What sandals are popular in Japan?
Sandals, known as “zori” or “geta” in Japan, are an essential part of Japanese culture and fashion.
These traditional footwear options are versatile, comfortable flats for women and come in a wide range of styles and designs.
With Japan being a hub of fashion and trends, it’s no surprise that there are many popular types of sandals in Japan. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular sandals for women worn in Japan.
1. Geta Sandals
Geta sandals are the most popular traditional Japanese ladies flat shoes option. They are made of wood with a raised platform at the front and back.
Geta sandals are usually worn with a casual yukata or kimono in summer, and they provide excellent ventilation, comfort and offer a unique fashion statement.
2. Zori Sandals
Zori sandals are similar to Geta sandals, but they have a flat sole, which is made of straw, rubber or synthetic materials. They are lightweight, comfortable and can be worn with traditional Japanese attire or modern-day outfits. They come in a variety of colors and styles, including ones with intricate designs.
3. Tabi Sandals
Tabi sandals are designed to be worn with tabi socks, which have a divided toe. They are ideal for indoor wear and are often used in traditional Japanese homes, especially in the hot and humid summer months.
Tabi sandals have a flat sole and a rubberized bottom, making them suitable for wearing outdoors as well.
4. Birkenstock Sandals
Birkenstock sandals have gained popularity in Japan, especially among younger generations. These sandals have a contoured footbed made of cork and latex, which offers superior comfort and support to the wearer.
They come in a variety of styles, including the classic two-strap design and the more modern slip-on styles.
5. Gladiator Sandals
Gladiator sandals have also gained popularity in Japan, particularly among fashion-conscious young women.
These sandals have multiple straps that wrap around the foot and ankle, providing both style and support. They come in various designs, including those with studs and intricate patterns.
6. Flip Flops
Flip flops, also known as “beach sandals” in Japan, are a popular choice for casual wear. They are simple, comfortable, and come in various styles, including ones with patterns and bright colors. Flip flops are often worn during the summer months, particularly when visiting the beach or pool.
7. Jika-tabi Sandals
Jika-tabi sandals are a hybrid of traditional Japanese tabi socks and Western-style sandals. They have a rubberized sole that is suitable for outdoor wear, and the upper part is made of cloth, usually canvas or denim.
They are a popular choice for outdoor activities, especially hiking and gardening, as they provide better protection and grip than regular sandals.
8. Waraji Sandals
Waraji sandals are traditional straw sandals worn by Japanese farmers and samurai during the feudal era.
Today, they are mostly worn during festivals and traditional events, but they have gained popularity among fashion enthusiasts as well.
Waraji sandals are made of rice straw, which is woven into a flat sole and secured to the foot with cloth straps.
9. Platform Sandals
Platform sandals are a trendy footwear option in Japan, particularly among young women. They have a raised sole, which adds height to the wearer and gives a fashionable edge to any outfit.
They come in various designs, from simple two-strap styles to more elaborate ones with bows and embellishments.
10. Huarache Sandals
Huarache sandals are a Mexican-inspired footwear option that has become popular in Japan in recent years.
They have woven leather upper and a flat sole, which makes them comfortable and breathable. They come in various colors and designs, and they are suitable for both casual and formal wear.
11. Clogs
Clogs, also known as “kutsu” in Japan, are wooden shoes with a raised platform at the back. They have a strap that goes over the top of the foot and come in various designs, including those with intricate patterns and decorations.
Clogs are commonly worn by Japanese chefs, but they have become a popular fashion statement as well.
12. Crocs
Crocs are a popular footwear option worldwide, and Japan is no exception. They are made of rubber and come in various colors and designs, including ones with cartoon characters and popular logos.
Crocs are comfortable and suitable for various activities, from casual wear to outdoor sports.
13. Slides
Slide sandals are a simple and comfortable footwear option that has gained popularity in Japan. They have a flat sole and a strap that goes over the top of the foot.
Slides come in various materials, including rubber and leather, and they are suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear.
14. Espadrilles
Espadrilles shoes are a lightweight and breathable footwear option that originated in Spain. They have a woven upper and a jute sole, which makes them comfortable and perfect for warm weather.
Espadrilles come in various colors and designs, including those with embroidery and lace-up details.
15. Sneaker Sandals
Sneaker sandals, also known as “sandals with socks,” are a trendy footwear option in Japan. They are a hybrid of sneakers and sandals, and they are perfect for those who want the comfort and support of sneakers but the breathability of sandals.
Women’s Sneaker sandals come in various designs, from classic white sneakers with a sandal-like upper to more elaborate ones with patterns and bright colors.
16. Wooden Sandals
Wooden sandals, or “okobo” in Japanese, are a traditional footwear option that has been worn in Japan for centuries. They have a wooden base that elevates the wearer and a strap that goes over the top of the foot.
Wooden sandals come in various designs, from simple ones worn by farmers to elaborate ones worn by geisha.
17. Fisherman Sandals
Fisherman sandals, also known as “athletic sandals,” are a popular footwear option in Japan. They are made of leather or synthetic material and have a closed toe and an adjustable strap that goes over the top of the foot. Fisherman sandals are suitable for outdoor activities, from hiking to water sports.
18. Mule Sandals
Mule sandals are a slip-on footwear option that has gained popularity in Japan. They have a closed toe and an open back, which makes them easy to slip on and off.
Mule sandals come in various materials, including leather and suede, and they are suitable for both casual and formal wear.
19. High-Heeled Sandals
High-heeled sandals are a fashionable footwear option in Japan, particularly among women. They have a high heel that elevates the wearer and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.
High-heeled sandals come in various designs, from classic stilettos to chunky platforms, and they are suitable for formal events and parties.
Final words
Sandals play an essential role in Japanese culture and fashion. From traditional Geta and Zori sandals to modern Birkenstock and Gladiator sandals, Japan offers a wide range of options for every taste and style.
Whether you are looking for a casual or formal look, Japan has the perfect sandal for you. So, when you visit Japan, don’t forget to explore the fantastic world of Japanese sandals.
