Clarks Bushacre 2 and 3 are two of the best choices when you are looking for affordable casual desert boots. They are so similar that it’s almost impossible to tell their differences at a glance.
However, after wearing both versions for the last 7 months, I found out the few major variations they got.
And here, I’m gonna give you a detailed discussion of my findings so that you can make the best choice.
So, let’s dive in!
Comparison Table of Clarks Bushacre 2 and 3
Before starting the detailed comparison of these two Clarks boots, here, I am giving you a short overview of their key differences.
Features | Clarks Bushacre 2 | Clarks Bushacre 3 |
---|---|---|
History | Introduced in 2010 as an upgrade of the original desert boots | Released in 2015 as an update of the Bushacre 2 |
Upper Material | Full-grain leather with suede or calf lining | Waxed Suede upper with fabric lining |
Outsole | Natural rubber sole with a crepe-like effect | Faux-Crepe rubber sole |
Lace Design | Cotton laces with a flat appearance | Thick knitted cotton laces |
Insole | Leather-topped multi-density Ortholite footbed | Multi-density Ortholite footbed without any leather topper |
Color options | Less | More |
Price | Affordable | Expensive |
Clarks Bushacre 2 vs 3: How Do They Compare?
From the comparison table, it’s clear that the Clarks Bushacre 2 vary in terms of material, comfort, outsole design, and pricing from the Bushacre 3. And in this segment, I’m gonna discuss these feature differences elaborately.
Here’s a breakdown of the differences between Clarks Bushacre 2 and 3:
1. The Comfort they Offer
Both Bushacre 2 and 3 boots are comfortable right out of the box, thanks to their leather quality and breathable Ortholite insoles.
However, if compared side-by-side, I would say Bushacre 2 is slightly comfier than Bushacre 3. Although both are designed with removable foam insoles and EVA midsole, they don’t offer the same level of comfort.
That’s because the Bushacre 2 has an extra leather layer over the foam insoles. Clarks has incorporated a unique Zone Mapping technology in this version to improve the users’ posture.
However, you can’t find these extra features in the newly released Bushacre 3 boots of Clarks.
Ultimately, Bushacre 2 offers better comfort and benefit to people with foot conditions.
2. Overall Design
The overall design for both Bushacre 2 and 3 is pretty much the same except for the type of lace and eyelets.
Bushacre 2 features flat cotton laces and painted copper eyelets that nearly look like plastic.
Meanwhile, Bushacre 3 comes with round woven laces, which gives a classier vibe. And the stunning brass eyelets elevate the boot’s look even more.
3. Outsole Performance
Both Clarks Bushacre 2 and 3 feature a flexible and grippy outsole.
Just like the original desert boots, Bushacre 3 features a Faux-Crepe rubber outsole for better grip.
This brown outsole provides great traction and less wear. However, one drawback of this Crepe outsole is that it sucks up dirt and water from the ground very easily.
Meaning only a few times of wear can leave you with dirty boots. So, you may need to clean this Clarks desert boot more frequently.
Bushacre 2, on the other hand, features a natural rubber outsole with better traction. This extra grip comes from the added roughness around the heel and forefoot.
The only drawback of this boot is that its outsole feels kinda stiffer while walking.
However, this little flaw can be masked by the fact that the outsole of this boot shows fewer signs of wear and tear, unlike the Bushacre 3.
4. Size and Fit
Many models of Clarks shoes run big, and Bushacre 2 and 3 are two of them.
Even though some users found them true to size, for me, both boots were half to a full size bigger than my regular size.
Bushacre 2 gives a looser fitting, and I had to go a full size down with them. Conversely, going a half size down was enough to get the perfect snug fit from the Bushacre 3 pair.
Meanwhile, there’s one obstacle I found in their fitting. The fact that they don’t have any upper eyelets, the heel rises with each step, while the heel cap keeps running my ankle.
5. Cost
The best thing about Clarks Bushacre 2 and 3 is that they both come at affordable prices. Yet, when you compare their price range, the Bushacre 2 is much cheaper than the Bushacre 3 boots.
You can get a pair of Bushacre 2 at an affordable price range of $46 to $100.
Meanwhile, a pair of Bushacre 3 can cost you around $51 to $150.
Pros and Cons of Clarks Bushacre 2 and 3
A proper understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of a pair can help you make the right choice.
So, let’s find out the pros and cons of Clarks Bushacre 2 and 3 boots:
Clarks Bushacre 3
- »Perfect combination of style and quality.
- »Durable Crepe-outsole.
- »Classy braided lacing system.
- »Wide toe-box design.
- »Comfy foam insoles.
- »Wide range of color options.
- »Expensive.
- »Runs bigger than the regular size.
Clarks Bushacre 2
- »Better cushioning.
- »Rubber outsole lasts longer.
- »Affordable price range.
- »Zone mapping technology.
- »Less overall durability.
- »Less ankle support.
- »Limited color options.
Which One Would Be Better For You?
Clarks offer great value at a low price through its Bushacre line. Likewise, the Bushacre 2 and 3 cover all the features you can think of in a pair of Chukkas.
Both boots do great when you want casual yet stylish boots for daily use. However, the few differences that the boots have made them better for different purposes.
For example, the layered foam insoles with added gait mapping technique make Bushacre 2 comfier than other models. Another considerable factor is that you can buy these desert boots with all the advanced facets at such a low price.
So if you have foot conditions or just want an affordable yet comfy pair for casual use, Bushacre 2 is the one for you.
Meanwhile, Bushacre 3 is a complete package of comfort, style, performance, and quality.
When it comes to comfort, this version can be slightly on the lower side. Still, the removable foam insoles and padded tongue is comfy enough for everyday use.
In my opinion, with the versatile look, fancy crepe outsole, and durable construction, Bushacre 3 is the winner here.
FAQs
Are Clarks Desert Boots Comfortable?
Yes, most Clarks’ desert boots are quite comfortable. The leather in these boots is so soft and supple that it gradually molds around your feet over time. Plus, the flexible and bouncy crepe rubber outsole adds more comfort.
Are Clarks Bushacre 2 and 3 Waterproof?
No, Bushacre 2 or 3 are not waterproof, as the leather materials used in them don’t have water-wicking ability. So, your boots, as well as your feet, may get wet when exposed to a wet environment.