Dictionary

Klompen — traditional Dutch wooden shoes, the first of which appeared about 800 years ago. The origin of this type of shoes is related to the specific natural conditions of the Netherlands with its humid temperate marine climate, when there is a high probability of wet feet all year round. Historically, they were spread among the poor people, peasants and fishermen who could not afford to buy ‘real’ shoes, while wooden shoes were simple to manufacture and reliably protected not only from moisture, but also from winter cold — due to the thick sole, which was sometimes additionally insulated with straw. Most often such shoes are made from aspen or poplar wood.