We’ve been making thongs for Australians for 14 years. What started as a small family operation in Darwin has grown into a proud, Aussie-owned brand that stands for comfort, durability, and the laid-back Australian lifestyle.

Now we’re excited to take our passion for the perfect pair of thongs and partner with the 2024 We Wear Australian campaign, and we want to share why this is such a big deal for us – and for you.

From the very beginning, our mission has been simple: to design thongs that meet the needs of everyday Australians. We live in a country where thongs are part of the uniform, whether you’re heading to the beach, grabbing a cold one with mates, or just taking it easy in the backyard. And here in Darwin, where the sun’s always shining and the weather’s always hot, thongs are more than just footwear – they’re a way of life.

That’s why being part of the We Wear Australian campaign Edition 4, proudly supported by Australia Post is so important to us. This movement celebrates the best of Australian brands, encouraging Aussies to support local businesses that understand what it means to live in this great country. For us, that means more than just selling thongs – it’s about sharing a piece of the Aussie spirit with every pair we make.

One of the things we’re most proud of is that Slappas has always been about quality and craftsmanship. In a world dominated by fast fashion and throwaway products, we’ve stayed true to our roots, creating thongs that are built to last. With their superior arch support and durability, Slappas are designed to give you comfort for the long haul, not just one summer. This focus on quality is at the heart of the We Wear Australian campaign, which is why we’re so happy to be part of it.

When you buy from an Aussie-owned brand, you’re not just getting a product – you’re supporting local jobs, local families, and the local economy. At Slappas, we take that responsibility seriously. Every pair of our thongs is designed with the Aussie lifestyle in mind, from the comfort needed to handle long days on your feet to the durability required for our tough climate. And, of course, every pair is made with the same care and attention to detail that’s kept us going for the past 14 years.

As we look ahead to 2024, we’re excited to continue growing our Slappas community. We’ve built lasting relationships with our customers over the years, and being part of We Wear Australian is another way for us to deepen those connections. It’s about sharing our story, our values, and our love for this incredible country with even more Aussies. And we want you to be a part of that journey with us.

So, why does this campaign matter? Because it’s a reminder that by choosing to shop from Australian businesses, you’re not just making a purchase – you’re supporting local, fostering sustainability, and wearing something that’s truly representative of the Aussie way of life. After all, nothing feels more Aussie than a comfy pair of thongs by Aussies, for Aussies.

As part of our partnership with We Wear Australian, we’re giving you the opportunity to win $40k worth of prizes too!

How to enter!

1. Make any purchase during the campaign period Sept 12-26, 2024
2. Register your purchase on the WeWearAustralian web page. 
3. Prizes drawn October 2, 2024
4. Terms and Conditions apply

Slap on your Slappas and let’s keep the Aussie spirit alive, one step at a time.

First Prize:

• Trip for two to NYFW Feb 2025
• Tickets to the WWA x Australia Post launch event
• $5,000 Australian Designer wardrobe
• $2,000 spending money

Second Prize:

• $5,000 Australian Designer wardrobe

Third Prize:

• $2,000 Australian Designer wardrobe

Whether you’re here for a weekend or have lived here your whole life, there’s a few quintessential Top End experiences you have to tick off. Darwin is famous for a lot of things (some good, some funny, some scary) but we’ve rounded up the top five things to do in Darwin to add to your bucket list…

1. Watch the sunset at Mindil Beach.
Darwin’s sunsets are legendary, and there’s no better place to catch one than at Mindil Beach. Grab a spot on the sand, take in the breathtaking views, and wander through the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. You’ll find everything from local crafts to delicious eats, and of course, our Slappas Thongs stall. Grab yourself a pair of our iconic thongs, they’re perfect for the Darwin lifestyle!

2. Explore the Darwin waterfront.
The Darwin Waterfront is a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Take a dip in the Wave Lagoon, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, or just chill on the grass by the water. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing day out with family or mates.

3. Visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
Get a dose of culture at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT). From Aboriginal art to exhibits on Cyclone Tracy, it’s a fascinating place to learn more about the history and culture of the Top End. And it’s free!

4. Take a crocodile cruise on the Adelaide River.
No trip to Darwin is complete without getting up close and personal with some crocs. Hop on a croc cruise on the Adelaide River to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. It’s a true Top End experience that’ll get your adrenaline pumping!

5. Litchfield National Park day trip.
Just a short drive from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is packed with stunning waterfalls, swimming holes, and lush bushland. Take a dip in the cool waters of Florence Falls, or hike through the beautiful scenery. It’s nature at its finest, and a great way to escape the city for a day.

If you’re visiting Darwin and need directions to our stall at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, reach out here! We’re more than happy to help and we’d love to help you find your perfect fit and perfect pair.

If you’re a Northern Territory local or just traveling through, the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are a Darwin must-do. They’re one of the best local traditions where the sun meets the sand, offering a great night out to soak up a real Darwin experience.

Stroll through the buzzing sea of stalls, sample the best local food, arts, and crafts the Top End has to offer, and stay for the live music and friendly banter. It’s laid-back, it’s lively, and it’s uniquely Darwin.

You will find our Blue Kombi which is our Slappas stall at the high school end near the sound shell, and you can try on the full range of comfortable and supportive Slappas sizes. Roger and Denise the owners will help you find the perfect fit for your feet. Not all thongs are created equal, so if you’re like us and live in thongs, it’s important to find the right fit and fall in love with the perfect pair.

And if you’re new to arch-support thongs, your feet are in for a treat. Slappas aren’t like the average, flat-soled thongs – they’re built with arch support to keep your feet comfy all day long. They’re also made to withstand the harsh Aussie climate with a durable one-piece design that won’t blow out, and we’ve got a colour for everyone.

Head down to the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, soak up the atmosphere, and pop by the Slappas stall to find your perfect size. We’ll be there, ready to help you slip into the most supportive thongs you’ve ever owned – and step into a piece of Darwin’s lifestyle.

Find us Thursdays and Sundays from 4 pm to 9 pm at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets.

Mindil Beach Sunset Markets operate from the last Thursday in April to the last Thursday in October

Us Aussies are known for our laid-back lifestyle, our love for the great outdoors, and an unshakeable spirit that embraces the simple pleasures of life. But let’s face it, nothing puts a damper on the day faster than a pair of dodgy thongs that blow out at the beach.

One moment you’re strolling, the next you’re hobbling with one bare foot on the hot sand, trying to keep your cool while cursing under your breath. There’s truly nothing worse than a beach blowout, and it’s why we don’t use plugs to make Slappas thongs.

Slappas are built to last. They’re the only pair of thongs you need and the only brand you can rely on. They’re the ultimate solution to prevent the dreaded beach blowouts and they’re designed with Aussies in mind.

We understand the importance of durability, especially when it comes to your footwear and that’s why our thongs are built to withstand the rough and tumble of beach life. Made from high-quality EVA material and designed with a single-mold between the straps and soles, Slappas are engineered to last.

There’s no more worrying about snapping a strap or the sole splitting after just a few wears. With Slappas, you get tough thongs that are ready to take on whatever you throw at them (or whatever you throw them at).

Slappas also feature an ergonomic design that supports your foot’s natural shape, providing comfort all day long and what sets Slappas apart from other thongs is our commitment to quality. We’re a small, family owned and operated business based in Darwin, and we take pride in crafting thongs that meet the highest standards. Each pair of Slappas is a testament to our dedication to providing the best for our fellow Aussies. When you slip into a pair of Slappas, you’re not just wearing thongs – you’re embracing a lifestyle that values durability, comfort, and the spirit of the Australian beach culture.

So next time you’re gearing up for a beach day, don’t settle for thongs that might let you down. Choose Slappas and avoid the dreaded beach blowout. With Slappas, you can stride confidently across the sand, knowing your thongs will keep up with your adventures. No more hobbling back to your car with a broken thong in hand. Just pure, uninterrupted enjoyment of the beach, the way it should be.

Leave the blowouts behind and step into Slappas.

Achilles tendonitis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which is a large tendon connecting the calf muscles to the back of the heel bone. This inflammation can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort in the affected area.

The Achilles tendon plays a crucial role in activities like walking, running, and jumping. When it is inflamed, these movements can become painful and challenging. Achilles tendonitis is often a result of overuse, improper footwear, or sudden increases in physical activity.

