Africa, especially Cameroon, is very creative in fashion and this is noted from the various items produced or imported as the seasons change. Rubber shoes with "moccasin" shapes and canvass designs, are the latest modes in town. These rubber shoes are imported from China and are particularly seen in Douala.
Designed in a multitude of styles and different colours, the rubber shoes can be found everywhere in town. They are cheap and affordable. They are soft, shiny, light and easy to move with especially during this rainy season. These shoes are available for both males and females. They are normally worn for protection against the rains and mud. Many youths can be seen in the neigbourhoods with the shoes as well as adults who wear them to work.
The local retailers of the trendy rubber shoes say that the shoes were present before the change of season in Douala but were very expensive and rare because it was sold mainly by traders who were returning from China. One pair could cost up to FCFA15,000. When the Chinese wholesalers saw the sales potential, they started importing in large quantities and thus causing the price to reduce to FCFA 3,000 and 3,500. City dwellers say the shoes are durable and could be worn with any attire at any time of the day.
