Geta are wooden clogs, and the type of wood used significantly alters their comfort and impression. This affects not only their appearance but also their weight, texture, and how they feel on your feet.
Historically, common geta were made from lightweight and soft paulownia or cedar wood.
Differences by Wood Type
Paulownia is extremely light, impervious to moisture, excellent at temperature regulation, and resists warping during processing.
Cedar offers lightness and softness, in addition to being impact-resistant. Its availability also made it a suitable material for geta.
In contrast, mizutori geta use woods such as mahogany and hinoki (Japanese cypress).
Mahogany has a moderate weight and stability, with an attractive subdued color and beautiful grain.
Known as a durable wood used for luxury furniture and musical instruments, its smooth texture and rich appearance give geta a refined impression. Furthermore, by using wood from sustainably managed plantations, we also prioritize environmental consideration.
Hinoki is a highly durable wood suited to Japan's climate, and its gentle fragrance and smooth texture are cherished by many Japanese people.
At mizutori, we use thinned hinoki wood from local Shizuoka Prefecture, an initiative that conserves forest resources by making full use of materials and contributes to forest preservation.
Weight and Comfort
We sometimes receive comments about the weight from those accustomed to paulownia geta.
However, a certain amount of weight can provide stability when walking, making it easier to move your feet. In fact, mizutori geta are designed to fit securely on the foot, so you rarely feel their weight when walking, leading to a reassuring sense of comfort.
Enjoying the Individuality of Wood
No two pieces of wood are exactly alike; each possesses a unique character. The way the color and texture change with use and how they conform to your feet is a unique charm of wooden geta.
Focusing on the material might change how you perceive and choose geta. Why not incorporate them into your daily wear and enjoy the texture and changes of the wood?