It’s important to address Achilles tendonitis symptoms because if left untreated, it can lead to more severe issues like tendon degeneration or tears. Continuous stress on the inflamed tendon may weaken it over time, increasing the risk of more serious injuries. Early intervention, which may include rest, ice, stretching exercises, and proper footwear, is crucial to manage the condition and prevent further damage to the Achilles tendon. Seeking medical advice is recommended for proper diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

Types of Achilles Tendonitis

Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

Insertional Achilles Tendonitis is a type of Achilles tendonitis that primarily affects the lower part of the tendon, where it attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus). In this condition, the inflammation and pain occur at the point where the tendon inserts into the back of the heel.

This type of tendonitis is often associated with bone spurs, which are bony protrusions that may develop at the insertion point. Insertional Achilles Tendonitis is commonly seen in individuals who engage in activities that repeatedly stress the tendon, such as running or jumping.

Non-insertional Achilles Tendonitis

Non-insertional Achilles Tendonitis is characterised by inflammation and degeneration of the middle portion of the Achilles tendon. Unlike insertional tendonitis, there is typically no involvement of the insertion point on the heel bone. This type of tendonitis is more common in younger, active individuals and is often related to overuse and microtears within the tendon.

Non-insertional Achilles Tendonitis may be associated with swelling, thickening of the tendon, and pain in the middle portion of the tendon, just above the heel. It is crucial to differentiate between these two types for proper diagnosis and to tailor an appropriate treatment plan for effective management.

Achilles Tendonitis Symptoms

Pain in the Back of the Heel

Individuals with Achilles Tendonitis symptoms often experience pain in the back of the heel, near the tendon. This pain is commonly described as a dull or sharp ache and may intensify during physical activities like walking, running, or climbing stairs. The discomfort may be more pronounced in the morning or after periods of inactivity. It’s essential to pay attention to any persistent heel pain, especially if it worsens with activity, as it could be an early sign of Achilles Tendonitis.

Difficulty Walking

Achilles Tendonitis symptoms can lead to difficulty walking, especially when the affected foot pushes off the ground during each step. The pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon may cause a noticeable limp, and individuals may find it challenging to engage in activities that require pushing off with the foot, such as running or jumping. Recognising and addressing this difficulty in walking early on is crucial to prevent further stress on the tendon and promote a faster recovery.

Swelling, Tenderness, and Warmth of the Achilles Tendon

Swelling, tenderness, and warmth around the Achilles tendon are common symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis. The affected area may appear visibly swollen, and there could be tenderness when touching or applying pressure to the tendon. The warmth is a result of the inflammatory process.

Monitoring for these signs is important as they indicate an ongoing inflammatory response. Early recognition of these symptoms is vital for prompt intervention, helping to prevent the progression of Achilles Tendonitis and reduce the risk of complications. Seeking medical advice for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan is recommended if these symptoms persist.

What Causes Achilles Tendonitis?

Overuse or Excessive Physical Activity

Engaging in activities that put repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon, such as running, jumping, or intense sports, can lead to overuse and contribute to the development of Achilles Tendonitis.

Improper Footwear

Wearing shoes with inadequate support, insufficient cushioning, or improper fit can increase the risk of Achilles Tendonitis. Footwear that does not provide proper arch support or places excessive strain on the Achilles tendon may contribute to the development of the condition.

Sudden Increase in Physical Activity

Rapidly increasing the intensity, duration, or frequency of physical activity, especially without proper conditioning or warm-up, can strain the Achilles tendon and lead to inflammation.

Tight or Weak Calf Muscles

Imbalances in the calf muscles, such as tightness or weakness, can affect the mechanics of the Achilles tendon. Tight calf muscles may increase the strain on the tendon, while weak muscles may not provide adequate support.

Age & Gender

Achilles Tendonitis is more common in active individuals, and age can be a factor. Middle-aged and older individuals may be more prone to the condition. Additionally, men are generally at a higher risk than women.

Foot Structure & Biomechanics

Certain foot structures or biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or high arches, can alter the normal load distribution on the Achilles tendon, making it more susceptible to stress and inflammation.

Medical Conditions & Medications

Conditions such as arthritis or certain medications, particularly fluoroquinolone antibiotics, may increase the risk of Achilles Tendonitis.

Inadequate Warm-up or Stretching:

Skipping warm-up exercises or neglecting proper stretching before physical activity can leave the Achilles tendon less prepared for the demands of exercise, making it more susceptible to injury.

Identifying and addressing these risk factors can help individuals reduce their chances of developing Achilles Tendonitis. Adopting proper warm-up routines, wearing appropriate footwear, and gradually increasing the intensity of physical activities are essential preventive measures. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional medical advice is recommended for a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

What are the risk factors for Achilles tendonitis?

Age:

Achilles Tendonitis is more commonly seen in individuals as they age. As people get older, their tendons may become less flexible and more prone to injury. The aging process can also lead to decreased blood supply to the tendons, making them more susceptible to inflammation and strain.

Bone Spurs:

Bone spurs are bony projections that may develop at the insertion point of the Achilles tendon on the heel bone. These spurs can cause irritation and inflammation, contributing to the development of Achilles Tendonitis. They are often associated with insertional Achilles Tendonitis, a specific type of the condition.

Gender:

Men are generally at a higher risk of developing Achilles Tendonitis compared to women. This gender difference may be due to various factors, including differences in muscle mass, strength, and biomechanics. Men often engage in activities or sports that put more stress on the Achilles tendon, increasing their susceptibility to the condition.

High Impact Sports or Activities:

Participation in high-impact sports or activities, such as running, basketball, or soccer, increases the risk of Achilles Tendonitis. The repetitive stress and strain on the Achilles tendon during these activities can lead to overuse, microtears, and inflammation.

Certain Medical Conditions:

Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis and psoriasis, can increase the risk of Achilles Tendonitis. These conditions may affect the health of the tendon or contribute to inflammation. Additionally, individuals with diabetes may be at a higher risk due to impaired blood flow and nerve function.

Obesity:

Excess body weight places additional stress on the Achilles tendon during activities like walking or running. This increased load can contribute to the development of Achilles Tendonitis, especially in individuals who are overweight or obese.

Physical Traits:

Biomechanical factors, such as having flat feet or high arches, can alter the normal mechanics of the foot and ankle, affecting the distribution of forces on the Achilles tendon. These physical traits may increase the risk of developing Achilles Tendonitis.

Poor Stretching or Warming Up Prior to Exercise:

Inadequate warm-up and stretching routines before engaging in physical activity can leave the Achilles tendon less prepared for the stress of exercise. Insufficient flexibility may contribute to strain and an increased risk of tendon injury.

Worn-Out Shoes:

Wearing shoes with worn-out soles or inadequate support can impact the biomechanics of the foot and contribute to Achilles Tendonitis. Proper footwear is crucial for maintaining the stability and proper alignment of the foot during activities.

Identifying and addressing these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of developing Achilles Tendonitis. Incorporating proper warm-up exercises, choosing appropriate footwear, and managing underlying medical conditions are essential for maintaining tendon health and preventing injury.

How Arch Support Thongs Can Help

Arch support thongs, also known as orthotic or supportive flip-flops, can be beneficial in preventing and managing Achilles Tendonitis foot support. Providing the necessary support and reducing strain on the Achilles tendon. Here are some key benefits:

1. Improved Arch Support:
   • Arch support thongs are designed with built-in arch support, which helps maintain the natural alignment of the foot. This added support can reduce excessive pronation (rolling inward) of the foot, which, in turn, minimises stress on the Achilles tendon.
2. Shock Absorption:
   • Many arch support thongs come with cushioned soles or shock-absorbing materials. This feature helps absorb the impact forces during walking or other weight-bearing activities, reducing the strain on the Achilles tendon and providing additional comfort.
3. Even Distribution of Pressure:
   • Arch support thongs are designed to distribute pressure evenly across the foot. This helps prevent localised pressure points on the Achilles tendon, reducing the risk of irritation and inflammation.
4. Stabilisation of the Foot and Ankle:
   • Proper arch support contributes to the stabilisation of the foot and ankle. This stability is crucial in minimising excessive movement that could otherwise place additional stress on the Achilles tendon.
5. Promotion of Proper Biomechanics:
   • Arch support thongs encourage proper biomechanics by supporting the natural structure and function of the foot. This can help individuals with high arches or flat feet maintain a more neutral foot position, reducing strain on the Achilles tendon.
6. Reduction of Overpronation:
   • Overpronation, where the foot rolls excessively inward during walking or running, can contribute to Achilles Tendonitis. Arch support thongs help control overpronation, mitigating the associated strain on the Achilles tendon.

Find Relief from Achilles Tendonitis with Slappa’s Thongs

Slappa’s Thongs with arch support stand out as an excellent footwear choice for both men and women seeking relief from Achilles Tendonitis. Their specific features, including arch support, cushioned soles, and stability, make them a supportive and comfortable option for daily wear. However, it’s always advisable to consult with healthcare professionals for personalised advice on managing and treating Achilles Tendonitis and to ensure that the chosen footwear aligns with individual needs and conditions.

