Do you remember treads?

A friend of mine posted something last week about treads. What a blast from the past. Some of you will not even know what treads are, but it took me back to 1976, proudly wearing my blue and grey treads to see ABBA at the Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne.

I thought they were so cool but looking back they were quite bizarre sandals made from recycled tyres and suede that were so heavy you sort of dragged them around. I'm not surprised it was my sister who bought them for me and not my mum. Mum and dad did not approve.

Delving into the phenomenon of treads, it all seems a bit of a mystery. Were they just a Victorian fashion statement? Were there manufacturers or were they home-made in backyards across Melbourne? Search on the internet and you will find a bit of a resurgence so if you want to buy that 'fashion mistake' again, you can.

Did anyone have a pair of treads?

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No, but what they lack in style, they make up in durability. Ideal footwear for the homeless in hot weather!

Good for the environment maybe.

Yes 1970's recycling 

I have seen them but can't remember who or where

I've never heard of them. Odd looking for sure.

Very popular with the surfies back in the day. Went nicely with Levi thin cords.

I had pair and they were quite comfortable, long lasting, don't remember them being that heavy, there are many shoes that are heavy like big boots. Would be interesting to know the history of them. Are they really making a come back?

I don't remember them but quite a lot of info here ...

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-24/treads-vintage-shoes-1970s-fashion/100084642

Thanks RnR, was interesting to read she cannot make them from new tyres so looks like it will be a limited thing for the future, will be collectable lol.

Last time I saw that style was when Moses came down from the mountain, not high fashion

Having read that article -- seems like a good idea if they can use up many disregarded rubber goods

The ones above are very similar to mine (which I still have). Loved them, and yes I'm from Melbourne too. 

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