Summary
It’s quite challenging to find durable clogs that can keep up with tough surroundings yet still have that sleek look that suits more professional settings, so I’m very happy that I found the Birkenstock Profi Birki Clog. At first, I thought it was made of leather because the upper had a pebbled finish that I mostly associated with leather footwear. I’m glad that the structure was made of PU, though, because it made the clog more suitable for demanding settings that I’m constantly exposed to at work. I liked the strong construction because it gave me the confidence to continue walking and working in challenging environments without worrying that my clog would easily deteriorate in the process. This clog delivered a comfortable experience, with the insole showcasing a curved profile to provide strong arch support so foot fatigue was more easily prevented from setting in even with long hours of nonstop use.
I appreciated the nonslip PU outsole that kept me walking steadily on different surfaces, allowing me to focus on the tasks at hand without compromising my safety on tricky ground conditions. The clog had a raised back that I welcomed because it helped keep my foot in a secure position inside, preventing it from sliding out when I was walking at a hurried pace over slick or inclined surfaces. I loved how easily this clog can be cleaned, with the structure that was washable up to a maximum temperature of 80° Celsius making it more convenient to maintain and disinfect without too much time and effort involved. I did have an issue with the extremely loose fit, though, because it negatively affected the clog’s secure fit, which I think can be improved by downsizing. In this article, you’ll get to see a lot more of the clog’s details so you can determine which features are the most beneficial and which ones may need to be improved upon for enhanced performance.
To maintain your steady footing in different work environments, this clog offers all day-support while resisting premature deterioration at the same time.
Performance Analysis
Comfort
As the Birkenstock Profi Birki Clog had a predominantly formal look, I wasn’t expecting much in terms of comfort – but I’m very glad that my initial impression was wrong. The comfortable experience was primarily impacted by the insole that kept the interior nicely padded, preventing my foot from the pain that can be caused by being pressed into hard surfaces for long periods. This clog’s interior may not be as foamy as other footwear I’ve used in the past, but it still worked to cushion my foot against the impact that’s produced by repetitive steps on hard surfaces. I liked this insole’s curved structure because it followed my foot’s natural curve, providing strong arch support so I didn’t experience fallen arches even when I stayed upright for long periods. I liked that the insole can be removed when needed for cleaning and maintenance, and it’s worth noting that the comfort level can be enhanced further by adding another insole on top of the one that’s already in place. The extra insole can increase the cushioned base, providing even more padding to protect the foot against pain when standing or walking on unforgiving surfaces for hours on end. I appreciated the ample space inside the clog, thanks to the tip that had an extended coverage compared to other clogs. The spacious interior allowed my foot to bend and move as it needed so I didn’t feel a great deal of discomfort and painful pinching all around. I was curious about the raised component that was fitted into the heel area, which was quite prominent compared to the other clogs I’ve used before. I eventually got to experience its benefits as this raised portion ensured that my foot stayed in its proper position without chafing painfully against the back of my sole. This raised heel and extended tip worked together to encourage the foot’s natural rolling action, making every step not only comfortable but more efficient as well.
I liked the footbed’s fabric lining because it surrounded my skin with a soothing texture, keeping it safe from blister formation, especially when I’d been walking nonstop for long hours.
I should also mention that this clog isn’t as flexible as rubber clogs, though, so walking can be a bit uncomfortable when the rigidity of the upper delivers a slightly restrictive feeling to every step.
Even the padded insole tends to feel a bit too inflexible, hampering some of the foot’s movements – unlike soft rubber clogs that quickly adapt to every step for maximum mobility. Another quality that helped make this clog highly protective and comfortable was the upper’s water-repellent structure. Without holes at the top, the clog kept my foot comfortably dry by keeping it covered and safe even when liquids and other unwanted elements were accidentally spilled on the clog.
Weight
This clog isn’t overly heavy, but it isn’t as lightweight as other rubber clogs, either. I was right in assuming that it would feel more on the hefty side, as expected from its robust construction featuring the durable PU material. The thick upper and sole had a significant weight that increased the coverage and protective feeling, keeping the foot safe from hazards in the surrounding area while avoiding the excessively heavy sensation that can painfully drag the foot down.
Traction
This clog has a nonslip PU outsole that helped me navigate tricky ground conditions more safely, providing me with the assurance that I wouldn’t easily falter even on very slick or unstable surfaces. I especially liked the strong traction, as it made the clog grip different floor conditions more easily, promoting increased stability for safer walking experiences. The grease- and oil-resistant clog helped maintain my steady footing on varying surfaces even when I needed to walk quickly to get the finished efficiently. The outsole’s ability to resist slipping and deterioration on greasy or oily surfaces makes this clog an ideal choice for busy kitchens and other foodservice settings, where slipping accidents can be avoided by using high-traction footwear.
