The History of Tsukihoshi: Comfort and Innovation Since 1873

Introduction

Tsukihoshi, a renowned Japanese footwear brand, has been offering comfort, style, and innovation since its inception in 1873. With over a century of experience, Tsukihoshi has established itself as a household name, creating quality shoes for children and adults alike. In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating history of Tsukihoshi, exploring its beginnings, growth, and commitment to excellence in shoe design.

A Humble Beginning: The Birth of Tsukihoshi

The story of Tsukihoshi began in the small town of Kojima in Okayama, Japan. In 1873, Tsukihoshi's founder, Shigesaburo Mizuno, set up a small workshop to produce traditional Japanese footwear, known as "tabi." As demand for these unique shoes grew, Mizuno expanded his workshop and continued to innovate, creating new designs and refining the quality of his products.

Tabi to Modern Shoes: Pioneering Innovation

In the 20th century, Tsukihoshi shifted its focus from traditional tabi to modern shoe design. The company embraced the evolution of footwear by incorporating new materials, such as synthetic rubber and nylon, in their manufacturing processes. In 1967, Tsukihoshi introduced its first machine-washable athletic shoe, setting the stage for the brand's future success in the footwear industry.

Tsukihoshi's Growth: Expanding Horizons

The 1980s marked a significant turning point for Tsukihoshi as the brand expanded beyond the borders of Japan. With a keen eye for global trends, Tsukihoshi opened its first overseas store in the United States in 1986. The company's innovative approach to shoe design and commitment to quality quickly won over consumers worldwide, propelling Tsukihoshi to new heights.

Children's Footwear: A New Focus

In the 1990s, Tsukihoshi shifted its focus to children's footwear, aiming to provide comfortable and functional shoes for growing feet. This decision was based on the understanding that proper foot care during childhood is essential for long-term health and well-being. Tsukihoshi's children's shoes are designed with a focus on flexibility, breathability, and support, helping to ensure proper foot development.

The Barefoot Concept: Embracing Natural Movement

At the core of Tsukihoshi's design philosophy is the "barefoot concept." This innovative approach emphasizes the importance of allowing feet to move as naturally as possible, without the constraints of overly rigid shoes. To achieve this, Tsukihoshi shoes feature lightweight materials, flexible soles, and ample toe space, promoting healthy foot development and freedom of movement.

A Commitment to Sustainability

As a company with a long-standing history, Tsukihoshi and Shoekid Canada is committed to reducing its environmental impact. The brand uses eco-friendly materials and practices, such as water-based adhesives, recycled packaging, and energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Tsukihoshi also supports various environmental initiatives, demonstrating its dedication to a more sustainable future.

Conclusion

From its humble beginnings as a small tabi workshop to its current status as an international footwear powerhouse, Tsukihoshi has always been driven by innovation and a commitment to quality. With a focus on comfort, functionality, and sustainability, Tsukihoshi continues to create shoes that promote healthy foot development and enhance the lives of its customers. As we celebrate the rich history of this iconic brand, we look forward to witnessing the continued evolution of Tsukihoshi in the years to come.