the creepers was launched on the market, which became known as the "Hamilton". These shoes were manufactured in George Cox's factory in Wellingborough and quickly became popular.

Teddy boys and punks

In the 1950s, creepers were particularly popular with the Teddy Boys, a British youth culture. This culture was characterised by flamboyant clothing and a penchant for rock 'n' roll. Creepers became an integral part of their look, which combined elegant Edwardian fashion with rebellious elements.

In the 1970s, Creepers experienced a rebirth through the influence of Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwoodwhich she sells in her London shop "Let it Rock" were sold. The shoes quickly became an important element of the emerging punk scene, worn by bands such as the Sex Pistols.

Creepers became a key element of the punk rock look. As punk evolved into new wave and post-punk, new styles gained popularity such as less extreme rockabilly styles worn by artists like Elvis Costello, Squeeze and Madness.

"Not just the UK, but throughout the world, where pioneers such as Blue Moon in Germany, John Fluevog in Canada, Let it Rock in the USA, Figgins in Australia, Booster in Switzerland and American Import Export in Italy were introducing British subculture to their respective markets."

Quote from the Website of George Cox

 

Creeper in the modern age

In the 1990s, creepers became popular again thanks to celebrity wearers such as the Spice Girls and Gwen Stefani. In the 2010s to 2020s, they experienced another renaissance, worn by artists and celebrities such as Rihanna, The Weeknd, Rita Ora, Katy Perry and Miley Cyrus.

In fact, Rihanna was so inspired by the Creeper that she launched a joint shoe collection with Puma in 2015 called Puma Creeper which was honoured as shoe of the year in 2016.

Today, creepers are not only an integral part of the fashion world, but also a symbol of style and rebellion. They are appreciated by various subcultures and fashion-conscious individuals and can be seen both on the street and on the catwalks. Brands such as George Cox and Steelgrounds continue to set the standard in the production of these iconic shoes.

Picture: George Cox Footwear

Buy Creeper

Irene and Pierre Montandon, the Founder of Boosterwere probably the first to import and sell the iconic shoe in Switzerland. To this day, the Creeper is an integral part of our range, which has continued to enjoy great popularity over the years. Including, of course, the Creeper from George Coxwhich are still "Made in England" today, but also less expensive models from Steelgrounds or T.U.K Footwear.

Click here for our Creeper range!

Vintage dresses

Get your exclusive second-hand vintage piece to mix and match, as an accessory or as a collector's item. According to the motto renew and reduce: Come by now and secure selected vintage pieces - new in the Booster Secondhand Vintage Corner at our Niederdorf store in Zurich!

Secondhand clothes

You can now find a wide range of second-hand clothes on the upper floor among our selection of shoes. Whether it's an 80's ski suit, snakeskin print flare trousers or simply a cool pair of sunglasses. Let us surprise you. We have fair prices and a constantly changing selection, so it's best to come by regularly to get hold of the best pieces