Fit and Sizing
This clog is definitely not true to size and can feel excessively loose. While this loose fit helps with easier foot entry and exit, I think the overall comfort of using this clog can significantly be increased by going down a size. I welcomed the spaciousness of the clog but I also felt that it was too much, to the point that I felt a bit unstable when walking at a hurried pace. By going down a size, I believe the clog will feel considerably more secure for a safer walking experience. This way, the foot can be secured in place, minimizing the risk of uncontrollable movement inside the clog and preventing it from completely sliding out with vigorous steps.
Waterproofing
The PU material that was used to construct this boot is water-repellent. This quality prevented liquids from easily seeping into the clog, maintaining my foot’s comfortable dryness even when I encountered accidental spills over the course of a hectic day at work. I appreciated the absence of holes on the top portion because this stopped wet elements from easily coming in, such as when water and other liquid substances were unintentionally splashed onto the clog. However, the opened portion at the back of the clog can quickly let wetness in, making it unsuitable for use in areas exposed to extreme wetness. It’s also not ideal for environments where liquids tend to create puddles on the floors, because the wet element can quickly enter through the open back area.
Breathability
The upper made with a solid PU material doesn’t have holes, so unfortunately the air can’t flow freely into the clog – unlike other clogs (such as Crocs) that have ventilation holes built into the upper. The solid construction offers increased protection against liquids and unwanted elements but negatively affected the clog’s breathability. I felt my foot becoming a bit too warm inside the clog when I used it for long hours at a time. Good thing the back opening allowed a bit of air to get in, preventing the interior from turning exceptionally warm, so I was still able to use the clog for a long time without suffering from excessively warm and sweaty feet.
Quality and Durability
I found the Birkenstock Profi Birki Clog’s design impressive because it was sturdy enough to keep up with different work environments’ demands, at the same time maintaining a sleekness that suited professional settings.
The upper’s PU structure looked more like pebbled leather, giving the clog a sleek silhouette that I didn’t have trouble matching with more formal work outfits – which wasn’t the case when I used rubber clogs that looked very casual and informal. The upper didn’t have any accent, showcasing a streamlined look for a discreetly stylish appeal that worked remarkably well when paired with various workwear and even when used with casual clothes. Keeping this clog clean was a breeze because it can easily be washed in temperatures that can reach up to 80° Celsius, making it much easier for me to preserve its well-maintained structure and keep it disinfected at the same time without going through a lot of hassle. The footbed was removable and can be washed to a maximum temperature of 60° Celsius so I didn’t have any trouble maintaining good foot hygiene, with the footbed being so easy to clean that I was able to do so regularly. I liked this removable quality because it meant that I could easily replace the footbed with one that I preferred more, and even allowed me to add another footbed if I wanted to increase the cushioning from underneath. This footbed offered a padded base that supported my foot throughout the day to protect it from feeling the hardness of the different hard surfaces that I walked on.
I loved this curved footbed because it easily conformed to my foot’s natural shape, promoting good alignment while offering enhanced stability to my gait.
This curved structure delivered strong arch support, preventing foot fatigue and extreme pain from setting in as my foot’s arch was supported even with hours of nonstop walking and staying upright. The extended front portion worked to give my toes the space they needed to freely move, stopping the development of foot fatigue, especially when I’d already been on my feet for extended periods. The raised back portion helped secure my foot inside the clog, so I didn’t need to worry about my steps becoming unstable and my foot sliding out completely when I walked quickly over tricky surfaces. I welcomed the water-repellent PU structure that promoted lasting dryness, protecting my foot from becoming thoroughly soaked when I encountered wet elements. The lack of holes on the top also offered another degree of protection for my foot, stopping accidental spills from penetrating the interior to promote comfortable foot dryness for much longer. This clog’s PU outsole offered strong traction that kept me walking comfortably and confidently over different surface conditions. It firmly gripped slick or uneven surfaces, so I didn’t easily lose my balance.
I just have some concerns about this clog’s extremely loose fit, though, as it might cause instability when walking at a hurried pace.
Going for a smaller size may increase comfort and a secure fit, so this should be taken into consideration when choosing this clog. It’s also more expensive than the average rubber clog that’s often used in kitchens, hospitals, and food service settings, so it isn’t recommended for those who want the most affordable option.
Other Versions
The Birkenstock Profi Birki Clog is available in black, brown, and navy. It has a more versatile version called the Super-Birki Clog that’s offered in a wider range of colors.
The Challengers
Crocs Bistro Pro LiteRide Clog
The Crocs Bistro Pro LiteRide Clog features a very lightweight design that can be used for long hours without excessive bulk that can pull the foot down. The closed-toe silhouette offers superior protection from liquid penetration to keep the foot safe against uncomfortable wetness in case of accidental spills. The thicker metatarsal portion delivers increased protection against wetness as well as abrasive materials, ensuring that the foot won’t easily be harmed by these hazards that can be encountered in different work environments. The revolutionary LiteRide foam insole supports the foot with superb softness, promoting a remarkably comfortable experience that doesn’t compromise reliable support underfoot. This component allows you to walk pain-free for longer while also enjoying a stable walking experience as the resilient material does its magic all day long. The back strap enables you to adjust the fit according to your preference for enhanced stability while walking. The exclusive Crocs Lock outsole delivers outstanding traction, helping you maintain your steady footing on slippery or inclined surfaces. However, this clog doesn’t have a breathable structure due to the absence of ventilation holes, so it tends to heat up after hours of continuous use.
