Clarks Wallabee
Clarks has been a trailblazer in the footwear industry. It has stood out over the years for producing classy, fashionable, high-quality shoes. They have hundreds of shoe designs and models, including men’s shoes, women’s shoes, casual shoes, dress shoes, boots, slip-ons, etc.
Among its most popular shoes is Wallabees. Recently, Clarks introduced the Stinson range of shoes, which are a close look-alike of the Wallabees. However, the resemblance between the two styles has brought a lot of confusion to customers, making it a daunting task to choose one over the other.
This article seeks to demystify Wallabee vs Stinson shoe designs. It compares their features to establish their similarities and differences.
The History of Wallabee vs Stinson
Wallabees are Clarks Originals. They have been in the market since 1967. When Clarks designed them, the brand was keen to develop a shoe design that was fashionable, comfortable, and timeless. For slightly over half a decade, Wallabees have made record sales and continue to be a favorite for both men and women across the globe.
On the other hand, the Stinsons are a recent invention. They entered the market silently as Clarks did not create a massive marketing campaign around them. Many customers discover them when they pick them up or add them to the cart, thinking they are Wallabees only to see a different product name. Like the Wallabees, their design is timeless and of high quality.
So, how do Wallabees differ from Stinsons?
Wallabee Vs Stinson: Features Comparison
Clarks Stinson
Models
There is a wide range of Wallabee and Stinson shoes, and both feature women’s shoes, men’s shoes, slip-ons, and boots. There are about 55 types of Wallabees. For most Wallabee styles, there is a similar Stinson shoe design, but the range of Stinson shoes is narrower.
Material
Upper Material
Shoes in both categories are either made of suede or leather upper. They are available in a wide selection of colors. However, Wallabees tend to lean more on classic colors, while Stinsons are available in classic colors plus more daring colors.
There is a slight difference in the quality of material used for both types of Clarks. Wallabees are seemingly sturdier, while Stinsons feel softer.
Stinsons seem to contour to the shape of your feet, but Wallabees retain their shape. Clarks does not explicitly mention a difference in the materials. Therefore, it is not clear whether there is special treatment for either type of material.
Outsole Material
They also differ in the outsole material. Most Wallabees are made of crepe, while Stinsons are EVA.
Crepe is made of rolled rubber latex sheets and provides a smooth, durable finish. Crepe soles support the natural flexing of the foot. They also offer excellent shock absorption protecting the feet’s tendons and ligaments. For people keen on environmental conservation, Wallabees are the best option as crepe soles are biodegradable.
On the downside, crepe soles are heavier compared to EVA, TPU, or rubber, although you may not notice the difference as the shoes will be about 60-80g heavier depending on size. Since the crepe soles are open-pored, they absorb dust causing the soles to look pale and dirty over time.
On the other hand, EVA soles are waterproof, anti-slip, and tear-resistant. They are lightweight and offer excellent shock absorption. They have a flexible, rubbery feel, but the sole compresses and loses its integrity over time. Unlike crepe soles, they are non-biodegradable and contribute to the landfill problem.
Design
At a glance, Wallabees and Stinsons have similar designs and craftsmanship. However, if you look closely, you will notice some slight differences. For instance, the Wallabees toe shape is square, while the Stinsons are more rounded. As such, Wallabees offer more room for your toes even when you are wearing thick socks.
Also, the two types of shoes differ in the stitching quality. The stitching pattern is the same for similar shoes, but the stitches on Wallabees are more durable than those on Stinson shoes. Unlike Stinsons, the threads used to stitch Wallabee shoes are oiled and waxed, enhancing corrosion and abrasion resistance.
Both types of shoes have the upper part cemented on the sole. As such, it is not possible to re-sole the shoes for any reason.
The shoes are designed for everyday use and should not be worn for super-rugged activities such as hiking, walking long distances, or sporty activities. Although their soles offer excellent cushioning and shock absorption, it is not adequate for the type of impact on the feet ligaments and tendons when doing high impact activities.
Fit
Both Wallabees and Stinsons have true-to-fit sizing. Since most are slip-ons or ankle boots, they do not have a break-in period. If you are between sizes or have wide feet, order the next size up.
The major difference in their fit is that Wallabees boot shafts measure about 4” while Stinson measure 3.75” or slightly lower. Stinsons have a low boot design, which has a lower shaft than a standard shoe.
Quality and Durability
Generally, Wallabees are more durable than Stinsons. Their durability can be credited to the higher quality stitching and crepe soles. With that said, Stinsons still offer great quality.
Note that both types of shoes require careful maintenance to last as intended. Otherwise, they become dingy-looking really fast and lose their style. Clean them regularly and take care of the suede or leather accordingly.
Wallabees Vs. Stinsons: Which are More Expensive?
- An iconic shoe to carry you through this summer and many more, our beloved Wallabee Boot returns in a versatile beeswax hue that works with almost everything in your wardrobe
- Premium beeswax leather upper
- Breathable leather lining
- Part-recycled natural rubber pebble crepe sole
- Includes additional lace for versatile wear
- The heel height is 1.25 inches and the upper material is suede
Wallabees are significantly more expensive. However, the price range differs for different shoes across the two categories. Wallabee shoe prices start at about double the Stinson price.
Therefore, if you are keen on the quality of shoes and you do not mind spending a little more, go for Wallabees. On the other hand, if you want a good pair of Clarks shoes at an affordable price, Stinsons are a decent option. Ultimately, the variance in price pays for itself in the value Wallabee shoes deliver. They are sturdy, comfortable, reliable, and iconic.
Conclusion
Clarks is keen to satisfy its customers’ needs at different price points, as evidenced by its wide range of products. Wallabees cater to customers looking for premium quality shoes. Stinsons mimic the Wallabees but trade-off quality for an affordable price.
