Shortage of shoes in Cuba: Rubber boots are becoming "fashionable" in Havana

Kapléx highlights the use of rubber boots in Cuba as a "trend" due to the economic crisis that restricts access to conventional footwear. Their video has sparked debate on social media.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

April 11, 2024 - 10:59 AM (GMT-5) |

Bolivian TikToker Kapléx (@kaplexx), whose real name is Jhamil Kaleb Marca Ramos, caught attention on social media after sharing a video of his trip to Havana, where he discovered a peculiar "fashion" among the locals: the use of rubber boots.

In his video, Kapléx expresses his surprise at seeing numerous people wearing rubber boots in everyday activities on the central streets of Havana, despite the intense heat on the island.

This type of footwear is common among farmers and workers in humid areas, and some Cubans also wear them on rainy days. However, it has recently become a "trend" to wear rubber boots at any time and in any place.

The choice of rubber boots in Cuba for daily activities goes beyond mere fashion. It is due to the economic difficulties faced by Cubans in acquiring comfortable and durable shoes.

Rubber boots have become an accessible alternative for those who cannot afford conventional shoes due to the high prices of such items in the black market.

This is complemented by the creativity of some Cubans who pair boots with colorful socks, creating a distinctive style that has caught the attention of the Bolivian influencer during his trip to Havana.

The Kapléx video has sparked a debate on social media regarding the economic reality in Cuba, highlighting the difficulties the population faces in accessing basic goods such as footwear.

Share on:

Filed under:

Do you have anything to report? Write to CiberCuba:

[email protected] +1 786 396 5689