Fine mats have long been a part of Tongan and Pacific Island tradition. Their significance to the Tongan culture is highly important in determining status and showing respect as in koloa giving, clothing (Ta'ovala), as sails for early Tongan vessels (La), and as articles used in building traditional Tongan houses (Faletonga). There are many different types of fala in Tonga each with their own names. Fala's can be called in various ways depending on how it is described. For example, they can be described by their length and size such as Fatuua & Fatufa; or they can also be described by texture and fineness as in Kie and Fihu; They may also be described by their various marking and designs as in a Tongi efu & Laku Loloa. There are other ways of describing as well. Below are a few examples of different Fala designs.