Russian Bast Shoes, measures 10.5'' from toe to heel x 4'' Lapti are the traditional bast shoes of the Russian peasants. The word lapti apparently originated from the word ''lapa'', which meant ''foot'' in old times, and now means paw. Until the beginning of the 20th century lapti were worn in every Russian village, but nowadays one can hardly find anyone wearing them save for the special occasions, like celebrations or costume shows.