Anyhoo it says they originated from the Pol Pot era where things were scarce and people did what they could with the available resources.
The article says he sells a lot to young people (who like the traditional flip flop style) and the sandal type to older generation who just like them, maybe to remember harsher times.
Well i got hold of the old geezer and now own a pair. $5, 20,000 mile warranty!

As I suspected they’re not made from the tread, because that contains metal so is probably harder to work with and a hazard to your feet, but the sidewall.

Can’t find the original article.
I find this article from 2000. Maybe they are still sold at the market. Anyone know?
https://m.phnompenhpost.com/national/kr ... le-retread
At the bus station to collect them and the young locals were curious. One old boy seemed to get a bit nostalgic about them.
They are comfortable but the old boy said they’d take a few months to “shape to your feet”, or that’s the translation my wife gave me.