Thanks for the feedback guys................ 
TwinOaks............I live in Mobile too! Damn it's a small world.  As to your suggestion to buy soles only and make my own uppers, I thought about that but didn't know if say snakeskin for instance would be strong enough to not break......... 
Ian..............yes, I know the Chinese have a monopoly these days on trade but there is vietnam, indonesia ect. 
Rickyfro..............These would be "designer Flops" @ $100.00 plus a pop.  Don't think they will be anywhere near water 
Jordon..........What is a clicker?  Is it something that stamps out soles?  Anyway I'm thinking leather bottoms are the way to go or maybe a combo of leather and rubber. 
Leatherbum..........yes, "Made in America" definately has marketing cache, especially if it is "handmade" 
Anyway keep the ideas coming.  TwinOaks, maybe we should get together since I have no experience in leatherworking and you obviously do.  I am a business guy though and if the idea proves feasible I know how to get it off the ground.  email me at chuck@athelstanclub.org