our story
Havaianas has been spreading the Brazilian spirit around the world since 1962 with its iconic rubber sole and bright, colorful and summer-infused designs. With flip flops sold in over 100 countries, Havaianas has become synonymous with modern flip flops, cementing itself as a must-have for beach-goers and trendsetters alike. Learn more about our story creating a global icon!
1962
a star is born
Havaianas were created in Brazil in 1962, inspired by traditional Japanese Zori sandals. They swapped the woven straw for rubber and modernized the look—hence the signature rice-grain sole pattern. The name “Havaianas,” meaning “Hawaiians” in Portuguese, was chosen to evoke the tropical, glamorous, endless-summer vibe of Hawaii.
1964
the kombi
By 1964, practically everyone in Brazil wore a pair of havaianas flip flops and traveling salesmen would sell Havaianas directly from their vintage Volkswagen Kombi vans throughout Brazil.
1966
the original rubber flip flop
Not to brag, but havaianas invented the original rubber flip flop! Here’s our proof: In 1966, our parent company, Alpargatas, registered the patent of our now world famous rubber thong!
1969
more colors of flip flops
At first, Havaianas were only available in blue and white. But in 1969, a production error produced a batch of green havaianas, which ended up hitting the marketplace. The reaction was so positive that we started producing the Top, with a wider variety of colors, including green, brown, yellow, and black.
1980
an essential
Havaianas was officially recognized as an intrinsic part of Brazilian culture by the Brazilian Government after we were included on a list of everyday fundamental products (alongside rice and beans!) to control inflation. Millions of pairs of our flip flops were already being sold each year in Brazil.
1998
Brazilian passion
To celebrate the ’98 World Soccer Championship, we launched the 'Havaianas Brazil” – a style with a small Brazilian flag on the strap. It still remains one of the best-selling flip flops globally.
1999
a runway phenomenon
Havaianas transcends into the world of fashion after making a runway debut in French designer, Jean Paul Gaultier’s, runway show. Soon after, havaianas began working with some of the biggest and greatest brands and designers from around the world.
2000’s
re-inventing classics
Havaianas never ceases to innovate, and year after year, we continue to release new styles such as Slim flip flops for women, sandals and Square toe flip flops. In addition, the brand has launched special collections with details like crystals and embroideries, handcrafted designs.