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes, becomes inflamed. The exact cause of plantar fasciitis is often multifactorial, and several factors can contribute to its development. Here are some common causes and risk factors:

1. Overuse or Overloading
2. Foot Structure and Mechanics
3. Improper Footwear
4. Tight Achilles Tendon
5. Occupational Factor
6. Tight Calf Muscles

For plantar fasciitis, it’s recommended to choose footwear with good arch support and cushioning. Look for sandals, thongs or flip-flops with contoured footbeds and proper arch support. Brands like Birkenstock and Slappa’s Thongs offer supportive options.

If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis or are experiencing heel pain, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist or orthopaedic specialist, for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Treatment may include rest, ice, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and, in some cases, medications or physical therapy.

Why Are Sandals Good for Plantar Fasciitis?

Sandals, thongs, or flip-flops can be beneficial for plantar fasciitis for several reasons, providing relief and comfort. Here are some key benefits:

Arch Support: Quality sandals for plantar fasciitis often come with built-in arch support, helping to alleviate strain on the plantar fascia.

Shock Absorption: Cushioned sandals absorb shock during walking, reducing impact on the heel and offering relief to individuals with plantar fasciitis.

Pressure Distribution: Properly designed sandals distribute pressure evenly across the foot, preventing excessive stress on the plantar fascia ligament.

Comfortable Material: The best plantar fasciitis sandals use materials such as EVA foam which starts firm but softens as you mould into them keeping their shape and support, ensuring comfort while providing necessary support to the foot.

Adjustable Straps: Sandals, thongs or flip-flops with adjustable straps allow for a customized fit, accommodating individual foot shapes and providing a secure hold for better support. Slappa’s Thongs toe piece and straps can be adjusted by supporting and giving them a gentle massage stretch.

Breathability: Plantar fasciitis sandals or orthotic for Plantar Fasciitis often feature breathable materials, promoting air circulation and keeping the feet cool, which can be particularly beneficial during the summer. 

Ease of Use: Sandals are convenient for slipping on and off, reducing strain associated with bending over, making them suitable for those with plantar fasciitis.

When searching for sandals for plantar fasciitis, consider reputable brands like Slappa’s Thongs, which prioritise comfort and support. These sandals cater specifically to individuals with plantar fasciitis, offering a combination of style and therapeutic benefits.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Sandals

When selecting sandals or footwear for plantar fasciitis, prioritize comfort and support. Look for orthotic sandals for plantar fasciitis or footwear designed with orthotic features, arch support, and cushioning to alleviate strain on the plantar fascia. Consider adjustable straps for a customized fit and opt for materials that offer both durability and breathability. Taking these factors into account ensures you find sandals that promote foot health while addressing the specific needs associated with plantar fasciitis.

Arch support

Arch support is crucial when choosing sandals, especially for individuals dealing with plantar fasciitis. The arch is a fundamental part of the foot’s structure, providing support and stability. In the context of plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, proper arch support becomes even more significant.

The benefits of arch support in sandals for plantar fasciitis include alleviating strain on the plantar fascia, distributing weight more evenly across the foot, and promoting proper foot alignment. These features contribute to reducing pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis and other foot problems.

Slappa’s Thongs are just footwear for plantar fasciitis. Here some of the other foot problems Slappa’s can help treat.

When searching for the best sandals for plantar fasciitis, look for options specifically designed with orthotic support. Orthotic sandals provide targeted support to the arch, helping to maintain the natural alignment of the foot and reducing stress on the plantar fascia. This can make a significant difference, especially during the summer when lightweight and breathable footwear is essential.

For women with plantar fasciitis, there are specialized sandals tailored to their needs, combining style with effective arch support. These sandals prioritize both comfort and fashion, catering to those with plantar fasciitis without compromising on aesthetics.

Choosing sandals with proper arch support is essential for managing plantar fasciitis. Opting for orthotic sandals designed for this condition ensures a supportive and comfortable experience, making them ideal summer shoes for those dealing with plantar fasciitis.

Comfort

Comfort is a crucial aspect when selecting footwear, particularly in the case of sandals, thongs, or flip-flops. Opting for comfortable options not only ensures a pleasant walking experience but also enhances versatility for various occasions. Imagine slipping into a pair of well-cushioned sandals – perfect for a casual day out, a beach stroll, or even a laid-back summer gathering.

Whether you’re exploring a new city, relaxing by the pool, or attending a casual outdoor event, comfortable sandals provide the support needed to keep you going. This is especially essential during warmer seasons, where the weather encourages open-toe footwear. For those concerned about conditions like plantar fasciitis, selecting summer sandals or shoes with proper arch support becomes crucial. These options not only prioritize comfort but also contribute to foot health.Now, let’s talk about travel. Imagine embarking on a journey where you need versatile footwear that adapts to different environments. Comfortable sandals become your reliable companions, easily transitioning from sightseeing in urban landscapes to exploring sandy beaches. They are lightweight, easy to pack, and suitable for a variety of settings.

In essence, the comfort of sandals extends beyond mere relaxation – it becomes a practical choice for any occasion, making them indispensable for those who value both style and well-being, especially during the warm summer months.

Material & Durability

The choice of material is crucial when selecting sandals, thongs, or flip-flops, especially for individuals dealing with plantar fasciitis. Opting for supportive materials is essential in providing comfort and alleviating foot pain. EVA foam, known for its lightweight and shock-absorbing properties, is a standout option for those with plantar fasciitis.

EVA foam cushions the foot, reducing impact on the plantar fascia and promoting a more comfortable walking experience. Its flexibility and softness contribute to improved shock absorption, crucial for individuals seeking relief from the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Additionally, EVA foam is water-resistant, making it suitable for various environments, from beach outings to everyday wear.

Choosing sandals with EVA foam provides a combination of support, comfort, and versatility, making them an excellent option for individuals managing plantar fasciitis. The best brands will start firm but as you mould into them they will soften but not flatten, keeping their shape and support. 

How to Care and Store Your Sandals?

To care for sandals, thongs, and flip-flops, follow these general tips:

Clean Regularly: Wipe them down with a damp cloth or sponge to remove dirt and grime. For fabric or leather, use appropriate cleaning products.

Avoid Moisture: Keep them dry to prevent deterioration. If they get wet, allow them to air-dry thoroughly.

Store Properly: Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving them in a hot car or damp environment.

Rotate Usage: If possible, rotate between multiple pairs to reduce wear on a single pair and extend their overall lifespan.

Check for Damage: Regularly inspect for signs of wear, loose straps, or damaged soles. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Choose Appropriate Activities: Use sandals designed for specific activities. Heavy-duty sandals for hiking, and casual ones for everyday use.

By following these steps, you can maintain the condition of your sandals, thongs, or flip-flops, ensuring they stay comfortable and functional for a longer time.

Why Choose Slappa’s Thongs for Plantar Fasciitis

Slappa’s Thongs with arch support are considered an ideal solution for people with plantar fasciitis due to several key features.

Slappa’s Thongs are designed with enhanced arch support, providing crucial alignment for individuals with plantar fasciitis. This support helps alleviate strain on the plantar fascia ligament. The orthotic design offers a contoured footbed that mimics the natural shape of the foot. This can contribute to improved foot stability and reduced stress on the plantar fascia. They also have a slight ridge around the outside of the thong, this help support and hold your feet in and stop pronation.

The use of high-quality, comfortable materials in Slappa’s Thongs ensures that both men and women with plantar fasciitis can wear them for extended periods without exacerbating their condition. These sandals provide a combination of support and versatility, suitable for various activities. This allows individuals with plantar fasciitis to maintain an active lifestyle without compromising on comfort.

While individual preferences may vary, these features make Slappa’s Thongs a favourable choice for those seeking relief from plantar fasciitis discomfort. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice based on your specific condition.

Autumn is officially here and in most states and territories that means cooler weather. For some this is a welcome reprieve from what has been a particularly hot summer, particularly in the Southern states; for others it’s an opportunity to chase the warmth and travel.

So here are our 6 top tips for comfortable air travel to warmer climates.

1. Wear comfortable clothes

If you want to be able to sleep on the flight, try to wear clothes that are as close to pyjamas as possible and don’t forget your Slappa’s!

2. Escape from the noise

For long flights, noise-cancelling headphones are a must. If you don’t own noise-cancelling headphones and don’t want to invest in them yet, then bring earplugs.

