The Hawa Sandals: Celebrating Six Years of Greatness

Six years ago, we teamed up with New York based multi-disciplinary artist, Saks Afridi to create something that would change the course of shoemaking — a sandal that was both rooted in tradition and refined in design. What emerged was the Hawa Sandal, a product born out of collaboration, care, and a shared vision for craftsmanship that endures. Today, as we celebrate its sixth anniversary, we revisit the essence of what makes the Hawa Sandal more than just footwear.

A Collaborative Spirit: From Concept to Creation

The story of the Hawa Sandal is one of synergy. It began not as a trend, but as a tribute. Born out of a partnership between artist and designer, it made its way between past knowledge and present sensibilities. From the initial sketches to the final polish, every pair is a dialogue — between aesthetics and ethics, design and durability, form and function.

Our artisans, many of whom have been with us from the beginning, brought not just skill but soul into every stitch and seam. Their legacy — passed through generations — is embedded in the very leather that wraps around your feet. 

The Hawa Sandal wasn’t built for the runway — it was built for real life. For city strolls, coastal travels, lazy weekends, and spirited conversations. What set it apart was its purpose: to be timeless, to feel effortless, and to last — season after season, year after year.

A Never-ending Legacy

In a world overrun with overproduction, the Hawa Sandal has remained intentional. Instead of letting passing trends make it redundant, we’ve focused on refining the original — subtle tweaks, better comfort, more conscious sourcing.

The longevity of the Hawa Sandal isn't just physical; it's emotional. We’ve heard stories of customers who have worn theirs across continents, through festivals and weddings, to beaches and bustling streets. It’s this kind of companionship that turns footwear into keepsakes.

A Star Patron

Among those who’ve embraced the Hawa Sandals with open arms and steady steps is artist and cultural icon Faris Shafi. A true connoisseur of craftsmanship, Faris has worn the Hawa Sandals across stages and screens — from the vibrant sets of Coke Studio music videos to electrifying live performances, and even red carpet moments at movie debuts.

What makes Faris such a remarkable patron isn’t just his influence — it’s his authenticity. He wears the Hawa Sandal not for endorsement, but because it aligns with his values: cultural integrity, individuality, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. In many ways, his artistic journey and personal style mirror the ethos of the sandals — rooted, expressive, and uncompromising.

Each time Faris steps onto a stage in the Hawa Sandal, it reaffirms our belief that slow-made design has a place in the modern world. His repeated choice of Hawa Sandals over the years has been one of our most organic and meaningful collaborations to date.

Here’s to the Future

As we mark this milestone, we're not just looking back in nostalgia — we’re looking forward with purpose. The Hawa Sandal has always stood out for its thoughtful design, and that philosophy continues to guide us. It’s a sandal made with pride, meant to be lived in, and built to last.

To everyone who has walked a journey in the Hawa Sandal — thank you. For choosing slow over fast. Craft over convenience. And for believing that something as everyday as a sandal can carry a story worth celebrating.

Here’s to the next six years — and every step in between.