Mythology

• Native American myths describe the creation of moccasins as being made by a medicine man for a chief with tender feet.
  
  

Tribal Differences in Moccasins

• There are tribal differences in design, decoration and functional design of moccasins. Differences are mainly in bead-work and ornamentation, but can also include unusual decorative cuts and patterns. Often, moccasin patterns are a fundamental indicator of tribal affiliation.
  
  

Functional Differences

• A number of functional differences in moccasins developed depending on where they were worn and the conditions in which they were used. For example, some tribes added hardened rawhide on the soles for durability. Tribes in cold climates made higher, more insulated moccasins whereas tribes in warmer climates made lighter weight footwear.
  
  

Adoption by Europeans

• As Europeans penetrated Native American land, some people who came in to contact began to wear moccasins because of their functionality and comfort.
  
  

Modern Use of Moccasins

• In spite of their durability and beauty, the fickleness of modern fashion has relegated moccasin style footwear primarily to a role of house slippers.