3. Evade the light

If you want to sleep during the flight, bring a sleeping mask. Simply putting on your headset and sleeping mask can also mentally prepare you to sleep during the flight.

4. Drink enough water

While on the flight, it’s important to hydrate, hydrate and hydrate. Stay clear of alcohol and tea or coffee. Alcohol impairs your ability to sleep, as do caffeinated drinks. Moreover, these beverages dehydrate, while your body will need the exact opposite. So grab a large bottle of water after airport security, and try to finish it by the end of your flight.

5. Hydrate your skin

The air quality in the cabin can be detrimental to your skin. Before you start cracking up everywhere, be gentle with your body and apply some cream on your face, lips, hands – wherever you’d put some extra if you decided to go for a walk on a winter’s day.

6. Mindset

Stop fretting about the time lost in travel and use it as an opportunity to enjoy the time you get to yourself. Don’t consider your travel time as a useless vacuum in time and space, but fill it with activities you don’t get to do too often at home. Take some snacks you enjoy, read, meditate, listen to some music, prepare your senses for your next destination – simply shift your mindset and reframe your thoughts so that you can truly appreciate your personal time during the flight.

Travel safe this Autumn and remember to put comfort over fashion whilst travelling – your feet will love you for it!

Flip Flops On The Runway

We at Slappa’s Thongs have always felt flip flops were catwalk worthy but this year they were officially debuted on the runway at New York Fashion Week!

Marie Clare stylist Monica Russell predicted in July this year;
“According to our fave street style stars the casual footwear once reserved for the dash from the car to the beach has now made it’s way to the fashion circuit!”

Then just this month InStyle’s Senior Digital Fashion Editor, Isabelle Truman, confirmed it in online article. She wrote; “Despite thongs (flip flops, sandals, slip-ons) being a wardrobe staple Down Under, the humble rubber shoe is often reserved for beach days or quick dashes to the supermarket. But when fashion girls Olivia Palermo and the Olsen Twins were spotted wearing flip flops with every day outfits it was clear a trend was born. Of course it was only a matter of time before thongs would hit the runway with Dion Lee taking it upon himself to ensure an Aussie Designer was first.”

We for one are so excited that our fashion-forward footwear are gracing the feet of celebs.

Recreate The Look

With flip flops having made the successful transition from streets to runway we thought we’d take a closer look at the catwalk models and celebrities who are blazing the path and show you how to recreate their style with clothes and accessories from local and online retailers. Enjoy!

The Look: This gorgeous colour-pop look featuring the former fashion faux pas was shown off at Dion Lee’s New York Fashion Week show, where the designer’s spring/summer 2019 collection was revealed to homegrown attendees such as Bambi Northwood-Blyth and Jess Gomes.

To Recreate: Pair a bright blue jacket like this one from ebay.com.au (great options also available from luulla.com and dhgate.com) with a black leather backpack – we love this one from Kate Spade – and a pair of Black Slappa’s Thongs.

The Look: This is another striking look from Dion Lee who said of the collection; “The Australian lifestyle has always been a strong source of inspiration for me. We integrated such a quintessential Australian footwear style in with the overall collection. They are such an iconic Australian look, we loved being able to include them in our NYFW show.”

To Recreate: You’ll need a classic white summery dress such as this gorgeous Chantilly Dress from ShowPo then add a few elegant jewellery pieces like a bracelet or necklace from The Pearl Galleria. Finish with a pair of White Slappa’s Thongs.

The Look: Straight from the streets of  New York this funky modern animal print look features bold yellow accessories with a subtle splash of colour in the form of a clutch.

To Recreate: Any eye catching animal print will work; we love this stylish Leopard Print Wrap Front Maxi from The Iconic for example, add a pair of yellow sunglasses, a “moc croc” embossed clutch from Pearl Galleria and pop on a pair of Yellow Slappa’s to complete the look.

The Look: We love the way fashionista Hillary Duff pulls off this effortless look while out and about in between filming her latest show. Navy is a popular colour this season; try mixing it up with statement pieces in bold colours like red or yellow.

To Recreate: Find a 3/4 sleeve navy dress you love (this one pictured from The Iconic) then add a black oversize crocodile bag like this one from David Jones. Finish with a pair of Navy Slappa’s.

No matter where you’re headed this Spring/Summer season slip on a pair of Slappa’s and make every street your own personal runway!

And don’t forget all orders over $100 get FREE express post shipping Australia wide.

Thongs on!

National Family Week

This week is National Family Week in Australia; an annual celebration of families that aims to recognise and appreciate the vital role that families play in Australian society. They ask us to take time this week to reflect on the critical role that families play in teaching, supporting and nurturing children, especially as they grow.

Since Slappa’s Thongs is a proud family owned and run business, I thought I’d take time this week to do just that; reflect on how our family unit supports and encourages each other and those in our community.

A Family Business

Our family consists of myself (Denise), my husband Roger, and our two children Bernie (13) and Kaylee (11). Then there’s our gorgeous little daschund Frankie who is nearly 8 now.

When I first started Slappa’s Thongs I never imagined how much a part of the family it would become, but over the years it has not only played an integral part in our family’s livelihood but in our growth as individuals and a family unit.

It began in 2010 with me juggling a new business and two small children. By 2015 the business and workload had grown so much that Roger joined the company full-time as well. And as they got older Bernie and Kaylee began helping out in small ways to earn a bit of pocket money, usually so they could save up and buy things for their bike.

Even our doggie Frankie joined the crew as head of security!!!

Bernie and Kaylee are now on the payroll working a few hours a week learning how the business runs, getting vital skills and understanding how employment works.

They both now have their own Tax File Number which will be with them for life. They are learning how to fill in a time book, read their payslip and best of all learning how to save their money. The biggest learning curve for them both is the commitment they need to make, being responsible, time management, making sure they do the job efficiently and correctly.

They really enjoy being a part of the business and we love being able to share the ups and downs with them and provide so many opportunities to grow and learn. In fact we’ve often found that they are even able to teach us a few things!

It’s a great feeling having us all involved and working towards a common goal making it truly a “family business”.

Our Family And The Cycling Community

As a family we all love cycling. We all ride socially and race road and mountain bikes. Cycling is our way of doing something together, exercising and having fun. We have all made many new friends and our cycling groups are like one big extended family.

Now that the kids are older and at competition age it’s become quite common for us to travel for cycling and the kids race interstate a few times a year. Recently we had a family holiday in Queensland to see the Track Cycling at the Commonwealth Games it was extremely exciting and the kids learnt a lot from watching the athletes from all other Commonwealth countries.

Last year, Roger participated in the Tour de Timor which was a gruelling race through East Timor mountains. Roger needed to train 4-5 times a week for 12 months to be fit enough to compete. As a family we needed to make some allowances so he had the time to be able to work and get his training done. While he was there he donated hundreds of Slappa’s Thongs to Encouragement House.

The Cycling community is a fantastic group to be involved with and it is great for us to know the kids will be looked after well when they go away for racing. Bernie (aged 13) competed in a Road Race in the Barossa Valley, South Australia this April. It was the first time he had flown on his own, and he handled it very well. A lovely family in Adelaide picked him up from the airport and he stayed with them for the 4 days of competition. They made him feel like one of their family and made sure he felt comfortable and supported. As a mother it meant a lot to me that my son was being well cared for while away from his family. It was a good opportunity for him to learn to do things on his own without Mum and Dad’s help. These trips have definitely boosted his confidence and prepared him for when he leaves home for work or further studies.

My family’s next challenge will be to help me make time to train for the Katherine to Darwin Ride I am doing soon! And in October I will be walking the Inca Trail in Peru.

Teaching Family Values

Growing up in a big family and in a country town my parents always had extra kids staying over and they were always the first ones to put up their hands to take someone in.

Roger and I have always done the same and have offered a place to stay for many people over the years (include Terra Roams; the first woman to walk solo and unsupported around Australia, and 18 year old Jack Totino; who rode around Australia in 2017 raising money for FightMND).

We’ve made some amazing friends doing this and it gave us an opportunity to instil the value of helping others in Bernie and Kaylee too.

National Families Week is a time to celebrate with your family, make contact with your extended family and friends, and share in the enjoyment of family activities within the wider community. It is a time to celebrate the meaning of family and to make the most of family life.

Take some time this week to reflect on your family. Thank you for reading about mine.

Thongs on!

Denise

Post Exercise Recovery Tips

What you do before and after any form of exercise seriously impacts the speed and quality of your recovery. While training may seem like the most important aspect, aches or pains caused by incorrect recovery can be just as crippling as any injury caused during exercise. Here are some easy tips to ensure you recover correctly.

