Tourist Conquers Slovak Via Ferrata in Flip-Flops, Sparks Social Media Storm

A tourist who set out to tackle a via ferrata route on the Skalka cliff near the Slovak town of Kremnica did so wearing ordinary rubber Crocs-style sandals instead of the sturdy, grippy boots normally recommended for such climbs. Footage of his ascent surfaced on the this is Slovakia page and later spread via the Tatry Oficial channel, triggering a wave of reactions online.

The man, quickly dubbed the "king of rubber slippers" by social media users, drew criticism from both amateur hikers and mountain professionals alike. Martin Matušek, head of the Slovak Mountain Rescue Service, said that moving through the mountains in flip-flops is an extremely risky endeavour — and not just on via ferrata routes.

Why It's Dangerous

"Flip-flops, or any footwear without proper heel support, don't provide stable contact with the surface," Matušek explained. According to him, such shoes make it impossible to regain control if a foot slips or the sandal comes loose. "This is an entirely unjustified risk," the rescue chief stressed.

Despite the seriousness of the rescuers' warnings, the video drew more smiles than alarm from many viewers. A lively debate broke out in the comments under the Instagram clip over the tourist's recklessness, though he had his defenders too. "He's just walking up some steps. He's not going to put on climbing shoes for that," one user quipped.

While most of the criticism landed on the "king of rubber slippers," the footage reveals he wasn't the only one poorly shod for the route — other members of his group were also seen wearing flip-flops.

Around Prague, based on reporting by novinky.cz