Best Flipflops in the World

Havaianas (Brazilian Portuguese: ah-vai-YAH-nas, usually pronounced by Americans as: hah-vee-ah-naz.) is a Brazilian sandal brand (also known as Flip-flops or thongs) that is exported internationally, for example, being featured at several stores in the United States and the Philippines. Since their creation in 1962, more than two billion pairs have been manufactured.

Havaianas' design is inspired by the Japanese rice straw and wood zori sandals used with kimono. They employ a simple, functional design, sometimes featuring a small symbol such as the Brazilian flag on the strap. The name Havaianas, is Portuguese for Hawaiians.

There are several types of Havaianas, ranging from the traditional flat-heeled model (pictured) to platforms.

Havaianas are produced by São Paulo Alpargatas SA. In its plant, located in the city of Campina Grande, five pairs of sandals per second are produced, generating an annual production of 105 million pairs.