Foam rolling

Self-stretching or myofascial release, also known as “foam rolling”, is a form of self-massage used to release muscle tightness or target trigger points which can be performed using a foam roller. By applying pressure to specific points on your body you are able to aid in the recovery of muscles and assist in returning them to normal function.

Compression

Compression garments are designed to increase blood flow to areas of your body and can improve performance as well as shortening recovery time. Studies have shown that wearing compression garments post exercise reduces pooling in extremities and can increase the oxygen uptake in muscles and reduce blood lactate levels.

Correct Footwear

Following any form of exercise that places pressure on your feet, supportive footwear is crucial. The muscles, plantar fascia and ligaments that make up the arch of your foot work hard during running or any weight bearing exercise. During the hours after exercise these tissues may be fatigued and will benefit from extra support and cushioning. To avoid overloading of these structures, correct support can assist your feet to relax and recover. If you can’t wait to kick your runners off, consider an orthotic designed sandal or Thongs for comfort combined with therapeutic support.

For more information, contact your health care professional.

These great recovery tips have been provided by our guest blogger Jessica and the team at Lara Physiotherapy Health Network.

For any free advice you can follow them on facebook https://www.facebook.com/laraphysiotherapyhealthnetwork/?rf=197853906916070

or check out their website http://laraphysiotherapy.com/

Slappa’s Thongs are available from Lara Physiotherapy Health Network or you can buy online https://www.slappasthongs.com.au/buy-slappas

Work life balance is very important to me. My passion is my family, friends and Frank, my dog –  you’ve seen him starring in our 7^th birthday video.

Life changed for our family when I took a simple idea – thongs with arch support – and built it into a successful business that now allows our family to have financial freedom.

I had a young family at home when I decided to chase my dream of being my own boss.  Who knew that starting a market stall would become our livelihood. A family business that is now employing both myself and my husband full time.

Adapting  to new roles

My husband became Mr Mum combining looking after the kids, working part time and making sure we got through every day. My children had to learn to adapt to Mum not always being home.

We have managed to bring our children up with no childcare or grandparents (as they live 3000km away) which doesn’t give you much time to yourself, but these are the things you need to do and hey, there are many families doing just the same.

Self-care is a priority

Walking Frank each morning is great exercise and my thinking time.

As a family, we go bike riding every week and we now all ride competitively. I’m actively involved in the Darwin Cycling Club and Cycling NT as a Board Member and Team Manager for Junior Development.

Although life is not without its challenges, I consider myself to have been very fortunate and so always seek to pay it forward;  to give back wherever and whenever possible. Community spirit is very important to our business and our family.

My recipe for success

Learning to be patient, planning your vision and following your business plan is a great way to achieve the growth of the business while also maintaining your sanity at home.

Through sport and business, we’ve learnt that as a team, we can achieve so much more when we are all pulling together for a common goal. Each has a part to play in reaching the goal and then we all get to celebrate the win together. The same goes for your family, no teamwork means there’s no win to celebrate.

In both business and family life, we need to encourage and develop each other to achieve their own potential. This is best done by listening, setting clear expectations, providing the tools and then trusting your team to get on with the job or your family to maintain a normal and healthy lifestyle.

The proof is in the pudding

I now have the social (and financial) proof that my careful and methodical approach was not only strategic but highly successful for my business whilst maintaining a good family bond.

Sharing my business journey via the Telstra Business Women’s Awards was about showing other women that they can achieve whatever they set out to do, and without sacrificing their family life (most of the time).

It hasn’t all been rosy but it was what we decided was best for our family and we have been successful.

I am a woman who had no tertiary education, experience or expertise in manufacturing and importing.  I can now say I have fulfilled my dream and become a successful Entrepreneur or Mompreneur.

Life Rewards The Courageous

Thongs On!

Denise

Please don’t strike me down with a lightning bolt for misquoting the bible!  I’m not getting a God complex.  Promise!

I’m just a humble thong creator.  All things thongs are my passion though.  You know this because you kindly follow my blog, and/or the Slappa’s Thongs newsletters and many of you are with us on Facebook.  Thanks for being there, reading, commenting and sharing ❤

So, yes, we all know Denise is thong-mad, but maybe you don’t know why …

Many people think I got this way because Slappa’s Thongs is my business.  And that after years and years of thong immersion, I’ve become an incurably thong-manic.  I’m not denying that’s the case, though the truth, about my condition, is embedded in my sole (yes that’s spell-checked correctly).

And it’s why I started Slappa’s …

Years ago, I was selling a brand of thongs which looked good – and for those with no feet foibles – felt good enough, so long as you didn’t expect Birkenstock comfort.

By feet foibles, I mean everything from soles that needed arch support, to feet with serious issues like Plantar Fasciitis, heel pain, or just tired feet.

People started asking me for a thong that could really deliver.  Something that anyone could wear, each, and every day, with the comfort of a Birkenstock (except if you wear your Birkies in the water the cork gets waterlogged!), the support of a podiatry product and of course, it had to look great too.

Hmmm, I thought, the thongs I’m selling don’t do any of that, they’re just thongs.  And I couldn’t find any other thongs that met that wish list.

Plus, I had a motivation of my own to find a solution to what thong lovers were asking for.  I needed arch support too, but couldn’t find an affordable product that looked and felt good.  After having my children and not having good footwear, I also started suffering from sciatica.

There’s nothing that puts you in your customers’ shoes faster than sharing your customers’ pain!

So, I started designing and producing the thong of all thongs.  It’s still an Australian owned family business.  I don’t just stand by my product, I literally stand on my product! Every day.  The arch support in Slappa’s has been so good that I only really notice my sciatica when I am not wearing Slappa’s.  They keep me aligned.

Why do you need to know about Other Thongs?

What I really want you to know, is that some Other Thongs can easily be mistaken for Slappa’s Thongs.  They may look just as pretty.  Exact same colours sometimes.  But the good looks are only skin deep.

If you want an affordable, good looking pair of thongs that will last and love your feet to their soles (and back), make sure to check that they’re Slappa’s Thongs. Does it really matter? Hell yes! And here’s why it matters for you …

The material Other Thongs are made from can be too soft, so they flatten and lose their support and are more prone to shrinking.  If you’ve ever worn Other Thongs to walk across stones and felt them (the stones not the thongs!), you’ll know what I mean.  This can also lead to spreading the foot.  I’m not a fan of any part of my body spreading.

If thong material is too soft they won’t support the arch enough, allowing your foot to roll in.  Which is bad for your feet, posture and over-all body alignment and will need correcting.  Wearing a pair of Slappa’s will help 😉.

In my profession as a physiotherapist I am concerned about the “foundation” of my patients. In other words their feet, the arches and the surface on which they stand and walk. Slappas thongs are ideal in the tropics where many people walk bare footed on tiles in the heat. Collapsed arches are very common under these environmental conditions and many patients complain of foot pain from the hard tiles. Slappas thongs are soft yet supportive of both the medial and transverse foot arches. The outer raised edge of the Slappas thongs keeps the foot exactly where the arch support is required. I love the fact that they are made of recycled material. Slappas thongs are approximately a third of the price of other orthopedic sandals and they are perfect for the very wet weather we have in the top end of Australia. I recommend Slappas thongs to many of my patients and I wear them myself.

Alice Thorn Acupuncture & Physiotherapy 

After having your Other Thongs a while, have you ever found your feet flapping around in them? Not a good look unless you’re a penguin in Happy Feet.  That’s because the toe piece is not as strong as Slappa’s material, so it can easily stretch – and break!

Other Thong straps can be made too loose to start with, giving your feet another lack of support issue.  Like falling flat on your face maybe … ☹.

A firmer material to start with, like Slappa’s, is better for the feet, posture and your whole body alignment. Plus, your Slappa’s Thongs will last longer. Better value for money. Better quality.

I first came across your product in Darwin at the Mindil Markets. I can’t remember the actual price at the time, but I do remember thinking it was unrealistic – way too expensive! You could go to K Mart and get a set of thongs for $5.00, what were Slappa’s thinking?

As my darling and I wander around the markets, I started to reconsider. The product must be better than the original Japanese Safety Boot. It has arch support, the straps can’t pull out, it is just a matter of how well they last?

I bought a pair; I have not been more impressed with a single product for a long time. It has the extra support and it works, they are much more comfortable than a simple safety boot. The colour combination was/is good. They have lasted – (better than I would ever have believed) – I live in Alice Springs and 2 years later they are thin as, but still working. For anything to survive 2 years in Alice Springs is a statement in itself. I wear them everywhere and I mean everywhere! For anyone who is into Japanese safety boots (and even if you are not) Slappa’s are hard to beat!

