Zori

The zori developed after the waraji and can be made of a wider variety of materials depending on intended use. Simple rice straw zori are suitable for everyday wear, while brocaded silk zori are frequently worn for weddings and other special events.

Nikai Zori

These velvet-covered double rice straw-soled zori with velvet straps are betrothal sandals. These are a special gift a man gives to a woman at the time of their engagement. The two-layered sole is symbolic of their union.

Geta

Geta are wooden sandals which often have a woven tatami insole for extra comfort. More expensive versions of geta are cut from single pieces of wood, while less expensive ones have added teeth, which are fitted into grooves. Geta first became fashionable in the bustling urban centres of the Edo period (1603-1867). When geta production became industrialized in the Meiji period (1868-1912) they become more economically accessible to everyone.

Lacquered Geta

Lacquer is used on a variety of Japanese decorative objects, including geta. Made from the resin of a tree distantly related to poison ivy, Japanese lacquer is painted onto the geta surface in successive coats. The metal piece covering the knot of the strap underneath is called the mae-gane.

Tabi

Tabi are socks with a separation between the large toe and the rest of the toes, which allow the thong straps of traditional sandals to comfortably fit the foot. Tabi are the only foot coverings traditionally permitted on the tatami mat-covered floors inside Japanese houses. Although today most tabi are made of cotton, these are made of deerskin.