Huarache (shoe)

Huaraches (derived from Warachi, in Purépecha, indigenous language   , singular huarache) are a type of Mexican sandal. Pre-Columbian in origin.

Pre-Columbian in origin, the sandals are believed related to the cactle or cactli, of Náhuatl origin. The name "Huarache" is derived from the Purépecha language term kwarachi, and directly translates into English as sandal.

Early forms have been found in and traced to the countryside farming communities of Jalisco, Michoacan, Guanajuato and Yucatan. Originally of all-leather construction, the thong structure around the main foot is still traditionally made with hand-woven braided leather straps.

After originating in the peasant communities, they were adopted by some religious orders, such as the Franciscan friars. In the 1930s, wider variations began to appear, with soles derived from used rubber car tires—hence the modern "tread" form of sole. After the Second World War, veterans started to travel deeper into Mexico; they gained popularity in North America thanks to their adoption as part of the 1960s hippie lifestyle. By the end of the 20th century they were to be found all over North and South America.

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