During our walk around town on Wednesday, Bryan and I stopped in at the Island Sandals store in the Wharf. I have always walked past it, always been curious, but had never stopped in until now.
I'm so glad we made the trip!
The store is owned and run by craftsman Michael Mahnensmith. He was a delight to meet and so wonderful to talk to.
His custom and handmade leather sandals are based on a design used 3,000 years ago by the desert warriors of King Solomon in Ethiopia.
The sandals feature one single strap that creates a harness around, under and over your foot that securely keeps you in place every step you take. Michael says that this was the same design that warriors and runners in Ancient Ethiopia wore, and he says that you can run in your as well.
I tried on a sandal in his shop, and I'm deeply in love. The price for a handmade pair of Michael's sandals cost $165 for ladies and $185 for gentlemen.
My jaw dropped a little at the price, but you have to keep in mind that they are custom made for your two feet, and they are handmade by Michael. I loved talking to Michael about his craft and his store. He was a gracious host and showed us many of his tools, his materials and told us the history of his work and designs.
I'm thinking about splurging and treating myself to a pair! Unfortunately, it would take a while to get them into my hands. He told me that he can get me my sandals in six to eight weeks. I think it would be worth the wait! Until then, I may be going back to the shop and picking his brain. If you are in Lahaina, please go check him out! His shop is open every day except Sundays from about 10 am to 4 pm.
If you want to learn more, check out his website.
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