Best Shoes from Japan to Wear for The Summer
Thuy Fang
Summer brings a burst of energy and exciting outdoor activities. Choosing the right footwear to match that lively atmosphere is always important. Have you ever considered summer shoes from Japan? They come in a wide range of types and unique designs! Let’s discover five popular must-have names together!
Onitsuka Tiger MEXICO 66 SD
The Onitsuka Tiger MEXICO 66 SD is a unique pair of shoes that mixes old-school charm with smart new updates. This sneaker was first seen back in 1968 in Mexico City. It still keeps its famous retro look, with the iconic Onitsuka Tiger stripes and the unique crisscross heel design that fans love. But now has a sleek and fresh upgrade, making it feel extra special!
The upper part is made with waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex fabric. It keeps your feet dry on rainy days and lets them breathe during hot summer walks. The amplifoam in the heel gives extra bounce, so every step feels light and smooth. Plus, the inside is also soft and comfy.
The MEXICO 66 SD comes in various fun colors, from classic white-and-gold to bold two-tone shades. The metal eyelets and slim laces make it look neat and stylish. And the soft leather or calfskin material gives it a smooth, high-quality feel. You can match it with jeans, shorts, or a summer dress!
Tiger Hill Uni
The Tiger Hill Uni sneaker from Flower Mountain is like a little adventure for your feet! Born from a love of nature and fashion, this shoe brings the outdoors into your everyday look. Its name makes you think of climbing a peaceful hill covered in flowers. Designed with a breathable mesh upper and soft on-tone suede accents, it keeps your feet cool and happy even on hot summer days. The knitted heel area adds extra comfort and hugs your foot just right!
The design is full of clever and beautiful details! Tiny floral cutouts feel like secret garden surprises, and the chunky EVA sole looks super cool and provides great support and bounce with every step. Trekking-style laces and reinforced eyelets also add a sporty twist.
Colors like beige, light blue–purple, purple–orange, and blue–grey are bright, cheerful, and scream summer! These shades make every outfit pop and bring energy to outdoor fun.
Are you looking for snacks to enjoy during the summer? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, snacks, drinks, and sweets right to your door, so you can enjoy the latest treats directly from Japan!
Suicoke Moto
Suicoke started as a creative brand with a love for design, yet it quickly became famous worldwide for its awesome sandals. The Moto style is one of their most loved pairs—it mixes streetwear fashion with smart function. This sandal is made with high-quality materials, including durable synthetic fabric. It has two Velcro straps that you can adjust to fit your feet just right, plus a soft and supportive footbed made with EVA or Vibram foam.
The chunky outsole with ridged grooves gives great grip and keeps your steps steady, whether walking in the city or heading to the beach. There’s no back strap, so you can easily slip them on and off. They are great for playing outside, hanging with friends, or running quick errands. Basic colors like white, gray, navy, and red easily match shorts, joggers, or casual skirts. Since all Suicoke styles are unisex, anyone can rock them!
Zori sandals
Zori are traditional Japanese sandals that have been worn for centuries, and they’re still loved today. These flat sandals have a simple design with a thong-style strap that goes between your big toe and second toe, just like flip-flops! They were originally made with rice straw or soft rush grass on top, which feels cool and refreshing. Underneath, there’s a rubber sole that helps you walk without slipping.
Even though zori started as shoes for wearing with a kimono, today they come in lots of fun and comfy styles for all kinds of outfits. Some are made with cloth, leather, or vinyl, and you can find them in all sorts of colors, from soft beige and brown to brighter shades with cute patterns. You can wear them casually like shorts, jeans, or summer dresses, or keep it traditional with a kimono or yukata at festivals.
Tabi shoes
Tabi shoes are one-of-a-kind Japanese shoes with a split-toe design, like a mitten for your feet! They feature soft soles that help absorb shock when you walk and waterproof and airy materials, perfect for both sunny days and summer rain!
One of the coolest things about these shoes is that you can flip them inside out. You can also leave a few clasps open to show off a lovely pop of color on the inside. They add a stylish twist to any outfit with choices such as blue, orange, or black!
Why should you own a pair of summer shoes from Japan?
Choosing summer shoes from Japan brings tradition, innovation, and thoughtful design together in perfect harmony. Each pair carries a story, from centuries-old zori sandals woven with soft grass to modern sneakers blending comfort and style. With vivid colors and intricate details, Japanese summer footwear brings joy to every step and playful touch to any outfit.
Whether wandering busy city streets or strolling along a quiet beach, these designs combine function, fun, and cultural charm in every pair. Which Japanese shoes would you love to try first this summer? Let me know in the comments!