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Early Shoes Are the Basis of Today's Men's Loafers and Women's Sandals

Shoes have been around for a long time, their first use was believed to have started over 25,000 years ago. We know this from the discovery of many ancient human foot bones from various ages. Gradual changes in the shape of the foot were noted over time and also that the formation of the toes began to narrow. Along with finds of very early primitive shoe like relics, this information helped us pinpoint an estimated date. We are able to establish that shoes, like today's style Mens loafers, were worn in the colder climates. In the warmer climates we have found shoes with straps that were very early versions of today's women's sandals.

Early shoes were merely pouches of leather that were worn on the foot to protect from rocks, debris and the cold. It is impossible to identify the first person who had the concept. From the Middle Ages onwards these simple coverings were further developed with drawstrings to give a more secure fit. Until the 1800's all shoes were made with no differences between a left foot and a right foot. This was improved along with the introduction of sown on soles. These formed the basic template for many of the men's loafers and Women's sandals that we see worn today.

When shoes, and shoe styles, were first introduced into Europe they were very well received by everyone. They became one of the earliest status symbols as they were all hand sewn and crafted, and so expensive at the time. All parts of the shoe and sole were hand stitched and this was rather time consuming and a skilled craft. New styles were developed over time, as it became popular among the rich to have fancy shoes. The quality and styling of ones footwear became very important as an indictor of wealth and status in society.

The earliest sign of styling and functionality in shoes was seen on the discovery of Ötzi the Iceman mummy in 1991. He was found in the Alps and named after the area of the Ötz valley were he was originally found. His footwear was very interesting and gives us a few clues as to the probable earliest origin of men's loafers, women's sandals and many other shoe styles. His unique shoes were constructed from brown bear skin leather bases. They had side panels made of deerskin and a bark string netting that pulled the shoe tight to the foot. These creatively designed items of footwear were indications that shoes could be customized and adapted for the particular environment or activity. The concept for men's loafers, and other slip on styles without laces, was derived from the first shoe. The idea of Women's sandals made with a sole and straps and other open toed footwear, originates from the very first shoe styles.

Today the majority of shoes are mass produced in factories. The sewing is done by machines and the materials are totally different. Advances in science and technology have allowed the shoe to evolve. There are also many accessories available for shoes like shoe horns, shoes trees, brushes and special shoe polishes. Shoes have become an essential since their conception but they are an essential that can also add individuality. An outfit can be made all the more stunning with the right shoes. Celebrities are massive fans of shoes and some famous pairs can command huge amounts at charity auctions.

Today we are spoilt for choice with the range of shoes available. Shoes such as men's loafers and women's sandals are to be found in all colors, sizes and width fittings. The shoe website shoeocean.com has all the latest styles in stock for both men and women.

Today's shoes are designed to cushion the feet in all the right places. Our early ancestors gave us the original designs for shoes and they have certainly evolved with us. The word ‘shoe' is described as ‘an external covering for the human foot'. Shoes are so much more than that and will continue to be a brilliant invention.

About the Author

This article is written by Alexsis Grovenor.

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