mizutori creates modern Japanese wooden sandals (geta) designed for comfort and everyday wear.
Episode 7
The Story Behind the Name “hitete”
In this episode, we would like to share the story behind the name hitete — one of mizutori’s signature heeled geta.
When we first began creating heeled geta, they did not yet have a proper name.
We simply referred to them by heel height: the 4.5 cm version as “mid-heel geta,” and the 6.5 cm version as “high-heel geta.”
Soon, however, we felt that the product deserved a name of its own.
The first official name we chose was “SENSE.”
The name carried two meanings:
geta that could complement a refined sense of style, and footwear that would allow the wearer to feel true comfort.
“SENSE” remained in use until 2018, so some of you may remember it.
Then, in 2019, as we reorganized our product lineup, we decided it was time for a new name: “hitete.”
Many people initially read it as “hee-teh-teh,” but it is actually pronounced “hai-teh-teh.”
A Name Filled with Many Stories
Choosing this new name was not a simple process.
Everyone in the company participated — sharing ideas, discussing possibilities, and even voting.
What we wanted to express was simple yet heartfelt:
We hope our customers will wear these geta and truly enjoy going out — freely and comfortably.
The name hitete also carries several warm memories.
Long ago, when the previous president recommended geta at sales events, he would always say with a smile:
“Haite tte goran!” (“Go ahead — try wearing them!”)
We also often heard customers say:
“These feel so comfortable when I’m wearing them.”
There is even a small international twist to the story.
Our executive director, whose native language is French, once pointed out that “été” means “summer” in French — and joked that “hit ete” might become a product that hits in summer.
Perhaps it sounds like a playful coincidence.
But all of these thoughts, wishes, and shared memories came together in the name “hitete.”
Just as when naming a child, the name carries deep affection.
This summer, we invite you to step out in hitete — and enjoy your everyday moments in comfort.
