Bedrock Mountain Clog Review: An Adventure-Ready Mule for Daily Wear

Bedrock Sandals first came on the scene making ultralight hiking sandals unlike anything Chaco, Teva, or the other big players were making. The upstart's early 2011 prototype has since become the Bedrock Cairn, a cult hero among hikers that has spawned a whole range of Cairn Evo iterations catering to those that crave the barefoot feel and others looking for more comfort and cushion. And for those looking to cover their toes but still free the heel, Bedrock makes the Mountain Clog, a comfy mule for daily wear that's at home in mountain towns and city centers alike (more on my wear test below). With a wide toe box, Vibram Megagrip outsole, and an innovative strap system with 3 adjustment zones, they're ready for action—and just chilling, too.

The initial Bedrock Clogs' 2023 release sold out in a matter of weeks—and then their entire restock shipment was stolen in an Oceans Eleven style heis (seriously). Now, for fall 2024 the Montana-based sandal brand has released three new colors (Deep Plum, Driftwood Gray, Ponderosa Brown), bringing the available colorways up to seven across nubuck leather, leather suede, and synthetic suede finishes.

My Bedrock Clog Review

I've been testing the suede leather version (in Clay, as pictured above and below) for half a year now and with every wear find myself more drawn to the unique style. Throughout spring and summer they became my go-to when heading to the climbing gym and running errands around town. Though it's worth noting the Bedrock Clog lives its best life during the cooler months—the suede upper backed by polyester spacer mesh is breathable, but got a bit clammy during the humid NYC summer when worn sans socks. Probably a bit stinky too, though I haven't dared give a whiff myself.

Better yet, they have also become my preferred travel shoe (with thick socks of course). The easy on/off strap design is especially nice for security and getting settled on long flights, the clog footbed with arch support is comfortable for long walks (and quick sprints to catch a cab/train/plane), and the padded suede upper is warm enough for airplanes. Compared to conventional shoes, the clog simply reins supreme—I wear mine for most all activities, including riding bicycles and casual hikes. Plus the leather suede has begun to stretch and mold to my foot, which only makes me want to wear them more.

Despite the departure in design, the Bedrock DNA is still present in the Mountain Clog. Like the brand's celebrated sandals—a mash-up between flip-flops and hiking sandals—the Mountain Clog is designed for natural movement with a lightweight, zero-drop footbed, Vibram sole for max grip, and a widely adjustable strap system that makes for a seriously secure fit (though i wear mine rather floppy most of the time). The protective closed-toe upper is a welcomed design addition, as it's saved my toes plenty of times both at home and on the trail. The swath of grippy climbing rubber toe-cap also increases durability… and just looks cool.

Compared to most clogs, mules, and slides, the new Bedrock Mountain Clogs are ready for adventure— unlike Crocs , these clogs are designed for both chilling and legitimate all-terrain wear—though it's dressed up enough to rock at dinner with a nice pair of trou, too. But the best part might be that after miles and miles of wear, if I ever put enough miles on my pair to wear out the Vibram sole, I can send them off to Bedrock’s Missoula headquarters for a full-blown resole service, and a few more years of use.

The Bedrock Mountain Clogs are available in both leather or a perforated and lined synthetic.

Price: $160 (synthetic upper); $175 (leather upper)

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