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Footwear refers to any apparel worn on the feet, such as shoes or boots. The earliest evidence suggests humans began protecting their feet around 50,000 years ago, with more substantial soles appearing by 40,000 years ago. The oldest known footwear, sandals found in California, dates back approximately 9,000 years.12

Historically, footwear evolved from simple wraparound leather designs to more shaped and fitted shoes. Materials have progressed from leather, including calf, goat, and cattle hide, to modern synthetics like rubber, plastics, and various fabrics. Footwear styles have varied greatly over centuries, influenced by culture, rank, and changing fashion trends.234

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