Typically, such materials would have degraded long ago.  These shoes survived because the Arnold Research Cave provided a dry, protective environment (and because cave looters never stumbled across this shoe stash). Using carbon dating, scientists were able to determine that the shoes are over 8,000 years old.  The scientists found four complete sandals and thirteen nearly-whole slip-on shoes, showing that some styles never go out of vogue.

Expose by Charles David

In fact, the more you read about the Arnold Research Cave discovery, the more you realize that some things never change.  Then, as now, shoe styles varied according to region. Ancient agave-based shoes from west Texas are very different from the woven styles found in Missouri.  Woven shoes found in Colorado were constructed of similar materials as the Arnold Research Cave shoes, but were made in a totally different style.  While they were probably far harder on their shoes than we are, our predecessors were attracted to unique, stylish shoes, just like us.

Pati by Pare

If you’re hoping to emulate the styles found at Arnold Research Cave, check out these modern espadrilles from the Shoefly collection.  Espadrilles are perfect summer shoes– they’ll keep your heels lifted and your feet cool and comfy as you frolic in the mid-summer sun.   Happy hunting!

Top photo via Arnold Research Caves.

1) How are they packaged? Yes, you’ll enjoy showing off that name-brand box during your jaunt home, but it’ll likely end up in the landfill before long.  Shoes are especially prone to over-packaging.  Choose shoes with little extraneous packaging.  When you don’t have a choice, try to reuse as many of the packaging materials as possible.  (I keep hoping the shoe manufacturers will put seeds in their packaging, so that boxes and paper will sprout flowers as they compost.)

2) Where are they produced? Shipping costs are a big part of our eco-footprint.  Choosing locally-made products not only promotes local businesses– it also cuts down on the fossil fuels used to transport goods across land and sea. When possible, avoid shoes that are made in distant lands. (Bonus:  If you buy shoes made in the US, you can be sure you’re supporting fair labor practices.)

3) What are they made with? Manufacturers can greatly reduce their environmental impact by selecting sustainable materials.  When you buy products with these eco-friendly components, you’re encouraging businesses to continue going green.  Some designers, like Stella McCartney, are helping to take the grunge out of green by using sustainable materials in their lush designs.  Look for shoes made with linen, recycled tires, silk, organic cotton, cork, bamboo, and other materials that are quick and easy to grow and/or recycled.

4) How long will they last? Rather than buying cheap shoes, spend a little more initially so that you can keep using the same pair for a long time.  Buying high-quality shoes that can be repaired helps cut down on your overall consumption.

5) How are they produced? It’s not always easy to figure out how products are made, especially when they’re not locally produced.  If you do have a chance to research how your shoes are made, it can be a great way to reduce pollution as you encourage eco-friendly processes.  Shoe manufacturing can be extremely harsh on the environment, as dyeing materials and tanning leather can taint nearby watersheds.

Shoefly has many eco-friendly options, including Comedy by Franco Sarto (shown above).  The Comedy’s canvas upper and rubber sole are complimented by braided rope on the espadrille-style heel.

For the second year, Espadrille and Wedge Sandals are staples of summer. Adding to that, we have noticed that a lot of designers are working ankle wraps into their summer product lines, which we are big fans of. Sure, we know that ankle wraps are conducive to limiting tan lines, but sunscreen is encouraged, or saving your ankle wraps for evening wear. Here are a few of our favorite summer shoes, all of which are under $100.

Question by Franco Sarto – Now $45

Tenora by Pare – Now $88

Indecent Exposure by Seychelles – Now $44