Wonderful product.  –Rick | Customer (NT)

Some Other Thongs have the soles glued onto the thong, so if you get them wet the glue perishes and they fall apart. I’m shocked at some leading brand name thongs and ortho products that do this. Especially the price they charge for them. You’d have to have rocks (ooh, does that rhyme with something …?!) in your head to part with that much money for that kind of ‘quality’.

Check out what some of our Stockist say

April 1 at 11:04am ·

What an ethos and a stockist of Slappa’s Thongs. Sole Therapy Podiatrists believe that through the correct support and treatment of your feet you will transform your life and live at your greatest potential.

Home | Sole Therapy

At  SOLE THERAPY, we teach you ways to love your body from the sole up.

WHAT WE DO

We are experts in biomechanics and believe that through the correct support and treatment of your feet you will transform your life and live at your greatest potential.

What’s next at Slappa’s Thongs

Exciting new stuff! Yay!! When? What? My lips are zipped. For now.  But here’s a heads up:

If you have a favourite in the current Slappa’s range, grab an extra pair now, before they run out the door!   Check out the specials on now until 26^th April.  You might be able to snare your Slappa’s size.

Have a Happy Slappa’s Easter!

Thongs On!

Denise

One of the things that we Territorians love about living in the Top End is our outdoors lifestyle unique to this terrific tropical Territory.

We have some of the most un-spoilt natural beauty spots in Australia, many of which are ocean and freshwater locations which provide some of the best fishing you could hope for.

And Slappa’s make great fishing footwear!

Slappa’s Thongs have been sponsors of the Darwin Flyrodders running two of Australia’s premier Fly fishing competitions the Freshwater Open and the Saltwater Challenge and this year will be no different – Slappa’s is on board 😊!

Sadly, I can’t say the same of one of the Darwin Flyrodders during a recent fishing expedition ☹. Thanks, Matty & BC, and sincere condolences to you BC, for sharing this tragic lost at sea story …

R.I.P. Green/Blue Size 12 Slappa

… a small story sent in by one of our guys that unfortunately lost a Slappa …

This I can do with one slapper.

Unfortunately, there was a major catastrophe with the other falling overboard somewhere around the Croker Islands, (Slapper Overboard, Missing In Action SOB MIA).

Searched all over the sea with a number of boats looking for a Green/Blue size 12 Slapper, little Slapper in a massive ocean, only after many hours of searching I had to admit the worst and call of the search. Burial at sea ):

Cheers, BC

As you can see, they’re a fun bunch, check out their Facebook page – some spectacular photos there like this one below of Corroboree.

The DFRs are hosting the 2017 Territory Freshwater Fly Fishing Open in the scenic Mary River System on the 29th & 30th April 2017.

There’s a great Early Bird special for bookings paid before 3rd April.

The nomination form is here.

Besides great fishing in a spectacular spot you get this with your entry fee:

• Fishing shirt
• Free camping at Corroboree
• Park Tavern
• Catered dinner Saturday night
• Finger food at Sunday
• Presentation

For anyone who’s lost a Slappa’s overboard, you can reorder here 😉 …

Thongs On!

Denise

Did you think I had illusions of grandeur with that title?

Have those Slappa’s folk invented some way to morph the humble thong into an actual shoe?   The kind you can wear for any occasion … well yes, we have, pretty much!

That may sound ambitious, since an occasion can be anything from fine dining, race day, clubbing, a wedding, Christmas Day, Valentine’s Day …  Oh, here’s some V day love from us to you since I am writing this blog on Valentine’s Day …

We girls like to dress up to look our best on a special occasion and for most of us that means slipping off our feet-lovin’ Slappa’s and shoe-horning our tootsies into a pair of killer heals.   Killer being the operative word!   Cos not too many hours later, we’re weary of wearing them and our feet are killing us.   How many occasions have you thought of cutting short, or spent sitting the dance out, just because your feet are screaming get me out of here! As in, out of these here heals.

So, have we got a Slappa’s solution for you?

Yes!

A reminder that our ripper rainbow selection really does have an awesome alternative to tootsie torture for every occasion. Like Race Day. You don’t want to flag before the finish line!

Here’s how you can colour co-ordinate any outfit with a pair of Slappa’s, right down to the fine detail of all your accessories, including your handbag and headgear.

If you’re dressed up in your wedding guest finery and flagging after a long reception, just lose the hat and heels and party on through the night in a set of stylish Slappa’s.

You’ll still look – and feel – amazing.

Dancing Queen here I come!

Speaking of weddings, what about the Bride?

Slappa’s bridal white thongs can carry off the most exciting day of your life in complete comfort once you’re ready to ditch your heels.

You’ll look just a perfectly pretty on your day of hearts and flowers …

If you’re opting for a less formal beach wedding, you want to sear your soul to your soul-mate, not sear the soles of your feet!

Barefoot is romantic.   Hopping across hot sand like a lobster on a barbie – not so much 😉

Whether you’re after wedding white or fancy frock fabulousness, there’s a pair of Slappa’s waiting to get loved-up with your feet.

Hope you’re having a fantastic Feb!

Denise

January – the peak of our Aussie summer and so, peak thong fashion time. It’s hot, hot, hot and there’s no better way to keep those twinkle toes feeling cool and better still – looking cool!

Take a peak at some of these pretty as a picture fashioned-up feet rockin’ their Slappa’s …people are so clever! Pretty polish, anklets, a bit of bling or a ribbon and viola!

How you decorate your Slappa’s is limited only by your imagination and creative talent. Popular in the fashion stakes are the brown and white Slappa’s being colours that women say they wear with dresses and skirts as they are more dressy.

Tassie Report

Well the Slappa’s crew had a great Christmas and New Year – hope our seasonal wishes for you came true and that you had a wonderful time.

Tassie was great for our family and I loved the R & R time. Both our kids were competing in the Under 13’s Cycling and unlike many other sports, boys and girls compete together.

This was Kaylee’s first year in the Under 13’s.  She was one of the youngest in her age group and the only girl. It was pretty hard going but she placed 3rd in 2 events and will be one to look out for next year. Bernie placed 2nd or 3rd in most of his races, just pipped at the post a couple of times for 1st place.

There is money to be won in the races and all money won by the kids goes into a kitty shared by all the team.

There were 8 in our team from Darwin and on their day off the winnings paid a trip to Tazmazia and bought us all lunch at Banjo’s Bakery.

The team was very successful and after our fun day out they still have enough money to buy 2 aero helmets for all the kids to use when competing in sprint competions. They are also going to put some money towards buying sporting goods to give to the kids in Timor.

Back on Deck

We all came back ready to hit the ground running and we’ve had to burn rubber to keep up with the deluge of orders from our customers and wholesalers.

If you’re anywhere near Slappa’s HQ you might see some multi-coloured Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam on the bitumen – that’s how fast we’re moving – leaving Slappa’s tracks! (Not rubber – we don’t make the comfiest thongs out of that stuff!)

So, what’s next?

Yeah, Australia Day! Yay!!

If you haven’t got yourself thonged up ready for the legendary Aussie Day barbie, you know who to call!

Lime Green and yellow Slappa’s are currenty on sale for the bargain price of $30 per pair.

Have a great one!

Warmest wishes,

Denise

PS If you need thongs for Australia Day order now and get them in time for your Aussie celebration! You can view all the zany colours we have featured on this blog here

With new sellers and many of our sellers having their own Facebook pages, I reckon there’ll be more than a few first time Slappa’s wearers around the beach and barbie this summer.

We even had a Facebook post last month of a pair of Slappa’s Thongs in the Sahara Desert!

Thanks to our lovely customers who took photos, making Slappa’s a part of their travel experience.  We love to see where our thongs got to on your globe-trotting feet.

Thanks for sharing your thong-ventures with us!

Read on to see which of your adventures we’ve shared here plus a great idea of how to get every Slappa’s Thongs colour in your Christmas stocking

Big shout out to you fabulous Facebook followers and friends

Thanks to you, our  Slappa’s Thongs’ Facebook page reached over 11,000 Slappa’s friends and followers!

Besides the Sahara Desert, you’ve taken your thongs to Mystery Island, cruising on Legend of The Seas, from Vietnam to Koh Samui – you sure get around in them! Thanks for sharing and posting on Facebook with us; great stories like these from….

Sue Gates Hubby & I took our Slappers on Country Cruisin on Legend of the Seas last week….this pic was taken on beautiful Mystery Island.

Rachel Higgs From Vietnam yesterday to Koh Samui today…Most comfortable footwear I’ve travelled with. Just glad I bought 2 pairs. With Plantar Fasciitis and now odeama, they truly are my life saver.

