Stride with Class: The Comeback of Handmade Japanese Sandals (Setta)
- mikster
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Setta（雪駄）may be Japan’s most "Forgotten Normal". Traditionally worn by travelers, merchants, and samurai, these Japanese sandals embody centuries of quiet refinement, ergonomic design, and cultural style. Today, we proudly revive that legacy with the launch of our curated collection of handcrafted Japanese sandals known as setta - handmade in Nara, the historic heart of Japan’s footwear craftsmanship.
What are setta?
Setta are traditional Japanese sandals designed for outdoor use, known for their slimmer profile and refined aesthetic. Their design is intentional—built for comfort, made to last, and worn with understated elegance.
A Footstep Through Time and Craftsmanship
Some believe the origin of setta traces back to Sen no Rikyu, the renowned wabicha tea ceremony master, or his circle. Tea ceremony guests often had to cross snowy or rain-soaked gardens before entering a teahouse, traditionally in wooden geta. The addition of a leather sole to straw sandals was said to help keep the feet dry without disturbing the snow's aesthetic with messy footprints.
From there, setta quickly gained popularity among tea masters and cultured townspeople, eventually becoming a symbol of sophistication.
The Sound of Style: "Chara-Chara"
One of the most charming features of traditional setta is the metal hardware called chara-gane. Originally a flat iron plate affixed to the heel—similar to tap shoes in the West—chara-gane produced a rhythmic clapping sound with each step. This “chara-chara” became a status symbol during the Edo period, associated with refinement and confidence.
Setta became the footwear of choice for samurai, kabuki actors, monks, and high-ranking sumo wrestlers. Police officers were also said to favor chara-gane heels for their ability to announce presence while patrolling.
As setta evolved, the flat iron plates were replaced with horseshoe-shaped metal pins, providing grip while preserving the iconic sound. A few makers in Japan still offer the original steel plate versions, but most modern chara-gane setta strike a balance between tradition and wearability.
Nara: More Than Deer and the Big Buddha
While today’s Nara is known for its sacred deer and the Great Buddha, it has another legacy: setta-making. As early as the 17th century, farmers in Nara crafted straw sandals as a side job. Over time, the city became renowned for producing foot straps (hanao) and various styles of traditional sandals.
At its peak, Nara produced over 80% of Japan’s footwear. Postwar modernization reduced the demand for traditional setta, leading many makers to shift toward Western-style shoes. A lack of successors in handmade setta further accelerated the decline of this craft.
We have built a partnership with Sakagawa, a four-generation family business that was first established in Nara’s historic setta district in the 1950s. Over the decades, they have witnessed the evolution of Japan’s footwear industry. Although it has become increasingly difficult to source traditional materials and find skilled artisans, their love for this beautiful and humble craft drives their commitment to continue and evolve this deeply rooted tradition of setta-making.
Made for Modern Strides
Setta is still common in Japan especially during the humid summer and in various matsuri festivals. From artisanal jeans to smart casual styles, young generation and fashionistas find creative ways to pair their settas. To bring setta into the present, thoughtful enhancements were added to improve comfort, durability, and style—without compromising tradition.
Ergonomic Construction – Mass-market setta's foot straps are placed on-center so there is no differentiation in left-foot or right-foot shoe (the sandal looks symmetrical). Our straps are offset to define left-right foot and enhance ergonomic comfort.
Timeless Materials – Choose from cowhide leather soles or rubber undersoles. Upholstery fabrics for the base and the strap were selected to embrace the rich cultural and textile history of Japan. (Okayama denim, Niigata hemp linen etc.)
Refined Silhouette – Whether it's the iconic oval-shape or the modern tapered-toe shape, the low profile, and minimalist lines create a versatile shape that pairs with anything from tailored pants to summer dresses.
Whether you pair them with jeans, linen trousers, a summer dress, these setta are designed to stride with class—a subtle fusion of heritage and style. And don't be shy to "chara-chara" down the street to show some Japanese setta attitude!
Try Setta Japanese Sandals and Walk the Line Between Heritage and Style
Setta are more than footwear—they're a living expression of Japanese craftsmanship. Whether you're new to the world of Japanese fashion or a long-time admirer, this collection offers something rare: tradition that walks confidently into modern life.
We invite you to explore our handcrafted setta, designed for those who value tradition, comfort, and confident simplicity.
Pre-launch Offer: Get 10% Discount on setta sandals, from May 13 to May 30 2025
ARE YOU READY FOR SUMMER? Make this a Happy Feet Summer.
Celebrating the launch of Japanese setta sandals, we offer 10% discount on all setta purchase, until May 30, 2025. Members / Subscriber of Goenne, check your email for 10% discount code!
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