Japanese Unique Sandals: Zori

These Japanese flip-flops turn out to be elements of the richest and most interesting culture you know. Japan is one of the countries that become a world tourist destination because the country is the most beautiful. Also, Japan is rich in the traditions and cultures of the unique relics of the past, one of which is in the affairs of Fashion. Do you know traditional Japanese sandals made from rice straw or plant fiber? Yes, the name of the shoe is Zori. Zori is Japanese sandals in the flat and frayed design created from rice straw or other plant fibers.

Also, there are zori created from fabric, lacquered wood, leather, or even synthetic materials. Zori was most popular in his time to the point that during World War II many countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the United States created imitations of these sandals, but with the basic ingredients of rubber and are known by different names. In the 1950s the zori-making factory in Japan concluded to work on exporting zori with rubber material to accommodate Westerners’ feet.

Zori has a flat design, and there are no ‘teeth’ underneath (supporting pieces of wood attached to the soles of sandals). Meanwhile, at the top of the Zori sandals, there is a hook for the location of the toes called ‘Hanao’ which is created from fabric. When wearing it, Hanao will isolate the thumb from the other finger.

In addition to Zori, there are also other typical Japanese sandals known as Geta. Geta is a traditional Japanese scandal that has existed since 1970. The uniqueness of geta sandals is the distinctive sound of ‘klotak klotak’ which is often issued when used. Geta is a famous wooden slipper mainly because of the “teeth” that will come in direct contact with the ground when used walking.

Although rare, some gums do not have ‘teeth’ but are both created from wood, known as Pokkuri geta. Pokkuri Geta has a footprint that was created thick and is commonly used by Maiko (the term for beginner Geisha) as well as all the girls for the Sichi Go San event.

Zori is commonly used when wearing Japanese formal kimono clothes, and the surface elements are often coated with leather, cloth, or vinyl. In ancient times, not a few people use ‘wara zori’ (zori sandals) created from woven straw. Before the design of shoes became popular, during this time, the farmers weaved their sandals in residence called “waraji” and were used as footwear when working.

Zori also has a variety of designs that suit your needs. Zori women who are used to work are always created big on the heels with rounded soles, to the point that they are more like ordinary sandals. Meanwhile, for zori men, created a little round and flat. For marriages, zori women want to use ornate brocade and combined with kimono.

At first, GETA was not designed for fashion needs. Instead, geta is used with a destination to facilitate mobilization when they have to wear kimono. Kimono usually has a format that extends and hangs up to the ankles, therefore, by using geta, kimono will not be dragged by mud or snow

In modern times, geta is often used when wearing a yukata. This is felt like a symbol of summer folk parties and summer fireworks folk parties. Sushi traders and chefs traditionally wear the highest geta to guard the distance between them and the leftovers on the floor. Sometimes these people even use gums that have only one tooth (positioned right in the middle of the sole of the shoe) called tengu-geta.

Even though it is a little contradictory to the design of the sandal, the technique of using zori and geta remains the same as ordinary beach sandals. But for those of you who aren’t used to it, of course, it will be seen that the most difficult to get transported goes. This assumption is not wrong, because it takes a little practice before finally, all young Japanese women can take place using the geta.

Well, that is not a lot of reviews related to Zori and Geta, if you are on or going on a trip to Japan, Zori and Geta can be an appropriate option for souvenirs typical of the land of sakura.