What are Japanese sandals called? What's the difference between Setta and Geta?
- mikster
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Traditional Japanese sandals are not only iconic in appearance but also rich in cultural meaning. From occasions that call for kimono attire (like matsuri and tea ceremonies) to modern minimalist fashion, these sandals have evolved over centuries to become both a symbol of heritage and a stylish statement. If you've ever wondered what Japanese sandals are called or the difference between setta and geta, you're not alone.
What Are Japanese Sandals called?
Traditional Japanese sandals have several styles: geta, zōri, waraji, and setta. While they all share similar elements—a flat sole, thong-style strap (hanao), and open-toe design—each has a unique structure and cultural use.
Waraji is grass or straw woven sandals secured with strings around the ankle. Worn by commoners from farmers to monks. They are hand-woven by farmers during off-farming seasons and provides a secondary source of income for the families. They are practical, breathable, suited to Japan's humid summers. Waraji has also become a symbol for humble and frugal living. Buddhist monks and Shinto yamabushi (mountain worshipper) wears rustic straw sandals during pilgrimage involving long walks and hikes in rough terrain.
Some rural countryside towns still produces woven zori, mostly as souvenirs.
Zori translate to grass/straw shoes. The sole is usually woven with jute or straw, and multiple woven soles would be stacked to create a low platform with the heel slightly inclined. Zori is now known as women's sandals. Some zori are upholstered with leather or textile so the woven material are hidden. With its elegant, rounded and elevated platform, zori are worn with formal kimono attire, for attending various formal events like tea ceremonies, weddings, ikebana gatherings, shrine rituals etc...
Today, the most recognized forms are geta and setta, each with distinct construction and cultural associations. These are the most versatile sandals worn with traditional clothing like kimono and yukata ropes, and increasingly styled with modern outfits.
What Is Geta?
Geta (下駄) are traditional Japanese sandals featuring a thick wooden base and usually two elevated "teeth" or platforms (called ha) on the bottom. This design was practical: it raised the wearer's foot off the ground to avoid mud, dirt, or snow. Probably Japan's first high-heel shoes. Since they are made with solid wood, they are hard on the feet, and heavy to lift. The loud clacking sound they make while walking is part of their identity. Some geta styles are flat-bottomed, resembling Western clogs, but the double-tooth design remains the most iconic.
In fact, over a 1000 years ago, monks and mountain ascetics would wear 20cm (8 inches) single-tooth geta for training. It is believe standing, hiking and walking on these single-tooth wood geta will train ones posture and build strong core and sense of balance. (No doubt..., it's like walking on stilts.) It is a rare footwear that still exists in Japan. Check out this Facebook Group dedicated to single-tooth geta to see people exercise in these unique sandals.
From pragmatic use, wood geta also evolved into a fashion statement. Trainee Geisha would wear tall 3-teeth geta called Okobo when strolling down the street. Some could be as tall as 13cm (5-6 inches) in height for high-ranking geisha. The purpose is to elevate the courtesan's status, create a unique elegance stance and keep the hem of the elaborate kimono off the ground. Watch the movie "Memoirs of A Geisha" (2005) to see the special geta. Formal geta is now commonly refered to women sandals.
What Is Setta?
Setta (雪駄) are a refined type of traditional Japanese sandal made with a flatter, lower profile sole. The origin of setta is often attributed to tea master Sen no Rikyū, who sought practical footwear for snowy or rainy seasons, where the leather sole keep guests' feet dry and allowed them to walk through gardens without slipping and leaving unsightly footprints in the snow.
Setta were also adopted by monks and samurai for their dignified yet practical design. Over time, they became popular among townspeople and artisans as an everyday sandal. The use of metal heel pins (chara-gane)—which produce the distinctive chara-chara sound when walking—became a fashionable and refined auditory signature, especially during the Edo period. Setta has since become gender-specific referring to mens' sandals.
Today, modern handmade setta Japanese sandals preserve this traditional construction while incorporating upgraded features like ergonomic footbeds, enhanced cushioning, breathable fabrics, water-resistant materials and rubber soles. Settas are adopted as UNISEX, to wear with various clothing styles, whether with casual summer yukata kimonos, as guests slippers in Japanese inns, or expressive styling with modern fashion. The sleek profile and angular form makes them chic and classy.
Setta are the most versatile, and well-suited to both traditional and casual modern wear.
Which Should You Wear?
For formal Japanese-look for traditional events, geta is more appropriate. They're visually elegant and pair perfectly with kimono.
If you want something versatile, lighter, more comfortable, and wearable day-to-day, handmade setta Japanese sandals are an ideal choice. They're breathable, stylish, and come in both traditional and updated forms. They're also easier to style with modern fashion, from jeans to summer dresses.
Many of today’s setta are made with thoughtful touches like rubber soles, cushioned heel pads, and water-resistant uppers—perfect for summer wear. What about winter? Traditionally, setta are all-season footwear. Put on some socks and you are ready to go!
We invite you to explore our collection of handmade setta Japanese sandals, crafted in Nara by heritage artisans. Each pair blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design, so you can walk with both comfort and intention.
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