Ho Chi Minh's sandals displayed at the Ho Chí Minh Museum. - File photo
HANOI: President Ho Chí Minh, a cultural icon of Vietnam and a revered figure worldwide, is remembered for his simple lifestyle and powerful legacy.
In 1947, he received a pair of sandals made from the rubber tyre of a French car - a humble yet symbolic gift. He wore them for 20 years and they became an enduring symbol of his lifelong revolutionary journey.
The words 'simple', 'comfortable', and 'environmentally friendly' are often used to describe Ho Chi Minh sandals.
The first pair was gifted to President Ho Chí Minh in 1947, crafted from a French car tyre captured at the Viet Bac Revolutionary Base. He wore them for two decades, symbolising resistance and the victory over colonialism.
The image of President Ho Chi Minh (far left) wearing simple tyre sandals had been familiar to Vietnamese people. - File photo
Later, due to its convenience, this sandal design was mass-produced for Vietnamese soldiers during the wars against both French and American forces.
Over time, the sandals evolved from being just a functional item into a symbol of endurance, independence and the unwavering spirit of the Vietnamese people.
A unique, interactive workshop has been launched at the Ho Chi Minh Museum in the heart of Hanoi, which not only promotes sustainability by repurposing old tyres but also offers a memorable cultural experience for international visitors.
"People find this work meaningful," tyre sandal artisan Nguyen Van Truong told Vietnam News.
"We transform waste tyres into something almost like new. They're adjustable, comfortable and carry a story with them."
Artisan Nguyen Van Truong (middle) guides a group of tourists on how to make tyre sandals. - VNS
The Vua Dep Lop brand has introduced hundreds of modern designs to appeal to younger generations, while preserving the essence of the original.
“Our goal is to use rubber sandals to promote Vietnam’s cultural and historical values,” said Nguyen Tien Cuong, the brand’s founder.
“International tourists love authentic experiences, and that’s how we’ll carry this story globally.”
Truong noted that the sandals’ advantages include durability and ease of movement.
"They're great for hiking or crossing streams, and they dry quickly, unlike shoes," he said. "The only downside is the weight, but sometimes a bit of heaviness adds to their stability."
Workshop attendees first learn about the history of the sandals. Afterwards, they measure their foot size and choose the designs they want. Then, they are guided step-by-step in making their sandals.
Visitors find the experience both enjoyable and culturally enriching.
“The sandals are great,” said Nicole Lee, a tourist from Singapore. “You can wear them in both wet and dry conditions - and even in the jungle if you’re hiking!”
Nicole, who spent five days in Hanoi, expressed her admiration for Ho Chi Minh.
"He was very brave. He created these sandals for his soldiers, too,” she said.
"I admire him a lot - he’s my hero.”
Nicole shared that wearing the tyre sandals allowed her to feel a connection to Ho Chi Minh himself.
Tourust Nicole Lee trying to make her first pair of tyre sandals. - VNS
"I would recommend this experience to tourists,” she said. “It lets you walk in his shoes, literally."
Another Singaporean tourist, Mel Tan, enjoyed learning about Vietnam’s history and the new craft she was discovering.
"It’s a fun, new skill to pick up,” she said. “They guide us through the process, and after a while, we’re able to make them on our own. It’s not too challenging."
Mel appreciated the hands-on experience and said, "I think it’s interesting because they share the history behind the sandals while we make them. It’s a good combination of learning and crafting."
Mel also found the sandals surprisingly comfortable and functional.
Artisan Nguyen Tien Cuong emphasised how his company has given new life to discarded tyres through skilled craftsmanship, creating sandals that are both practical and environmentally meaningful.
There are hundreds of modern designs for tyre sandals. - VNS
The company plans to create a tyre ecosystem at the museum.
"There will be a mini museum showcasing different versions of tyre sandals, where visitors can take a closer look,” Cuong said.
"We also plan to host a fashion show featuring tyre sandals."
Visit the Ho Chí Minh Museum at 19B Ngoc Ha Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, immerse yourself in Vietnam’s heritage, embrace sustainability and walk away with more than just footwear - walk away with inspiration! - Vietnam News/ANN
