A type of casual shoe with no laces, usually flat, that you can slip on and off easily.
From German 'Läufer' (runner) or possibly a blend of 'loaf' (to idle) and 'loafer' (idler), suggesting these shoes are for lazy, casual wear. First appeared as shoe terminology in the 1930s.
The word 'loafer' perfectly captures the spirit of the shoe—they became massively popular in the 1950s because they were the ultimate casual shoe, perfect for the new American teenager who wanted to look cool without trying too hard.
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