Kheri (Peshawari chappal)

The Peshawari chappal (Pashto: پېښوري څپلۍ, lit. “Peshawar sandal”) is a traditional handcrafted leather sandal originating from Peshawar in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. The footwear is closely associated with Pashtun culture and has historically been worn throughout Pashtun regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan.^[1]

Known for its durable construction, wide leather straps and thick sole, the Peshawari chappal is traditionally handmade by cobblers and is commonly worn with the shalwar kameez. It remains one of the most recognizable forms of traditional footwear in Pakistan.^[2]

Although originally associated with Pashtun dress, the sandal gained popularity across Pakistan during the twentieth century and is now worn throughout the country.^[3]

The Peshawari chappal is a semi-closed sandal featuring broad leather straps across the front and sides of the foot, along with a rear strap secured with a metal buckle. The adjustable design allows the sandal to fit different foot sizes comfortably.^[4]

The sandal is typically handmade, with leather uppers stitched to thick soles designed for durability and long-term use.

Traditional Peshawari chappals are made primarily from cow or buffalo leather. Historically, their soles were produced using recycled truck tyres, which provided durability and traction for walking on rough terrain.^[5]

Modern variations sometimes replace tyre soles with rubber or other synthetic materials while retaining the traditional leather upper.

Peshawari chappals are produced through a multi-stage handcrafted process. Artisans cut and shape leather pieces, stitch them together, attach the upper to the sole, and finish the sandal with polishing and detailing.^[6]

The craft is commonly passed down through generations of shoemakers, particularly in artisan neighbourhoods of Peshawar and surrounding districts.^[7]

The primary centre of production for Peshawari chappals is the city of Peshawar. Traditional markets such as Qissa Khwani Bazaar and Namak Mandi host numerous workshops where artisans manufacture the sandals.^[8]

Production also takes place in nearby districts including Charsadda and Mardan, where regional variations of the design are produced.

The Peshawari chappal has long been worn by Pashtun communities in the Peshawar Valley and surrounding tribal regions. Its sturdy design made it suitable for everyday use in both urban and rural environments.^[9] During the twentieth century the footwear became increasingly popular outside Pashtun regions and spread throughout Pakistan.

Several regional variations of the Peshawari chappal exist. One of the most widely known is the Charsadda style, which features distinctive front straps and decorative stitching.

Modern adaptations also include embroidered designs, different colour combinations and additional buckles.

Demand for Peshawari chappals typically rises significantly during the period before Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Markets in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa often experience increased sales as shoppers purchase traditional clothing and footwear for the festivals.^[10]

The Peshawari chappal has attracted international attention after several global fashion brands released footwear inspired by the traditional design.

In 2014, British designer Paul Smith released a sandal similar to the Peshawari chappal priced at approximately £300, prompting criticism in Pakistan and leading the brand to acknowledge that the design was inspired by the traditional footwear.^[11]

In 2019, French fashion designer Christian Louboutin introduced a sandal called the "Imran Sandal", inspired by the Peshawari chappal and featuring the brand's signature red sole. The design sparked debate online, with some critics accusing the brand of cultural appropriation while others saw it as bringing global recognition to the traditional sandal.^[12]

A modern variation known as the Kaptaan Chappal gained popularity in 2015 after a pair was presented to Pakistani politician Imran Khan.^[13]

The Peshawari chappal is widely regarded as a symbol of traditional Pashtun dress and is commonly worn during weddings, cultural events and religious festivals across Pakistan.^[14]

• Pashtun culture
• Pakistani dress
• List of shoe styles