In the Tatry mountain region of southern Poland, there is an area known as Podhale inhabited by gorale, literally highlanders.   To this day many of the highlanders in Podhale still wear their distinctive clothing we would call a folk costume, except that strictly speaking it is not a costume since it is still commonly worn.  The footwear worn by both men and women are called kierpce and they are made from leather (either sheepskin, pigskin or cowhide).  Kierpce with added soles and heels are made for outdoor use.  Our kierpce are made for indoor wear, like slippers or mocassins which have no added soles or heals; like ballet slippers they are very soft and perfect for Polish dancing.

The top and sides of the kierpce are highly decorated with brass findings and a buckle and feature extensive designs burned into the leather.  They look as good as they feel.  The best kierpce are made from sheepskin which are thicker, very supple and soft to the touch.  We only sell kierpce made from sheepskin (skora juchtowa).