Mallorca’s northeastern neighbour, Menorca, is known for its sun-soaked shores, mellow tempo and Mibo—the brand that crafts the quintessential Balearic sandal. Known locally as ‘avarcas’, ‘abarcas’ or ‘menorquínas’’, this summer footwear staple is easily identifiable by its relaxed slingback style with leather uppers and rubber outsoles. Traditional and contemporary, you’ll spot Mibo on the feet of everyone in the know on the islands of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza—and beyond.
A symbol of tradition and innovation
The avarca was developed in Menorca, originally using car tyres as outsoles. Today, Mibo, the main creator and exporter of the menorquína sandal uses a lighter and more flexible rubber sole for practicality and comfort. Based in Es Migjorn Gran in the island’s south, Mibo has a long tradition in the footwear industry despite being a relatively young brand. Its natural-looking shoes for women, men and kids are designed and made in Menorca with respect for the tradition of shoemaking, enhanced by modern technology.
The handcrafted collection
Mibo styles range from classic avarca sandals to flatforms and wedges in a rainbow of colours and prints—from woven raffia to animal print and even glitter. Vegan options are also available, with uppers made from microfibers imitating leather, which is gentle on delicate allergy-prone skin. And Mibo styles are not exclusive to summer—there are also winter-appropriate options with soft and cosy sheepskin uppers, for example. On the other end of the sartorial scale, Mibo also does weddings. For brides-to-be, there is a pretty selection, ranging from jute wedge soles with tonal uppers and floral adornments to designs with lace detailing or all-out metallics to make sure you sparkle. How about one pair for day and one for night? Whichever you choose, a pair of Mibo will make your special day extra special—and you’ll wear them for years to come.
Menorca in a sandal
Mibo sandals can be seen on the cobbled streets of Ciutadella and the tree-lined boulevards of Palma de Mallorca. You’ll see them resting beside towels on the islands’ beaches and on the feet of the well-heeled in cafés, restaurants—everywhere around the Balearic Islands. Avarcas are so iconic that you might even spot them further afield since they are on the top of every discerning shopper’s list when they visit. Versatile, comfortable and chic—avarcas embody the tradition of the islands, particularly Menorca, while working in a contemporary context too. In other words, they’re timeless. Explore the collection online or head to the Mibo factory in Es Migjorn to select your dream pair(s) next time you are in Menorca. There, Mibo can custom-make sandals in your favourite colour to order—the dream souvenir that symbolises Menorca, and the Balearic Islands.
