Huaraches are traditional Mexican leather sandals. Their exact age is unknown, but the indigenous people of Mexico were making and wearing them before Columbian times. Extremely durable, huaraches are still cut, woven, and stitched with a single strip of leather by hand – just as they were hundreds of years ago.
Huaracheria Fabiola is a family-owned shop near the Cuale River, in business since 1977. And even though the shop is small, its selection is anything but – stacks of huaraches of all styles and sizes cover the walls. One of the most popular styles is a version made for hiking, complete with soles made from recycled tires for extra traction. The moccasins are also a top-seller. If you can’t find just what you’re looking for, the shop is happy to take custom orders, which they can finish in one to two days. All the huaraches are made out of Vaqueta leather from Guadalajara or Arandas. If you’re not a sandals person, the shop also makes leather bags, cases, and belts.
Huaraches can be difficult to break in. Huacheria Fabiola’s advice? Put a little water on your huaraches, and then wear them until they’re dry. The leather will conform to the shape of your feet, and you’ll have a comfortable pair of sandals that will last for years.
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