The avarca sandal is deeply rooted in the island's culture and history and symbolizes the perfect blend of tradition, functionality, and style

Avarca Sandals: Menorca's Timeless Footwear

In Menorca, the iconic avarca sandal stands as a testament to the island's rich history and enduring craftsmanship. Originally designed for farmers, shepherds and field workers to be adaptable to the Menorcan climate and terrain, avarcas have evolved into a symbol of the island's heritage, embraced by locals and visitors alike. 

Historical Origins

The avarca's roots can be traced back to Menorca's agrarian communities, where the need for durable and comfortable footwear in hot weather was paramount. Early avarcas featured leather uppers and soles, providing the necessary sturdiness for daily tasks. Over time, with the advent of industrial materials, recycled rubber from car tires was incorporated into the soles, enhancing durability and comfort.

Castell Menorca avarcas continue to be handcrafted 100% in Menorca.

Craftsmanship and Local Production

Today, avarcas are meticulously handcrafted by local artisans, preserving traditional methods, while adapting to contemporary tastes. Family-owned brands such as Castell Menorca, Ria Menorca, and Avarcas Pons are renowned for their dedication to quality and authenticity. These manufacturers source leather locally and employ skilled artisans, ensuring that each pair reflects the island's heritage. The "Avarca de Menorca" label guarantees that the sandals are genuinely made on the island, adhering to established quality standards.

The Castell Avarca: A Benchmark of Quality 

Founded in 1985 by the Castell family, this brand was born with a simple and powerful purpose: to keep the art of traditionally making avarcas alive, from Menorca to the world. Its founders, deeply rooted in Menorca and connected to its values, saw the avarcas as much more than just footwear - they were a symbol of identity and resilience.

At a time when industrial production was beginning to dominate the market, Castell opted for the opposite: to return to hands, to leather, to work done with time and respect. And that decision marked the course of a brand that, today, is a benchmark not only of quality, but also of consistency. Each pair of Castell avarcas continues to pass through expert hands, who cut, sew, and assemble them with the same care as always. It's not just about making shoes: it's about maintaining a way of doing things.

Castell & Sustainability 

This 2025, on the occasion of Castell's 40th anniversary, they launched a very special initiative: the "Ocean Menorca" collection. It is a line of sandals made with SEAQUAL® yarn, a material obtained from plastics recovered from the sea. The collection is the result of a collaboration with the local association Per la Mar Viva, which actively works to clean up the Mediterranean and raise environmental awareness.

This project is another step in Castell's commitment to a responsible future. Because if there is one thing that has characterized the brand since its beginnings, it has been its ability to look forward without forgetting where it comes from. A balance between tradition and innovation, between roots and projection.

Universal Appeal

The avarca's simple yet functional design has universal appeal. When in Menorca, it's common to see farmers wearing avarcas in the fields, sometimes even riding horses in them, appreciating their comfort, practicality and durability. Simultaneously, the sandals have found favour among yachting enthusiasts and city dwellers, who pair them with contemporary fashion, seamlessly transitioning from casual outings to more formal settings.

Enduring Legacy

From their inception as practical footwear for Menorcan farmers to their current status as globally recognized fashion item, avarca sandals exemplify the island's rich tradition of craftsmanship and adaptability. Whether traversing the rugged landscapes of Menorca or the polished decks of a yacht, avarcas continue to offer comfort, durability, and a tangible connection to the island's enduring heritage.