Artifact of the Month: Tabi Socks (May 2022)

Have you seen socks like this before? Tabi socks are usually worn in Japanese traditional dress and often in conjunction with kimonos, as well as in casual dress. The first tabi were actually shoes made of leather that evolved into two versions – one is the sock-type represented here and the other an outdoor version that included reinforcement on the sole, traditionally made of cloth, leather, or straw. Today, they have leather soles and are called jika-tabi, or tabi boots. Some types are worn by laborers such as construction workers, farmer, and gardeners, whereas “ninja tabi” are marketed for cosplay and everyday use. High fashion versions are also available, the most notable designer being Martin Margiela who debuted his creations in the 1980s.

Both traditionally and today, tabi like this are worn with thonged shoes such as zori and geta. Zori are flat sandals made from rice straw or lacquered wood and worn with a kimono for formal occasions. Geta are raised wooden clogs worn with kimonos and other traditional Japanese garments.

Would you consider wearing tabi? What type would you choose?