You may know them as “flip-flops” or as my Australian mates call them “thongs”, but here in Hawaii we wear “rubber slippers”. Living on an island, slippers are an essential part of an un-official Hawaii uniform. Flip-flops were inspired by traditional woven Japanese sandals. Post war, versions were briefly popularized by servicemen returning from Japan.
There are a few important things you should know about slippers, price doesn’t matter. In fact here in Hawaii, it almost seems that the less expensive your slipper – the better it will be. One of my favorite slipper shopping spots is Long’s Drug Store where I purchase my size 10 “Locals” slippers.
Another vital bit of slipper etiquette, when entering a home in Hawaii it is customary to always remove your shoes. Yet another good reason to wear them, easy-on and easy-off. Typically you will notice a stash of slippers outside the doorway. Which brings me to another pointer – when leaving a large party don’t be surprised if someone may have “upgraded” and taken your slippers upon their departure. By don’t worry; in keeping with the Aloha Spirit, they will be sure to leave you their older pair. (Posted by CM – images Wikapedia).
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
Entry Filed under: Big Island,Kauai,Maui,Molokai,Oahu
April 7th, 2008
6 Comments Add your own
1. A Maui Blog | April 18th, 2008 at 6:26 am
yeah … rubber “slippah” bro!
2. Matthew C | April 20th, 2008 at 4:27 am
I think the Hawaiian custom of removing shoes in homes is excellent. I wish more people in England would do that.
I dedicated an whole blog to the subject of removing shoes:
Shoes Off at the Door, Please
3. Debo Hobo | April 24th, 2008 at 5:18 am
Now that is funny, I guess there is no point in buying “designer” flips if someone is just going to permanently borrow them. LOL:)
4. Artist Blake | May 18th, 2008 at 6:22 pm
YES=joyful!!
Aloha spirit is flowing-
Inhale joy and exhale aloha
I will be launching my new style,of aloha slippers!!
Spreading joy one step at a time.
get ready!!!
5. Glenda | June 6th, 2008 at 5:05 pm
Hawaii…beautiful customs and a beautiful place…to bad you can’t wear flip flops all year long here in Ohio
Aloha
6. 21 May 2009 - Hippie Mama&hellip | May 21st, 2009 at 5:47 am
[...] most importantly, in Hawaii, these rubber creations are referred to as slippers. But apparently, slipper = flip flop does not work on the mainland since [...]
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