Fibromyalgia & Fasciopathy Friendly

Rachel’s post meant a lot to me too, because apart being fashionable, fun and comfy, I designed Slappa’s Thongs with built-in Arch Support, great for Plantar Fasciitis (or fasciopathy), heel pain and generally relaxing tired feet. So, posts from Slappa’s Facebook friends who have found some relief from Fibromyalgia & Fasciopathy wearing their Slappa’s Thongs, is the best ever news to me.

Janice Jack I bought some in Alice Springs and after wearing them for a couple of days I went back for another pair. I have trouble with planter facsiitis and they are the best things I have come across. I wore them for 3 months while travelling and had no trouble at all.

Tina Robinson I have fibromyalgia and suffer with a lot of pain in my feet. Wearing slapper thongs eliminates most of my pain. Wish they came in ‘winter’ styles to for cold Melbourne winters. Mine have lasted 2 years now, getting thin from wear (almost every day) so need to restock.

Sharryn Smith Me! 💗💖💙Better than ANY expensive orthotic👏👏👏

Thanks for sharing ladies …

Thong Throng

December is shaping up super busy for us, with loads of Facebook friends asking where they can find their nearest Slappa’s Thongs stockist. Seems like everyone is thronging to their nearest thong seller.

Our Slappa’s Thongs Facebook team have been answering each of your “where’s my nearest stockist” enquiries.

Whether you’re a seasoned Slappa’s or a newbie Slappa’s wearer, you might like to see these Facebook pages of some of our super Slappa’s sellers, who may be a bit more local to you:

Splash of Colour by Fran (Airlie Beach and Bowen)
Slappa’s Thongs Geelong
Slappa’s Thongs Northern Vic
Slappa’s Thongs Hervey Bay
Slappa’s Thongs Eyre Peninsula
Slappa’s Thongs Sunraysia
Slappa’s Thongs Brighton SA

Plus, there’s a full list of all our seller’s locations on our website

Where we don’t have a super Slappa’s seller near you, you can always order on-line from us – just click on this link.

Make your Slappa’s Santa list!

One of our Facebook friends likes this idea for getting her mitts (and feet) on every Slappa’s colour available …

Rhonda Sellenthin Love my Slappas. One problem is I want a pair in every colour. Lol!

Slappa’s Thongs Get everyone to buy for Christmas Rhonda!

Rhonda Sellenthin Lol. What a good idea. 😉

We hope you’ve been good this year Rhonda Sellenthin so Santa brings you a swag of Slappas!

If you get your friends and family to order by lunchtime 20^th December, you’ll have your new rainbow range in time for Christmas Day 😉

Need Slappa’s for Christmas?

The weather is hotting up and it’s the perfect time to break out some new thongs! Order your Slappa’s Thongs online  and choose from our fabulous range of colours to suit every member of the family.

Wishing each of you a safe, happy and thong-tastic Christmas!

Warmest wishes,

Denise

Who’s spending November in a pair of Slappa’s Thongs?

If you’re a lover of foot fashion, then this is the time to thong-up for summer!

A great spin-off to wearing Slappa’s Thongs is that not only do your feet look pretty, but they’re also happy feet :).

Many of our customers tell us how much they love Slappa’s Thongs for their good looks and their great arch support. A big bonus if you need that extra support and comfort.

Why shouldn’t you have stylish, fashionable, footwear in fun colours, just because you need support? At Slappa’s we don’t buy in to the idea that special needs feet have to be encased in clunky, ugly orthotic shoes and sandals.

When I designed the first Slappa’s Thongs, it wasn’t with the intention to set up a range of orthotic thongs. I certainly don’t market my thongs that way, although some orthotic retailers do stock Slappa’s Thongs. I just wanted to create a thong which looked great and felt great.

I think most of our customers are initially attracted to the Slappa’s Thongs range because they look fantastic, with loads of zany, fun colour choices. Plus, you can see right away that they are high-quality, robust thongs – a big differential from most other fashion thongs.

What makes them so super comfy?

Here’s the techy bit …

Slappa’s Thongs are super comfy because they are made from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam. Made in a closed-cell injection mold means Slappa’s Thongs are all one piece, unlike most rubber thongs which have a plug – have you ever been booby-trapped by a thong plug coming out?

Not a good look. Or feeling!

Slappa’s are designed to stay on and mold to your feet, obtain your personal foot shape, have great arch support, are extremely light, very durable, relax tired feet and are orthotic-friendly footwear.

That’s why when you slipped on your first pair of good-lookin’ Slappa’s, your feet sighed with happiness.

That’s why Slappa’s lovers post comments like this “just glad I bought 2 pairs. With Plantar Fisciitis and now odeama, they truly are my life saver,” on our  Facebook page – thanks Rachel Higgs for sharing your Slappa’s experience with us.

You don’t have to be a fashion victim just because your feet need some extra TLC.

Give your feet a treat this summer!

Warmest wishes,

Denise

PS – Need Slappa’s for Christmas?The weather is hotting up and it’s the perfect time to break out some new thongs! Order your Slappa’s Thongs online  and choose from our fabulous range of colours to suit every member of the family.

Before any great trip there is the inevitable question of what to pack.

For me, one of the biggest packing decisions is “What shoes should I pack?” Not only do shoes take up so much room, you never end up wearing most of them. And, bugger it, you are on holidays! So why not wear your thongs?

In actuality, having your thongs be your travel shoes makes sense and is the practical thing to do.

Your feet also deserve a holiday

Let’s face it. When on holidays, you are going to want to give your feet time out too. No business shows or heels – something lazy and comfy.

But for many of us, holidays include a fair bit of exploring, which also means a lot of walking. So it’s important to make sure your travel shoes will provide the correct support as well as be very comfortable. There is nothing worst than suffering with sore, swollen feet or getting nasty blisters. This can totally ruin a perfect holiday!

The perfect travel shoes

The perfect travel shoes need to be supportive, comfortable, lightweight and the kind of shoes you are actually going to want to wear on your holiday.

In other words, thongs!

But be careful! Wearing flat thongs or poorly made flip-flops could actually be harming your feet. They are likely to leave you feeling exhausted after a day of walking and can also increase the risk of potential foot problems like plantar fasciitis or heel spurs.

So what is the recipe for the perfect travel shoes?

• Always make sure you plan ahead. We all know whenever you get new footwear there is always some breaking in to do. So don’t leave it to last minute, especially if you need to order online. Give yourself time to break in your travel shoes.
• Insist on arch support. It’s very important your new travel shoes, be they thongs or something else, have arch support. Your feet need to be looked after and without the right arch support you will be risking an unhappy holiday.
• Make sure you get the correct fit. When trying on shoes, check with the assistant if you have the right size. If you are buying online check, the website for a sizing and fitting chart. If you are still not sure from the chart, contact the seller by phone to ask for their recommendations. Shoes with arch support, especially thongs with arch support, need to be fitted correctly. A poor fit will not only feel ‘wrong’, but you won’t get the support you need (and the shoes may be uncomfortable).
• Adjust to your travel shoes. If you are not use to wearing arch support or have flat feet at first arch supporting thongs may feel weird. My suggestion is just rotate your thongs with other footwear until the arch of your foot gets use to the new shape. This is especially important with flat feet as the ligaments and tendons in your feet will need to take on a new shape, so rotating every 30-60 mins is suggested if you feel any signs of pain. It usually doesn’t take long for the feet to adjust and this is what podiatrists recommend when fitting orthotics.
• Value for money. Don’t get ripped off! Just because shoes have arch support it doesn’t mean they need to be exorbitantly expensive. Some brand name ‘travel shoes’ and thongs are just so grossly over priced and claim all the benefits in the world. Yes, you want a quality pair, but these are only shoes we are talking about! They shouldn’t need a bank loan. Looking at testimonials or reviews can be a great way to get a feel for the actual value of the product and help you to choose the right pair for you. You can also ask for feedback from people who have tried the product already through social media sites like Facebook.
• Do the thong check. If you’re taking thongs as your travel shoes, make sure they pass the ‘thong check’. They need to be light weight, good to walk in, easy to clean, capable of being worn in water and of solid construction. In other words, properly made and ideally designed so no plugs that can pull out. Nothing worse than a blow out on a holiday!

Need the perfect travel shoe? Our customers think slappa’s are the answer for traveling around the world! Get yourself a pair of slappa’s for your next travel adventure. You can order online now!

In Darwin one of the lucky things we get to do is to take the tinny out into the rivers just off the Darwin Harbour to catch some giant mud crabs. There’s nothing better than coming home with a feast of Darwin “Muddies” to cook up and enjoy.

