Centuries old footwear

Simply and sturdily made, felt slippers have several natural advantages. Devised for use in arctic conditions they are biodegradable, breathable, warm and practically waterproof. It all adds up to footwear that is eco-friendly. Although our way of life has changed over time, these properties have helped this design classic survive into the 21st century. The making of felt from wool is an old Finnish skill, originally used solely to make hats. Slippers and the skills needed to produce them came from Russia in the late 18th century. The Russian craftsmen had learnt in their turn from Turkish nomads and with the help of Russian technicians the first factory opened in Finland in 1897. Large and small factories have been manufacturing felt slippers and socks ever since with only a. pause during World War II, when production came to a temporary halt due to lack of materials.

Today, there are only a few dedicated family companies which manufacture felt products. Alhon Huopatehdas concentrate on slippers and socks while Huopaliike Lahtinen’s range includes insoles, boots, bags and hats. Elements of production are still done by hand but the companies are moving with the times. Traditionally colours were limited to basic reds, dark blue, grey and white; but this fall new colours will be introduced including pink and denim blue.

For years the felt slipper was seen as the province of older, northern Finnish country folk and forestry workers. Increasingly, though, they are being sought out by ecologically inclined young urbanites, as well as international fashion and design-conscious consumers. Slippers from Huopaliike Lahtinen – the oldest felt factory in Finland – are available from the Selvedge shop online or in store and cost £52.95. Shop Slippers here.  We've had a new batch delivered – just in time for Christmas posting. This is an extract from Kaija Savolainen's article in the Wool issue of Selvedge. www.selvedge.org