Gondolier Slippers

Slippers in Venice are not just any kind of slippers, and thus make for a great souvenir to take back. These highly comfortable slippers were originally worn by peasants living in the nearby countryside, until the Venetian gondoliers began to wear them because they found the rubber soles of the slippers were perfect for keeping a grip on the gondola while not ruining the paint of the boat. Apart from being fashionable and comfortable, these slippers also happen to be eco-friendly. Their soles are made of waterproof canvas jute bags and cardboards, while their soles are made of old bicycle tyres that offer great comfort and utmost stability on slippery surfaces. So that’s why you don’t see any gondoliers falling into the Grand Canal even while navigating, ducking under low bridges and singing serenade.To get authentic Gondolier slippers, head to Friulane.