Australian Drinking Tradition Involving a Shoe

The Australian drinking tradition involving a shoe is commonly known as the “shoey.” It is a unique and unusual practice in which a person drinks a beverage, most commonly alcohol, from a shoe. Although it is strongly associated with Australia today, the idea of drinking from shoes has existed in different cultures for many centuries and has developed over time into the modern shoey.

What Is a Shoey?

A shoey is the act of pouring a drink, usually beer or sometimes champagne, into a shoe and then drinking it directly from that shoe. The shoe can belong to the person drinking or to someone else. In most cases, the process involves removing a shoe, filling it with a full drink, and then consuming it in one go. This act is often done in a celebratory or playful manner, especially during parties or after significant achievements.

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Historical Background

Early Traditions (Middle Ages and Earlier)

The practice of drinking from shoes dates back to ancient and medieval times. In some cultures, it was believed that drinking from a shoe could bring good luck or fortune. There are also references in historical and religious traditions where shoes were used as containers to offer water or drinks. These early practices show that the idea of using footwear as a drinking vessel existed long before the modern shoey became popular.

Military Traditions (World War I Era, 1914–1918)

During the early 20th century, especially in the period of World War I from 1914 to 1918, drinking from boots became associated with military customs. German soldiers were known to drink beer from boots as part of rituals, celebrations, or even hazing practices. It was sometimes believed to bring good luck before battle or to mark special occasions. This tradition later inspired the creation of the beer boot, a glass shaped like a boot that is still used today.

Champagne Slipper Tradition (1902)

In 1902, a related tradition appeared at the Everleigh Club in Chicago, where champagne was reportedly drunk from a woman’s slipper. This act became associated with luxury, extravagance, and entertainment in high society during the early 20th century, further showing how drinking from footwear had symbolic meanings in different contexts.

The Shoey in Australia

Rise of the Modern Shoey (21st Century)

The shoey became especially popular in Australia during the 21st century. It is now commonly seen as a fun and humorous activity, often performed during celebrations or social gatherings. In Australia, the shoey is not considered a formal tradition but rather a spontaneous and entertaining act that reflects a carefree and bold attitude.

Popularization in Sports (2015–Present)

The shoey gained worldwide attention through sports beginning in 2015. Australian driver David Reynolds performed a shoey after winning a race in 2015, bringing attention to the practice. In 2016, MotoGP rider Jack Miller also celebrated with a shoey. The tradition became globally famous when Formula One driver Daniel Ricciardo began performing shoeys on the podium in 2016, even encouraging other drivers and public figures to participate.

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Spread to Global Culture (2016–2025)

From 2016 onward, the shoey spread beyond Australia and became a global cultural phenomenon. Many athletes, musicians, and celebrities started performing shoeys at events, concerts, and celebrations. In 2020, Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton participated in a shoey at a race event. On 14 November 2021, Australian cricketers celebrated their ICC T20 World Cup victory with a shoey. In 2023, singer Harry Styles performed a shoey during a concert in Perth. By 2024 and 2025, the shoey had become widely recognized around the world as a bold and unusual form of celebration.

Why Do People Do It?

The shoey serves different purposes depending on the situation. It is often used as a way to celebrate victories or achievements and is meant to entertain and amuse people. It can also create a sense of bonding among participants, as it encourages shared experiences and group participation. Historically, similar practices were linked to ideas of good luck, initiation rituals, or even displays of luxury and extravagance.

Fun or Just Unhygienic?

Despite its popularity, the shoey is often criticized for being unhygienic. Shoes can contain sweat, dirt, and bacteria, which may pose health risks when used as a drinking vessel. Many people find the idea unpleasant or unsanitary, and even those who participate often admit that the experience may not be enjoyable in terms of taste or cleanliness.