Traditional footwear in high demand for cold winter months

Now that winter is nearly here, keeping warm is a top priority. The search for practical warmth during Anatolia's winter months has brought traditional attire back to everyday life. Mests, leather footwear that covers the entire foot, are in high demand once again, especially for those who work outside.

One of the main reasons mests have once again gained popularity is that they are cheaper and easier to use. Made with special leather and rubber, mests can be worn inside or outside and retail for between TL 10 and TL 30 ($2.60 and $7.75).

Rafet Duman, a mest maker in Kayseri, said: "Mests are made with thermal leather and keep your feet very warm during winter. Moreover, when people perform ablution and wear mests right after, they do not have to wash their feet before every prayer, which is more practical during winter."