Published on November 1st, 2024 | by Kirsten Borrink

Stegmann Clogs : From Europe [and Missouri] to Your Feet With Love

Stegmann Original 108 clogs (left) and Stegmann Graz Suede clog (right)

This review of Stegmann clogs is provided by Stegmann USA. The opinions are completely our own based on experience.

Have you heard of Stegmann clogs? If you like Haflinger and Birkenstock, you’ll love Stegmann. In fact, back when my RA was at its worst, Stegmann clogs came to the rescue. I’ll never forget my first pair of black merino wool 108s. They were versatile double-duty shoes that supported and comforted my aching feet at home as well as at work as a junior high teacher. I lost track of the brand over the years but am so happy to rediscover it and share my Stegmann love with you, Barking Dog readers.

Stegmann Original 108 Wool Clogs with signature “S” ribbon detail

As the weather cools off here in Chicagoland, my floors do too. I keep my Stegmann clogs by the back door waiting for me like faithful dogs. I kick off my street shoes, slip on my 108s and sigh with relief. The winning combo of soft, non-irritating uppers and enhanced support (for both longitudinal arch and metatarsal arches) feels heavenly on tired, aching feet at the end of the day. Since Stegmann clogs feature a textured EVA outsole, I’m not obligated to leave them at the door! I can run errands, take the garbage out and walk the dog in supreme comfort.

Stegmann Graz Clog in suede

Let’s talk footbeds for a minute. I’m a sucker for a good anatomical cork and latex footbed–and Stegmann Originals have it. It provides the firm support that my wonky foot joints need. I have medium to high arches (one is lower due to a talo-navicular fusion after RA did a number on my mid-foot joints). Stegmann’s firm, medium-high arch support is a perfect fit for my feet–keeps my feet and ankles from rolling in (over-pronation).

Stegmann Graz Clogs in suede (with Mr. Cuddles)

What I love most about my Stegmann clogs is the metatarsal pad. I’m used to the metatarsal support that my Birkenstocks offer, but this is more noticeable. Because I have hammertoes that result in metatarsal pain, the added support brings relief. For anyone that suffers from metatarsalgia, sesamoiditis or Morton’s neuroma, I’d recommend Stegmann. Other awesome features: wide toe box (accommodating of bunions), deep heel cup (keeps foot settled in shoe, promotes alignment), 1” heel rise with ¾ inch toe platform (gentle slope aids in reducing ankle and back pain). I even think the Stegmann clogs with the cork and latex sole will work for those with hallux rigidus–not overly flexible at the big toe joint.

Stegmann clogs are hand-felted on wooden shoe lasts.

Stegmann clogs for men and women

I just found out that Stegmann footwear is hand-crafted in Austria (wool upper), Germany (footbed) and Missouri (assembly), not outsourced to China like some other comfort shoe brands. Each wool upper is hand-felted on a “shoe last,” which is basically a “wooden foot shape.” Much of this wool is sourced locally in the Tyrolian Alps and is part of Stegmann’s Species Preservation initiative to support small farmers and sustain rare breeds of sheep. Isn’t that fascinating?

Barking Dog contributor Beth had the opportunity to review Stegmann’s new sport clog…

The super cute Liesl is a new addition to the Stegmann family! Find it here.

Other welcome features? Plenty of room in the toe box (a plus for anyone with bunions or a wider forefoot), and soft leather that conforms to your foot with wear. The metatarsal bar (raised part of the shoe under the forefoot) felt strange at first, but I found after a few minutes I didn’t notice it as much. And after a longer period of wear, I realized I had none of the ball-of-foot discomfort I often experience due to my bunion. I don’t know how a metatarsal bar works, but it definitely does! The arch support is moderate – not as aggressive as a Birkenstock, but definitely still there. The Eiger Sport would make a great travel shoe with its anti-slip outsole. Keep in mind these are clogs; the heel fit is supposed to be loose.

Stegmann Liesl Skimmer. Available here.

Find all Stegmann clogs featured above in women’s sizes 6-11 for $125-130 from StegmannUsa.com with free shipping and exchanges (see men’s clogs here). Refer to sizing chart for best fit. Good news! Right now, Barking Dog readers can save 10% off an order at checkout with code STEGMANN10.

Have you ever worn Stegmann clogs? We’d love to hear your thoughts!