Rubber-shoes on high demand

Various sizes, shapes, colours and designs of rubber shoes are gaining grounds in the Cameroon market, and with the advent of the rainy season, it has become a necessity to many.

These shoes commonly called “Nchang”, with prizes ranging between FCFA 1000 to FCFA 5000 is now being purchased on daily basis, witnessing constant increases not only for those who purchase to wear, but also those who engage in selling it.

Many Cameroonians now prefer to go for the rubber shoes for diverse reasons. "The shoes are light and smart,"says Palvine Ayuketang, rubber shoes are very bright “I look smart when I wear it, especially those that are in sandal forms.

I can walk through stones, water, mud etc, with little or no difficulty. Sometimes when there is difficulty in transportation, am able to trek long distances thanks to my rubber shoe”.

Also, most people go for these shoes because they are quite affordable. “I usually purchase very nice ones at FCFA1500, an amount which is hardly enough to get leather shoes”, another consumer added.

In terms of durability,these shoes are something to ride home of “Except during special occasions in school, I am always in my “Nchang”, I usually wear it for up to six-months on a daily basis without any fault; they are strong and long-lasting, far more than most of the leather shoes”, Stephen Njie, a student, told The Sun.

Another reason why many Cameroonians go for the rubber shoes is because they are comfortable. The manner in which they are designed, especially the sandals allows air into the foot, making it free from heat and bacteria.

Also, they are designed in various colours, which gives combination to outfits, and make people of style complete. “The ones I go for are very well designed that many do not notice it is rubber, it is really classic”.

“Nchang” are worn by various ages, sex and people from all walks of life and with the convenience it brings along, it will surely not be going out of fashion in a short while.