Dear Manolo: Sturdy Sandals

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I HAVE A lovely, warm cruise on my schedule this winter. I'd like to find an unusual pair of sandals to take, but I want them to be U.S.-made. Any ideas?

MANOLO SAYS: Sadly, at least for the person who is looking for the stylish sandals to wear on the cruise, most of these high-quality American feetwear companies specialize in boots, and not just the cowboy boots either.

The best and most rugged work boots in the world are produced in America by such companies as Frye, Wolverine, Whites Boots and West Coast Shoes, the nearly century-old family firm in Oregon, which uses American leather to custom-make the world's best pole climber, forest ranger and motorcycle cop boots; in other words, serious shoes for serious occupations.

There is, however, one American company that produces exactly the sort of fun-in-the-sun sandal the Manolo's friend desires: Island Slipper, the Hawaiian company that has been making casually fantastic thong sandals in the island state for more than 60 years.

The Manolo's favorite is the sweet DT Leilani thong ($59, Islandslipper.com), available in three different colors.

Each week, Manolo the shoe blogger answers your pressing shoe questions. Ask the Manolo a question at manolo@shoeblogs.com. Visit the Manolo at shoeblogs.com.

Photo courtesy Zappos