Shoes for Crews Radium Clog
The Shoes for Crews Radium Clog is built with a water-resistant upper made with EVA and rubber to keep liquids from entering, promoting longer-lasting foot dryness in different surroundings. The combination of these materials results in a lightweight profile that doesn’t weigh the foot down, making walking comfortable to manage for longer. The sides feature ventilation holes that encourage more air to pass through, maintaining a breathable interior that offers a fresh and cool feeling even when the clog is used for extended periods in hot conditions. The thickly padded insole provides all-day cushioning to keep the foot protected against the pain of walking on hard surfaces. The padded collar keeps the skin safe to prevent blister formation as it stops painful friction with nonstop walking and other foot movements throughout the day. The proprietary TripGuard design promotes increased movement of liquids around the clog in slippery settings, preventing tripping for a much safer walking experience. The SpillGuard membrane forms a protective barrier around the foot for superior safety against hot liquids. The slip-resistant outsole helps maintain your balance on challenging ground conditions for enhanced safety in the workplace. This clog runs a bit large, though, so going for a smaller size may result in a more secure fit.
Keen PTC Slip-On II Shoe
The Keen PTC Slip-On II Shoe is constructed with water-resistant leather that stops water and other liquids from entering, helping maintain a comfortably dry feeling for longer when you’re working in wet areas. The exclusive KEEN.CUSH technology uses cork, memory foam, and recycled PU to deliver remarkable comfort underfoot. The clog’s platform conforms to the foot’s shape for an almost personalized level of cushioning to ward off the pain of walking on unyielding surfaces. This footbed is removable, making it much easier for you to maintain proper foot hygiene and the component’s cleanliness in the most convenient way. The elastic panels on the sides of the shoe make it easier for the foot to slide in without discomfort, enabling different foot shapes to enjoy this shoe’s benefits. The streamlined design gives off a sleek vibe and makes this clog ideal for professional settings. The non-marking outsole is oil- and slip-resistant so it’s safer to walk on challenging ground conditions without compromising your stable gait. This shoe isn’t built with ventilation holes, though, so it can feel overly warm when used in hot environments for long hours at a time.
Bogs Sauvie Clog
The Bogs Sauvie Clog Solid showcases a waterproof construction that prevents water and other liquids from entering, keeping the foot dry and comfortable in wet environments. The cushioned footbed is enhanced with DuraFresh technology that works nonstop to prevent unwanted smells from developing, promoting a fresh-smelling interior that can be enjoyed for a lot longer. The seamless construction keeps the foot protected against the elements and at the same time ensures a more comfortable experience since there aren’t any seams or stitches that can dig painfully into the skin with every foot movement. The midsole uses rebound technology to bring back energy with a welcome bounce to every step, enabling you to walk comfortably for longer. This supportive midsole enhances the stable feeling to keep you walking securely over various ground conditions. It delivers strong absorption, soaking up the impact of each step to protect the foot against becoming fatigued after walking or standing for most of the day. The rubber outsole is resistant to chemicals and spills, providing comfortable support while enhancing your safety while navigating challenging surface conditions. However, this clog isn’t true to size, so you might be more comfortable choosing a smaller size option.
Skechers Work Work Oswald – Balder Clog’s
The Skechers Work Work Oswald – Balder Clog’s rubber upper keeps the foot protected against wetness and other hazards that may be encountered on and off the worksite. It moves along with your steps, making it easier for you to enjoy comfortable walking without rigid components that can hamper your mobility. The molded PU footbed follows the foot’s natural curves for an almost customized feel. It offers strong arch support to prevent the pain that comes with fallen arches, especially when you’ve been upright or walking for hours. The removable footbed makes foot hygiene easier to manage and provides you with a hassle-free way of keeping the clog clean and well-maintained for longer. It also absorbs shock to prevent foot fatigue from developing. The ventilation ports on the side keep the air flowing freely, preserving the cool and dry interior to stop overheating when the clog is used nonstop in hot areas. The slip-resistant outsole delivers strong traction, keeping your steps steady when walking on tricky surface conditions. However, durability isn’t this clog’s strong suit, as the sole tends to come apart after only a short period of use.
Conclusion & Verdict
The Birkenstock Profi Birki Clog is a remarkable choice for those after durable clogs for professional use. The sturdy construction is designed to keep up with demanding activities and work environments for lasting benefits. I was impressed with the upper’s pebbled leather look (even if it’s actually made with PU material), making it suitable for use even in more formal settings. The curved insole offered good cushioning and arch support to keep pain at bay. I liked the outsole’s strong grip, as it made walking on tricky surfaces more manageable and a lot safer. However, this clog feels extremely loose and is considerably pricier compared to other work clogs with similar features.
