The Havaianas Rule
When packing shoes for a trip to Rio de Janeiro, you might be tempted to bring a variety of options: walking shoes, dress shoes, sandals, and beach flip-flops. However, the quintessential Carioca style dictates a much simpler approach: The Havaianas Rule.
What is the Havaianas Rule?
Simply put, Havaianas (Brazil’s famous brand of rubber flip-flops) are acceptable footwear for almost every occasion in Rio de Janeiro.
You wear them:
- To the beach (obviously)
- To the supermarket
- To lunch at a casual restaurant
- To grab a beer at a corner boteco
- Walking down the mosaic sidewalks of Copacabana
Buy Them When You Arrive
Do not pack flip-flops from home. Havaianas are a Brazilian institution, and buying a fresh pair (or three) is a rite of passage when you arrive in Rio. You can find them in every pharmacy, supermarket, and dedicated Havaianas boutiques. They are significantly cheaper in Brazil than anywhere else in the world, and you will find hundreds of exclusive patterns and colors.
When NOT to Wear Havaianas
While Havaianas rule the day, there are a few specific times you should leave them in your hotel room:
- Hiking: If you are hiking up Two Brothers (Dois Irmãos) or Pedra do Telégrafo, you need proper athletic sneakers with good grip.
- Upscale Nightlife: If you are going to a fancy restaurant in Leblon or a high-end nightclub, closed-toe shoes or dressy sandals are required.
- The Metro (Sometimes): While perfectly legal, riding the crowded Metro during rush hour in flip-flops is a great way to get your toes stepped on.
