Meet the Shuka - The Maasai shuka!

Meet the Shuka - The Maasai shuka!

If you’ve never heard of the shuka clothes, you have probably seen them in travel magazines or programs, on billboards or worn by those adventurous at heart! Use it to make yourself a stylish dress, pair of pants or a clutch bag!

The shuka, known to be durable, strong, and thick — protecting the Maasai from the harsh weather and terrain of the savannah.

They are often red with black stripes, the shuka cloth is affectionately known as the “African blanket” and was traditionally worn by the Maasai people of East Africa.

The Maasai people are semi-nomadic and usually found in the Eastern side of our African continent.

Globally, they have become known for their unique way of life, as well as their cultural traditions and customs.

They are known to be formidable, strong warriors who hunt for food in the wild savannah and live closely with wild animals.

Living across the arid lands along the Great Rift Valley in Tanzania and Kenya,the Maasai population is currently under 2 million, with the majority of them living on the Masai Mara National Reserve of Kenya.

The Maasai identity is often defined by colorful beaded necklaces, an iron rod (as a weapon) and of course, red shuka cloth. While red is the most common color, the Maasai also use blue, striped, and checkered cloth to wrap around their bodies. It’s known to be durable, strong, and thick — protecting the Maasai from the harsh weather and terrain of the savannah.

Get your Travel mood on and buy your shuka today from our online store!

Back to blog