About Us

Lee Risler has been handcrafting leather sandals since 1963. Lee’s innovations and craftmanship have earned him awards from Tapestry in Talent, Tempe Festival of the Arts, and Fiesta de Las Artes.

All Kiwi Sandals are made to order using techniques that Lee and his son Rhett continue to innovate and iterate on. Their shop is based in a small town in the California desert, located at the base of the Big Bear Mountains.

While Lee suffered the loss of his left arm from a harrowing car accident in March 2000, his spirits are strong and cheerful and he is happy to be alive. The accident didn't slow Lee down, as he continues working along side Rhett who now operates the shop full time — making handcrafted leather sandals for their loyal customers. 

Look for Kiwi Sandals at your local arts and craft fairs and visit with Lee and Rhett. They continue to travel to arts and crafts shows throughout the western states of California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah.