Old Friend Footwear founder focuses on
sheepskin slippers that support

Always a maverick, Jim Klavano was inspired by a continent, and as a result founded Australia Unlimited, Inc. with a mission to create products that provide affordable comfort, durability and utility. Jim started out importing medical sheepskins and sheepskin car seat covers in 1981, which he designed and had made to his specifications. Then in 1989, he started to design and manufacture sheepskin slippers. Later he developed our line of foam shoes and our own brand of massage sandals. Jim’s attention to detail and quality is visible in every stitch of every shoe. After 25 years in business, he remains hands-on in the design and manufacturing of all of his footwear.

Jim was born and raised in Eastern Washington where his father was a school administrator. He grew up in the agricultural centers of Walla Walla and Yakima. Early on, family and friends pegged Jim as “entrepreneurial.” And by his own admission, he likes the challenge of running his own company, but even more he enjoys beating and exceeding his own high standards year after year, product after product.

Bo, the company’s mascot, inspiration and loyal friend