Prehistoric sandals

Product description

In ancient Rome, footwear was not only functional but also a symbol of social status. Skilled shoemakers were highly respected craftsmen who created custom shoes for clients from the upper classes. Ordinary citizens, on the other hand, often made their own sandals, such as the simple sandalia or soleae, consisting of a basic sole with a thong between the toes. Soldiers wore sturdy military boots called caligae. For everyday wear, leather shoes like the calceus were common for both indoor and outdoor use, while the crepida featured a hard sole and side laces.

The carbatina (plural: carbatinae) was a type of Roman shoe with a collar, crafted from a single piece of leather. These shoes were widespread across the Roman Empire and remained in use well into the first millennium AD. Typically made from one piece of cowhide, carbatinae formed both the sole and upper part of the shoe without any sewn-on components like outer soles. They were primarily worn by farmers and lower-class citizens. Thanks to their simple and authentic design, carbatinae are ideal for Roman, Greek, late Roman or early medieval reenactment.

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