Darwin mud crabs have a very sweet, delicious taste and can be enjoyed many different ways. Most times we just eat them fresh straight from the pot. Spread out plenty of newspaper over the outdoor table, a few water bowls, hammers and go for it.

But for a special occasion and when we have time we all love “My Magnificent Chilli Mud Crabs.” The flavours just explode in your mouth and if you can’t eat it all it just gets better the next day.

There are a few fishing charters in Darwin who can take you mud crabbing or you can buy them live from MR Barra or sometimes at Parap and Rapid Creek markets.

So when visiting Darwin, take the opportunity and experience catching, cooking and eating delicious Darwin Mud Crabs. As a special gift to readers of my blog, here’s my secret recipe which is easy to make and can be changed to suit your taste buds.

4 mud crab, cut into sections

6 tablespoons peanut oil or any oil you have

6-8 cloves garlic, chopped

4 tablespoons ginger, julienned or crushed (use to your taste)

2 tablespoons coriander root

4-6 red chillies, chopped

1 red capsicum sliced

2 tablespoons fish sauce to suit your taste

Juice of 2-3 limes

2 tablespoons sugar

Sprinkle of sea salt to taste

½ cup of your favourite sweet chilli sauce or chilli sauce

1-2 cups chicken stock

4-6 whole green spring onions chopped

1/2 cup chopped coriander

Coriander sprigs, for garnish

METHOD

For this recipe we use live mud crabs which we freeze to kill them humanly. You can use crabs which have been cooked but the flesh will not be as juicy.

Remove the top head shell and gills and throw away.

Rinse lightly to clean out

Cut crab in into 4 pieces and pull off big claws.

Crack the claws slightly with a cleaver or hammer so they allow the sauce to get in.

Heat wok and add oil.

Add garlic, ginger, coriander root and chilli. Be careful not to burn ingredients.

Add sliced red capsicum

Add crab tossing for 1-2 minutes

Add fish sauce, chilli sauce, lime juice, chicken stock, sugar and salt

Toss ingredients then cover with lid and cook for 10-12 minutes.

Toss spring onions and coriander through.

Serve straight from the wok
I hope you all enjoy my magnificent chilli mud crab recipe as much as we do and feel free to share it with your friends and family.

Warmly,

Denise

http://www.slappasthongs.com.au/buy-slappas

In Darwin, our kids get four weeks holidays in the dry season in the middle of the year and six weeks holidays for the Christmas break.

You’ll understand why Darwin is the home capital to the best thongs in the world, when you learn that during our dry season the temperature is a glorious 30-32 degrees Celsius every day and the wet season is hotter.

In the Slappa’s Thongs household, we exploit this to the full – and plan a few school holiday days – by chilling at the Darwin Waterfront.

Surrounded by lush, green parkland, the Waterfront has a fantastic wave pool lagoon, along with a safe recreation beach that is free from crocodiles and stingers (jellyfish).

The beach is half natural and half man-made and it’s my preferred choice when I’m entertaining four kids.

The Waterfront features a large hotel car park where you get two hours free or pay $2 for three hours.

However, when its school holidays and our plan is to stay as long as possible, my tip is to park under the Darwin Convention Centre which costs $5 for the whole day. Bargain!

There are restaurants, bars and cafes all around the parkland but you can also bring your own provisions and have a picnic.

In my experience, this is the easiest way to organise school holiday days, get some peace of mind, keep the kids occupied, and road test some new Slappa’s Thongs out under the glorious Darwin sky.

http://www.slappasthongs.com.au/buy-slappas

Mindil Beach Sunset Market is a great supporter of home grown music. Every Thursday and Sunday from the Sound Shell you can sit down at the tables set up by the markets, enjoy your dinner and a few drinks while listening to something different each week ranging from Reggae, folk, rock, jazz and country. Some of the local bands and musicians that have performance this year are Bridey Rose, Dave Garnham and his band The Reasons to Live, Reggae Dave, Skarett, Kormilda College Band, Darwin Army Band, After The Rain and recently brother’s Livi & Aaron VanderAa who have just returned from 2 years touring overseas.

It was great to listen to The Kormilda College band which was only created this year and is made up of talented junior music students, performing modern, classic soul and r’n’b inspired songs. Featuring upcoming diva Stevie Kyriacou, winner of the Darwin Schools Pitch Perfect singing competition, the band exhibits some of the most exciting young musicians in Darwin. So great to see so many young talented people in Darwin!

Performances from the Australian Air force Jazz Band, Darwin Army Band and the Australian Army Band draw in the crowds and are always extremely popular.

But the music which is best known at Mindil Beach is eMDee who play each week at the Casino End of the markets. You will experience the amazing sounds of extremely fast drum and didgeridoo laying at its best. They have even performed at the Sydney Opera House!

So if you are coming up to Darwin for a holiday or moving to Darwin this is just a taste of what is on offer when it comes to live music.

To see where all the live music is happening, you can look up the local Gig Guide either in the NT News on Thursday or the website www.darwinlive.com.au or their face book site.

Pictures courtesy of Mindil Beach Sunset Market

http://www.slappasthongs.com.au/buy-slappas

Wow what an amazing year it has been for Slappa’s Thongs. New colours, New website, New branding, New stockists and lot’s, lot’s, lot’s of New Slappa’s clients.

The year started with a very quick trip to China to see the new shipment be produced, packed up and sent to Darwin ready for the start of the Mindil Beach Sunset Market season. I was very excited as the new colours Red, Orange, White, Olympic Blue and Purple/White looked fantastic and I couldn’t wait to sell them and of course wear them.

The first market of the season was on ANZAC Day, so it was an early start for us as the kids and I always attend Dawn Service. The markets fittingly started with one minute’s silence and the Last Post was played to remember all of those who serviced our country and fort for what we have now. There was such a great vibe to the market as I think everyone was so excited that Mindil Beach Sunset Markets were back on for another year of food, fun, entertainment and new things to buy. The crowds were fantastic and it was so good to see all my market friends again. The night ended with fireworks and lots of cheers to mark the opening of the 2013 season.

The year saw lot’s of travel for me to Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide to meet potential stockists, trade fairs and arranging the New Website.

I teamed up with Janette (Dusty) Symonds from Squiggle Graphix and Phil Peet from Phil Boss Designs to design & implement the new website and branding for Slappa’s Thongs. What a huge job for all of us especially Dusty and Phil. We managed to get it launched just in time for the Christmas rush. What was even more exciting was the site was not even fully launched and we started getting orders. I would like to thank Dusty and Phil for all the hours, late nights and patience on achieving such a wonderful result. The website is so professional, easy to navigate and works a treat. Just perfect, perfect, perfect. I would also like to thanks my photographer Mark Hamilton from Mark Hamilton Photography in Darwin and Laura Bradley – model for the fantastic photo shoot. The photos are what makes this website. Also Donna and Ashley for being brave and enduring their first ever modelling experience and Darwin Waterfront for allowing us to photograph in such a great location.

Slappa’s Thongs were also very proud and happy to announce new locations where Slappa’s could be purchased. Slappa’s can now be found in South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and New South Wales.

In South Australia Slappa’s Thongs are located at The People’s Markets West Lakes Shores Friday, Saturday and Sunday. In Victoria I have three people selling from markets in Echuca Moama, Bendigo, Geelong, Laverton, Docklands, Oceangrove, Torquay and Portalington. All dates of markets are posted on Facebook. Indulgence Gifts in St Helen’s, Tasmania is the newest stockist and I am very excited to say Sole Therapy, podiatrist’s at Ramsgate Beach a suburb in Sydney are stockists.

Slappa’s Thongs has also teamed up with Barefoot Fishing Safaris, The Fish Grips Australia and 2nd year sponsors to the Waratah’s Juniors Football Club.

We have also donated over 1000 pairs of thongs to the refugees at the Darwin Airport Lodge and over 500 pairs to the Filipino Australian Association of the NT to help the people affected from Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.

Slappa’s Thongs is a continued supporter of Cystic fibrosis SA with donations of thongs and money.

So a very successful and busy year for Slappa’s Thongs in 2013 and with lot’s of new things on the drawing board we are certainly look forward to 2014.

Thankyou everyone who has supported Slappa’s Thongs. It is great to meet lot’s of new people at the markets and see familiar faces who keep coming back with their friends and family to buy Slappa’s.

Special thanks to my lovely friend Jeannie from Natural Wonders Darwin and her family for looking after Slappa’s Thongs for 2 weeks while we were away in December. You are amazing!

A very Happy, Happy New Year and may 2014 be a wonderful, prosperous year for us all.