Founder's Name and Background Havaianas was founded by Brazilian manufacturer Alpargatas S.A., inspired by the rubber flip-flops popularized in Hawaii and the traditional Japanese Zori sandal. The name Havaianas is derived from the Portuguese word for "Hawaiians", chosen as a homage to the tropical vacation destination where rubber flip-flops originated.
Year of Foundation 1962
Best Known For Iconic Brazilian rubber flip-flops, recognised worldwide as a symbol of the country's vibrant carefree lifestyle.
Tiny Biography Originally from Brazil, Havaianas has been spreading the Brazilian spirit across the world since 1962. Created in Brazil and inspired by traditional Japanese Zori sandals, Havaianas swapped the woven straw sole for rubber and modernised the look — hence the iconic rice-grain sole pattern. Officially recognised by the Brazilian government as an intrinsic part of the country's culture, Havaianas was even listed alongside rice and beans as an essential good. Today, with over 250 million pairs sold annually in more than 100 countries, Havaianas has grown from a beach essential to a global icon, from the streets of Brazil to the world's most renowned contemporary art museums.
