rubber thongs

Fair Dinkum Flip Flops: A Celebration of Rubber Thongs in Australia

Welcome to the definitive guide to the humble rubber thong, the Aussie icon that's as essential as a BBQ and a stubby. Whether you call them thongs, flip flops, or jandals (we don't judge here!), these trusty footwear companions have been slapping on our shores for decades. So, pull up a stubby, chuck another snag on the barbie, and dive into the fascinating world of rubber thongs on OZ!

Thongs: A Storied Past

While the exact origin of thongs is debated, their history stretches back millennia. Ancient Egyptians fashioned sandals from papyrus reeds, while similar footwear has been found in civilizations across the globe. The modern rubber thong, as we know it, emerged in the early 20th century. The iconic "Havaianas" brand, founded in Brazil in 1962, is often credited with popularizing the style worldwide.

In Australia, rubber thongs arrived around the same time and quickly became a national treasure. Their practicality in the hot climate, coupled with their affordability and comfort, made them a go-to choice for beach days, backyard barbies, and casual outings.

The Thong Advantage: Why Aussies Love Them

There's a reason why rubber thongs are practically a uniform in Australia. Here's what makes them the perfect footwear for our way of life:

Climate Kings: Australia boasts some of the hottest sun on the planet. Thongs keep your feet cool and comfortable, allowing for maximum air circulation.
Beach Bums Paradise: From Port Douglas to Port Headland, our stunning coastline beckons. Thongs are easy to slip on and off, perfect for quick dips in the ocean or navigating scorching sand on the way back tio the car.
Outback All-Stars: Even in the rugged outback, thongs offer surprising durability. They can handle dusty trails, rocky terrain, and the occasional encounter with friendly wildlife (except maybe snakes – chuck on some boots for those!). Keep a pair in you 4WD and handy in your road-train.
Effortlessly Stylish: Let's face it, thongs just ooze laid-back Aussie style. They pair perfectly with boardies, budgie smugglers (speedos to our pommy mates), or a casual summer frock.

Durable and comfortable:

We cannot argue with the durability of the old favourite, the trusted double pluggers or the wide strap comfort of the nylon strapped Surfer Joe and Boardees.

Thongs: A Cultural Icon

Rubber thongs have transcended mere footwear in Australia. They're a symbol of our relaxed, beachy lifestyle. They've been featured in iconic films like "Muriel's Wedding" and "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert." Countless Aussie bands have sported thongs on stage, from AC/DC to The Wiggles (all hail the Fruit Salad!).

g'day mate double pluggers

Choosing the Perfect Pair of Thongs

With a plethora of thong options available, finding the perfect pair is a breeze. Here's a quick guide:

Material: Classic rubber offers durability and affordability. For a touch of luxury, consider leather or fabric thongs.
Style: From the simple single-strap design to colourful toe posts and embellished options, there's a thong for every taste.
Brand Loyalty: Australia boasts a thriving thong industry. Support local with brands like G'Day Mate Double Pluggers and Boardees

Beyond the Beach: Thongs for Every Occasion

While synonymous with beach life, thongs are surprisingly versatile. Here are some unexpected places you can rock your favourite pair:

The Backyard Bash: No barbie is complete without the rhythmic slap of thongs on the patio.
The Local Pub: Thongs are perfectly acceptable footwear in most casual pubs, especially in coastal areas.
The Food Run: For a quick dash to the shops or the servp, why not? Perfect for keeping your feet off the hot black stuuf and the servo forecourt fuel mess.
boardees thongs

Thongs: Taking Care of Your Mates

Like any good mate, your thongs deserve some TLC. Here are some tips to keep them looking and feeling their best:

Give Them a Rinse: After a day at the beach, rinse your thongs with fresh water to remove sand and salt.
Sun Smart: While they love the sun, prolonged exposure can damage the rubber. Let them dry in the shade after use.
Show Some Love: For stubborn dirt, a gentle scrub with soapy water can work wonders. Avoid harsh chemicals.

The Future of Thongs in Australia

The future of rubber thongs in Australia is bright! As our climate continues to heat up, thongs will remain a popular choice for their practicality and comfort. Plus, with a growing focus on sustainability, eco-friendly thong materials like recycled rubber are gaining traction.