There is a reason we sew our flip-flops. The stitching helps prevent peeling, reduces deformation, and improves long-term comfort. Instead of relying only on adhesive, we reinforce the structure with stitches. The difference may not be obvious at first glance, but it appears after long use.stuff

Each pair of Tsukumo flip-flops is sewn by craftsmen. Using a sewing machine does not mean the work is automatic. The pressure, the way the fabric is guided, the spacing of each stitch — even a small difference affects comfort and durability. This is why this process belongs to people, not machines.stuff

At first, these sewn fabric flip-flops were not our main product. But their careful stitching, small-lot production, and consistent quality were gradually accepted by the market. Over time, they grew into one of Tsukumo’s core products.stuff

Sewn flip-flops are not suitable for mass production. Each pair is sewn one by one, carefully adjusted by hand. From an efficiency standpoint, it is not an advantage. But this process allows us to change materials, test colors, and produce small batches. Tsukumo chose certainty over quantitystuff

To be honest, it would be easier to make them overseas. Lower costs. Larger quantities. But Tsukumo still makes flip-flops in Japan. Because we need the distance where we can think, test, adjust, and remake — all while we are making them. For us, craftsmanship is not about speed. It is about certainty. That isstuff

Each flip-flop strap is cut by hand, one by one. In Nagata, Kobe, natural rubber straps are molded using heat and pressure. Today, this is the only factory in Japan that still uses this method. The molds can no longer be reproduced, so they are carefully maintained and used. Ten straps come out at astuff

Not mass-produced. Made by hand. In Japan, a small number of craftsmen still make flip-flops by hand, one pair at a time. With only two parts — the sole and the strap — balance, pressure, and experience matter. Simple doesn’t mean easy. This is footwear made to support everyday life.stuff

Beach sandals were born here. In Nagata, Kobe — this is where Japanese beach sandals first took shape. Simple. Functional. Honest. Made from rubber, shaped by hands, and still quietly made in Japan today. This spot marks the boundary between the present and the origin. Not just footwear. A story you can wear.stuff

JUDO was the brand name of Japanese beach sandals exported to Italy 30 years ago. Today, we no longer export overseas. But the name — and the spirit — remain. Comfort. Durability. And craftsmanship made in Japan. Someday, we hope to share the quality of Japanese-made beach sandals with the world again.stuff

From beach sandals to market development. I once believed products sold because of where they were made. What I learned instead was this: products are chosen because of how they are positioned and communicated. Materials, variety, specialization, and story. The same thinking applies to both products and businesses.stuff