The History of Havaianas: How a Brazilian Thong Became a Global Icon

Few things say summer quite like a pair of Havaianas.

Whether they’re being worn to the beach, around the pool, on holiday or simply as an everyday pair of thongs, Havaianas have become one of the most recognisable footwear brands in the world.

But the story behind those famous rubber thongs goes back more than 60 years — and it actually begins with a traditional Japanese sandal.

Where Did Havaianas Begin?

Havaianas were created in Brazil in 1962 by Brazilian footwear company Alpargatas. The original design was inspired by the traditional Japanese Zori sandal, which featured fabric straps and soles made from woven rice straw. For the Brazilian market, the straw sole was replaced with durable rubber. However, a little piece of that original inspiration remained. Take a close look at the footbed of a pair of Havaianas and you’ll notice the distinctive rice-grain texture moulded into the rubber — a design feature that can still be seen on Havaianas today.

What Does Havaianas Mean?

Despite being one of Brazil’s most famous brands, the name itself looks beyond Brazil.

Havaianas means “Hawaiians” in Portuguese.

The name was chosen to evoke the relaxed, tropical and endless-summer lifestyle associated with Hawaii — an image that suited a simple pair of warm-weather sandals perfectly. More than six decades later, that connection to summer, beaches and relaxed outdoor living remains a huge part of the Havaianas identity.

From Simple Thongs to a Brazilian Favourite

The early Havaianas were simple and practical. By the mid-1960s, the humble rubber thong had become incredibly popular throughout Brazil. Travelling salespeople even sold Havaianas directly from Volkswagen Kombi vans as they travelled through towns across the country. The original colour combination was also much simpler than the huge range we know today. Initially, Havaianas were mainly available in blue and white. Then came a lucky mistake.

The Production Mistake That Changed Havaianas

In 1969, a production error resulted in a batch of green Havaianas being made. Rather than being a disaster, customers loved them. The unexpected popularity of the green version encouraged Havaianas to introduce additional colours including brown, yellow and black. It was an early sign that Havaianas could become more than simply practical footwear — colour and personal style could become part of the brand too.

Becoming Part of Brazilian Culture

By the 1980s, Havaianas had become such an everyday part of life in Brazil that the Brazilian Government included them on a list of fundamental household products used in inflation controls, alongside staples such as rice and beans. Millions of pairs were already being sold each year. What had started as an affordable rubber sandal was becoming part of Brazilian culture.

Surfers Help Change the Look

There’s even a little surf history in the Havaianas story. During the 1990s, people — including Brazilian surfers — began turning the traditional Havaianas soles over so that their thongs appeared to be one solid colour. Havaianas took notice. The brand began introducing single-colour styles and then expanded further into printed designs, patterns and an ever-growing choice of colours. The practical Brazilian thong was quickly becoming a fashion item.

From Brazil to the World

Havaianas continued to grow internationally throughout the 1990s and 2000s. In 1998, a style featuring the small Brazilian flag on the strap was released in connection with the World Cup. The Brazilian flag would go on to become one of the most recognisable details associated with the brand. By the end of the decade, Havaianas were even appearing in the fashion world, including on a Jean Paul Gaultier runway. From there, the range continued expanding. Classic styles were joined by slimmer straps, new colours, prints, sandals, fashion-focused designs and collaborations — while the simple rubber thong remained at the heart of the brand.

Why Are Havaianas Still So Popular?

Part of the appeal of Havaianas is their simplicity. They’re easy to slip on, lightweight, practical for warm weather and available in an enormous range of colours and designs. For Australians, they also fit naturally into our lifestyle.

Beach trip? Thongs.

Heading to the pool? Thongs.

Camping? Thongs.

Taking the dog for a walk? Thongs.

Just need something quick to throw on? You guessed it.

It’s easy to see why a Brazilian design created more than 60 years ago feels right at home in Australia.

Havaianas at Rapid Surf & Ski

At Rapid Surf & Ski, we stock a range of Havaianas for men, women and kids, including classic styles and the popular Slim range. With warmer weather on the way, now is a great time to grab a fresh pair for the beach, holidays, pool or everyday summer wear.

Shop the Havaianas range at Rapid

Or explore our complete range of thongs and slides.

Surf. Snow. Ski. Wake. Thongs. Havaianas.