Shoes History and Fun Facts

1. It is believed that the first simple shoes were made from animal skin and wood cread created over 8 thousand years ago.

2. Middle Eastern shoemakers started producing shoes with heel to make walking across hot sand more bearable

3. Sneakers were first introduced in Europe in late 19th century, but they became more popular after American Manufacturers started producing them in factories.

4. Pointed toes on shoes became symbol of wealth and power in Europe. Which remained in fashion between 11th and 15th century.

5. Fetish of collecting high heel footwear is called Altocalciphilia.

6. First shoes were created  by people in hot and cold environments that had great need to protect their feet from the natural elements. 

7. Even during World War II, shoe manufacturers managed to find a way to satisfy high demand for high heeled female shoes by making them from unconventional materials such as wood straws of snake skins.

8. Chinese brides throw one of their bridal red shoes to the roof of their house to ensure the couples happiness.

9. Stiletto high heel shoes were designed by Roger Emanuel in 1954. The word "stiletto" came from Latin word that means "stake" or "small knife".

10. Shoes were part of many ancient and modern ceremonies. In Middle Ages, groom received his bride shoes from her father, in Hungary groom drinks wine from her bride's slipper, and in popular American culture shoes are often tied up to the car of the newly weds.