Clarks retro-style sneakers

Clarks is a historic British footwear brand founded in 1825 by brothers Cyrus and James Clark in Street, Somerset, England. Originally famous for creating slippers from sheepskin offcuts, the company evolved into a global leader in everyday footwear, known for iconic styles like the Desert Boot and Wallabee.

While the brand maintains its design and heritage roots in the United Kingdom, its manufacturing has shifted entirely overseas. Today, Clarks shoes are produced in various countries across Asia, including Vietnam, Cambodia, China, and India, to leverage global supply chains.

In early 2021, the brand underwent a significant ownership change when Viva China Holdings (now known as Viva Goods), led by Olympic gymnast Li Ning, acquired a majority stake in the company via the private equity firm LionRock Capital. This marked the first time in nearly two centuries that the Clark family surrendered majority control, though they remain shareholders in the business.