There are many designs and brands of Adidas Kampung available
These rubber shoes, called Adidas Kampung is probably one of the most talked about footwear for use especially when trekking or walking in jungles like in Malaysia. These (really) cheap shoes can cost anything between RM5 to RM10 and is actually very easily available in Malaysia. Not only do we uses these shoes ourselves but we will also share with you some useful contacts. So….read on!
Adidas Kampung rubber shoes has a reputation that makes it a popular choice among many outdoor adventure goers in Malaysia. They can be seen worn by mountain climbers, river paddlers and even among outdoor educators at established organization. While their price may be an important factor, the popularity of these shoes we reckon boils down to its practicality and functionality.
Some models of Adidas Kampung comes with laces!
These rubber shoes are no fuss shoes. They do not have any hi-tech materials lining, French made soles nor any claims that it is treated to be ‘bacteria free’. These shoes are just rubber shoes. Nothing more and nothing less. They have been worn by rubber tappers, miners and workers in Malaya (back then) for generations. They are very affordable, waterproof, needs minimal care and can be obtain almost anywhere in Malaysia!
We manage to get 3 pairs of Adidas Kampung for show & tell. All three are of different brands with some distinct differences.
First of all, its laces against no laces. Personal choice but some prefer the laces because it helps to secure the feet to whatever thickness of socks one is wearing. As for the one without laces, well that would mean less an item to fail but one has to really try the shoe on before buying.
Cap Gajah rubber shoes has laces...not easy to come by
Secondly, its the sizing. Though you may wear size 8 of brand X Adidas Kampung, do not take for granted that you will fit size 8 of brand Y Adidas Kampung. Sizing are different according to brand unfortunately, so asking a friend to buy on your behalf is not the best idea.
Lastly…the soles of the shoes. Basically, there are two types. Studded and non studded. We reckon it is the studded ones that gave this rubber shoes the name ‘Adidas Kampung’. This particular model by Cap Gajah has 4 strikes…as close as it gets to Adidas’s 3 stripes perhaps.
The studded soles of the Cap Gajah Adidas Kampung
Studded soles are great for that added traction but they are probably not the best for heavier built persons or for walking on tarmac. The ‘studs’ tend to break. But we know some trekkers that will swear by this studded version of rubber shoes. Alternatively, there is the more ‘flat’ sole ones. They are great for all round general use.
This Bowling brand Adidas Kampung has a 'flatter' sole surface
Well, there you go…a little bit about the famous Adidas Kampung rubber shoes…known all over Malaysia. More to come!
