When it comes to comfortable footwear, few slip-on models can compare with a comfortable set of huaraches. Here is some background on the origins of this wonderful sandal, as well as where to find your own pair of huaraches today.

Huaraches have their origins in the land of Mexico and date back for hundreds of years. For much of their history, these sandals were made woven leather strips across the tops, and featured a leather sole. Many villagers and peasants favored huaraches because they were long wearing, comfortable, and relatively inexpensive to make. A good pair of huaraches could last for several years, even with daily wear and tear.

During the 1930s, a variation on this all-leather sandal construction began to appear. Instead of using leather for the sole of the sandal, the idea of using old rubber from recycled tires began to gain popularity. Because the used tires were even more inexpensive than the leather that had been used for generations, the new hybrid huaraches quickly caught on with many people around Mexico.

By the 1950s, the huarache sandal was gaining popularity in the United States as well. The popularity of the huaraches continued to expand, so that by the end of the 20th century the unique leather sandals were popular all over North and South America.

Today’s huaraches tend to follow the pattern of a rubber sole paired with leather strips across the top of the sandal. However, the use of durable materials such as nylon and corded materials are beginning to show up on a few huarache sandals in place of the leather. This change has also spurred some variance in the appearance of huaraches in general. Originally available only in natural leather shades, the huaraches of today come in a rainbow of colors.

The original slip on design is still available, but in recent years huaraches sporting adjustable Velcro straps have become immensely popular. Along with the strip design that fits comfortably over the top of the foot, there is also the weave design. Regardless of the design these days, huaraches continue to be an ideal casual choice for footwear that allows the foot to breathe on a hot day.

Finding huaraches for sale is not hard to do at all. Many beach stores carry huaraches as part of their beachwear lines. The larger shoe retailers that feature selections for casual footwear often display several models of huaraches prominently throughout the year. Just as in the old days, huaraches provide a lot of wear for a relatively small cost. Anyone who wishes to enjoy comfort with casual style when it comes to footwear would do well to consider a pair of huaraches.