Michael, the proprietor of Island Sandals, runs a little shop in a corner of the mall across from the Old Courthouse in Lahaina. We met for the first time four years ago. Having at the time no intention of purchasing a pair of hand made sandals, I felt economically secure in chatting up this local business man.
But time passes quickly in talking to Michael. He has a lot of opinions. He knows a lot about feet, about leather, about local politics, about the feeding habits and the tracking of local wild boar, etc. Eventually the topic will turn to shoes and you will notice that his sandals really are handsome in a very perfect and simple way. The story he tells of leather shoes needing saddle soap to rid them of the acid they collect thru your feet becomes strangely compelling and you will accept this story as gospel.
Is this merely an effective sales pitch? It may be but I don't think so. There is something about Michael that feels true and of this place. My wife and I both walked away with a pair and they are among our favorite shoes. And every trip since has included a visit to Michael's timeless workshop
Cash or check up front. You will be given an estimate of time to deliver. Whatever that estimate multiple by two. As time passes you may begin to feel as though you have been had, BUT Michael WILL deliver and if your experience is like mine you will be glad you invested the time to talk to this Maui original. read more