USHIWAKA Special Feature Vol. 2: We fundamentally changed the structure of the thongs.

Hello, this is Morishima, the manager of Nanafu.

Last time, I talked about "why we decided to make setta sandals." This time, I'd like to delve a little deeper and specifically explain how USHIWAKA differs from existing setta sandals.

Previous article:
USHIWAKA Special Feature ① Why did Nanafu decide to make setta sandals?

 

Why are setta sandals so tiring?

I personally like the design of setta sandals.
Their appearance, atmosphere, and the special feeling of wearing something Japanese.
However, whenever I actually wore them and walked for a long time, I always regretted it (bitter laugh).
When I wore a yukata to a festival, the walk home was tough.
Even though I bought them, they'd be at the back of my shoe cabinet by the next summer—
And even now, I have setta sandals sleeping unworn.

As I investigated why this happens with KUTSUNE, our joint development partner,
the cause became clear.

It was a structure where body weight was supported by only the tip of the thong.

This structure caused more problems than I had imagined.

• The thong digs into the toes and hurts
• Heels lift up, making walking feel awkward
• A flapping sound with every step, which is somewhat bothersome
• They slip dangerously on wet cobblestones
• Ultimately, they are hard to coordinate with Western clothes

All of these were structural problems, weren't they?
Even if you change the material or devise the design,
it won't be resolved unless this shape (structure) changes.

When I realized that,
it clicked, "So that's why no one has properly solved it until now."

I want you to compare the two structures side by side.

I think it's quicker to show you a diagram than to explain it in words.

Traditional Setta Gripping the thong only with the toes. Weight concentrates on one point.

USHIWAKA The loop holds the entire instep. Weight is distributed across the entire foot.

As you can see, USHIWAKA is designed so that the thong is in a loop shape, supporting the body weight across the entire instep.
Since the load is distributed, pain does not concentrate in one place.
Since the heel doesn't lift, walking becomes natural.

The solution KUTSUNE arrived at

When I first saw this idea, I thought, "This is it."
The dissatisfaction that Nanafu had vaguely felt for many years was being properly addressed by the structure. It wasn't just a feeling; it was a physical solution. I remember how happy I was about that.

Furthermore, a slide mechanism is also employed at the front of the thong (maetsubo) and the outer part. The thong automatically adjusts to the width and shape of the foot, so it naturally fits without being particular about foot shape. This is also a subtle but important point.

"Easy to put on, yet they don't come off."

It sounds contradictory, but it truly works.
You'll immediately understand this sensation once you actually put them on.
(Currently, KUTSUNE is patenting the "loop thong structure that prevents heels from lifting.")

I think a video demonstrating how to put them on and take them off will convey it better than words.

Just slip your feet in. But they won't come off even when you walk.

There's a reason behind every material used

I feel like the structural explanation is sufficient, but since we're here, I'll touch a little on the materials we're particular about.

── Upper: Sheepskin

We use carefully selected sheepskin for the upper. Sheepskin is about half the weight of cowhide and has a soft, skin-hugging feel. It's breathable and less likely to cause blisters.

Furthermore, it has a fine, delicate, high-quality feel and becomes soft and conforms to the shape of your foot the more you wear it. It's a material you'll love more after six months than when you first started using it. We aimed for setta sandals that would become a beloved partner as they age.

── Insole: Two-layer high-rebound cushioning

The insole contains two layers of high-rebound cushioning. It slowly sinks when you step on it and then firmly springs back. The sensation is completely different from a typical setta sole, making me think "Is this really setta?" the first time I stepped on it (laughs).

I also like that it's resistant to sagging, so the comfort doesn't change much even after long-term use.

── Sole: Vibram® (Made in Italy)

We use Vibram soles (Italy). It's the sole often seen on hiking boots. It has high grip and durability, making it less likely to slip on wet cobblestones. You won't be scared walking on the cobblestones of Asakusa even after the rain.

Also, it can be repaired and re-soled if it wears out. I think that's rare for setta sandals. When considering "a pair that can be used for a long time," this was a must-have.

*Vibram® is a registered trademark of Vibram S.p.A.

The reactions of those who tried them on were the most honest.

When people actually tried them on at the fitting event, I was nervous, wondering if it would truly come across—

*These are individual opinions of participants at the fitting event.

As the creators, I was honestly relieved that it "really resonated."

Next time, I'll tell you what days and occasions USHIWAKA can be used for.