Friulane Shoes in Venice

The ultimate shoe of Friuli is made from recycled materials like jute coffee sacks for the upper and bicycle tires for the sole. They were worn by women and eventually found their way to the city of Venice where gondoliers adopted them for their comfort and non-slippery rubber soles, which prevented damage to the varnish on gondolas.

These Gondolier shoes, or Furlane, come in various colors and styles, ranging from simple designs to ornate versions with embroidery.

Why have Friulane shoes become synonymous with Gondolier shoes?

When it comes to shopping, Venice is famous for marbled paper, Murano glass, Fortuny silk, and handmade masks. But you can also find a variety of unique items like the legendary Friulane shoes worn by gondoliers—hence their "Venetian shoes" nickname. There's something for everyone in this historic city.

The original Friulane shoes were invented by women in the region of Friuli. These handmade shoes were sewn from discarded fabrics and materials, including old bicycle tires for the soles.

Today in Friuli, they are still made by hand by local craftsmen in small batches and have become a trend in Italian sustainable fashion. They're also lightweight and seasonless, making them wearable year-round.

Who buys them?

If you're looking for a chic and timeless footwear option, Friulane shoes are your go-to. Many workshops in Friuli continue to use recycled materials in the traditional manner, including used bicycle tires for the soles.

These original Furlana slippers emerged centuries ago in northern Italy, where women stitched them from fabric scraps such as jute sacks and old sheets. In the 19th century, during a wave of poverty, these shoes became a symbol of survival, dignity, and resistance.

Years later, they began being sold on the Rialto Bridge and quickly gained popularity among gondoliers, earning the nickname Gondolier Shoes or Venetian shoes.

They were also worn by nobles and became an icon of the Italian Dolce Vita. Perfect for all occasions, Friulane shoes pair beautifully with denim, skirts, and even evening wear. They’re also genderless and perfect for every season.

What are they made of?

Modern but still traditional, Friulane shoes are handmade with a rubber sole—originally made from bike tires—and fine velvet for a comfortable, secure fit. They’re perfect for a casual-chic look and suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear.

They originated in the peasant tradition of Friuli, where ingenuity and resourcefulness led women to create shoes from materials like jute coffee sacks or old clothes. Layers of fabric were stitched together with waxed string to form durable soles. This was a family effort and a way for housewives to support their households.

The shoes soon spread to Venice, where gondoliers appreciated their comfort as they stood all day long.

Where can I find them?

Friulane shoes—called "scarpet" or "papusse" in Italy—are a must-have for every fashion lover. Genderless and versatile, they pair effortlessly with anything from jeans to evening dresses.

Originating in the mountains of Friuli two centuries ago, they were made by village women using materials like jute sacks. They’ve retained their cultural value and remain a symbol of Friuli Venezia Giulia. Gondoliers were the first to adopt them outside the region, valuing their non-slip rubber soles made from bike tires.

Today, Friulane shoes are a staple in fashionable wardrobes and have been spotted on style icons like Kate Moss and George Clooney.