Japanese traditional training sandals〝Totonou zori”
Totonou Zori — Balance Begins from Your Feet
Totonou Zori is a brand of Ashinaka sandals handcrafted by FUKUROU.
By wearing them, you can reconnect with the natural movement of your feet
and become more aware of the arch—an essential part of your body’s balance.
Perfect for those who don’t have time for exercise
or find it difficult to maintain a routine.
Easily incorporate them into your daily life as indoor footwear.
Create a simple habit of balance, effortlessly.
Recommended for
- Those looking to improve their sense of balance
- Individuals seeking relief from lower back pain, shoulder stiffness, and similar discomforts
- Those prone to stumbling frequently
- Individuals concerned about swelling
- Those looking to address foot issues such as bunion, hammer toe, corns, bow legs, knee pain, hip joint pain, overlapping toes, flat feet, splayfoot
The Importance of Half-toe Sandals
As more people walk on paved, firm roads, indoors with smooth floors, and with thick-soled shoes, there is a growing trend of not using the toes while walking.
When the toes are not actively engaged, the muscular strength supporting the entire body weight (arch function) tends to weaken, leading to an increased risk of falling and various foot
issues.
Stimulate the soles of your feet appropriately to reclaim the "arch function" and enhance overall foot strength!
History
It seems that these sandals have been worn since the Kamakura period, continuing through the post-war era and up to recent years.
According to historical records, Oda Nobunaga is documented to have given them to his vassals, as mentioned in the "Nobunaga Koki," a historical account of Oda Nobunaga. In contemporary times,
practitioners of cormorant fishing in Gifu Prefecture still wear them.
In fact, the statue of Saigo Takamori in Ueno Park is shown wearing sandals with the heel exposed.
Footwear like Ashinaka was once a natural part of everyday life in Japan.
How to Wear
There is a specific orientation for the left and right foot (the right foot has a strap attached).
As shown in the photo above, insert each toe into the thong, letting the entire toe extend beyond the sandal, and place the heel on the ground!
Create a natural arch, so there's no need to exert force on the toes. If it feels tight or difficult to put on, gently stretch the thong before wearing.
After wearing them for a while, take off the sandals and stand on a hard surface.
You may experience a unique sensation, as if walking on a soft carpet, feeling your feet sink into the ground. Please enjoy this "resetting sensation" in your feet.
About Our sandal Materials
Materials shape not only the look, but also the experience.
Our sandal are designed to keep the same comfortable feel,
while allowing you to enjoy the unique character of each material.
Totonou Zori are available in three different material options.
Cotton × Japanese Dye
An easy, everyday pair
Soft, lightweight, and easy to wear.
A classic material chosen for everyday use.
Carefully dyed with Japanese-made dyes,
the cotton has a gentle tone that blends naturally into any lifestyle.
A popular choice as a first pair.
👉 Recommended for first-time users
Recycled Fabric from miik yoga
Ayurvedic Dyed
A special pair finished with Ayurvedic dyeing
Crafted using a unique fabric dyed by Inochi no
Koromo,
with herbs and spices sourced from South India.
A blend of around 20 natural ingredients—including hemp charcoal, herbal charcoal, black cumin, and myrobalan—
is carefully prepared and slowly infused into the fabric.
Currently available only in Elephant Gray.
Within its calm, muted tone lies a quiet strength.
👉 For those seeking balance in body and mind
👉 For those who are mindful of electromagnetic exposure
Choose Your Pair
