It is said that shoes speak louder than words and we couldn’t agree more. In our Tribe Tuesday feature today, we look at a true South African classic that requires no words to introduce it – the Zulu tyre sandal. Popularly known in Zulu as “izimbadada” because of the sound they make when walking in them, these traditional shoes have become iconic in South Africa and Zulu culture.
iZimbadada, also known as izingcabulela, are comfortable, long-lasting shoes historically worn by Zulu people in rural KwaZulu Natal. The shoe has a signature rubber look with the soles and straps being made from old car tyres.
While the sandals have a distinguishable sole made from car tyres, designs differ and often custom-made according to the buyer’s request. This can include cow hide embellished straps to straps that are beaded or embroided.
The shoes are a favourite with Zulu people and have been popularised by Mbaqanga and Maskandi musicians. Although izimbadada were symbolic with migrant workers in the apartheid era, today, they are a trendy fashion piece and have been replicated abroad as durable and comfortable shoes for day-to-day walking.
Do you own a pair of Zulu sandals?
*Facts sourced from Wilderness Safaris and images found on Pinterest. Cover image by Percy Matshoba
