When our ancestors were busy shaping history, they were most likely wearing shoes. Examining shoes can help provide fascinating insights into the history, lifestyles, religions, climates, fashion trends, and traditions of global cultures both ancient and modern. The use of shoes also evolves over time, often serving a distinct purpose originally before it became a fashion trend. For example, creepers are now beloved footwear within countercultures such as indie, ska, new wave, psychobilly, goth, and punk.
Originally, they were worn in North African deserts, the thick soles designed to navigate through sandy terrain and extreme temperatures. One of the primary influences of shoes (and fashion as a whole) is climate. In breezy, warm countries such as Spain, you will find light, woven footwear such as espadrilles. In the Arctic, shoes such as mukluks provide the necessary warmth, flexibility, and durability for thriving in such extremes.
