Balochi Chappal vs Peshawari Chappal: What's the Difference?
Walk into any bazaar in Pakistan and you'll find two chappals side by side: the Balochi and the Peshawari. Both are handmade and both pair well with shalwar kameez, yet each has its own story, shape and feel. If you've ever wondered which one to buy, this guide explains the difference simply.
Where They Come From
The Balochi chappal, also called chawat, comes from Balochistan. In Quetta and across the province, it has been made by hand for generations by local karigars, who pass the craft from father to son.
The Peshawari chappal comes from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and takes its name from Peshawar. It is one of the best-known traditional footwear styles in the country and is worn proudly across Pakistan.
How to Tell Them Apart
The quickest way to tell them apart is to look at the front of the chappal.
Peshawari chappal:
- Two wide leather straps cross over the front of the foot
- A closed toe area with a clean, structured shape
- A back strap with a buckle
- Usually made from smooth, polished leather
A Peshawari chappal: wide crossed front straps and a buckled back strap.
Balochi chappal (chawat):
- An open-toe design with a broad upper
- Often features braided, woven or criss-cross leatherwork
- Decorative details such as a round leather phool (rosette)
- Often made from soft suede (sabar) with a thick tyre sole
A Balochi chawat: open toe, woven upper and a thick tyre sole.
In short, the Peshawari is about clean, bold lines, while the Balochi is about texture and handwork.
Comfort and Feel
Both chappals are built for everyday wear, but they feel different on the foot.
A Balochi chawat made from suede is soft from the first day and usually needs little breaking in. The open front keeps the foot airy, which many people prefer in warm weather.
A Peshawari chappal in firm leather gives a more structured fit. It may feel stiff at first, but good leather softens with wear and shapes itself to your foot over time.
Which One for Which Occasion?
| Occasion | Balochi Chappal | Peshawari Chappal |
|---|---|---|
| Daily wear | ✔ Light and airy | ✔ Durable |
| Jummah | ✔ | ✔ |
| Eid and weddings | ✔ Decorative styles stand out | ✔ Classic, formal look |
| Summer | ✔ Open, breathable design | Good |
| With waistcoat or formal kameez | Good | ✔ Sharp, polished look |
Both work with shalwar kameez. The choice usually comes down to personal style: some prefer the craft and detail of a Balochi chawat, others the bold, classic look of a Peshawari.
How to Choose the Right Size
Handmade chappals can vary slightly from pair to pair. Stand on a sheet of paper, mark your heel and longest toe, and measure the distance. If you're between two sizes, choose the larger one. Every Wahjee product page has a size guide, and you can also message us on WhatsApp with your foot length for help.
Caring for Your Chappal
- Suede (Balochi): Brush gently with a soft brush to remove dust. Keep it away from water and dry it in shade if it gets wet.
- Leather (Peshawari): Wipe with a dry cloth and apply leather polish or conditioner from time to time.
- Don't dry either one in direct sunlight, as it can crack the leather.
- Store them in a cool, dry place.
Shop Handmade Chappals at Wahjee
At Wahjee, every chappal is made by hand by artisans in Balochistan. Explore our range:
- Balochi Chappals for Men
- Women's Balochi Chappals
- Peshawari Chappal – Brown Genuine Leather
- Norozi Chappals
Cash on Delivery across Pakistan · Delivery in 2–3 days · Easy size exchange
Not sure which pair suits you? Chat with us on WhatsApp and we'll help you choose.