The Flip-Flop as Traditional Japanese Design: The Surprising Origins of a Beach Classic

Ikuta Shōtarō (left) and Ray Pastine. (Courtesy Naigai Rubber Industry)

Uzawa Yasuhiro of Naigai Rubber Industry. (© Yoshino Taichirō)

A wooden foot mold created by Pastine with a notch in the area where the toe post would be positioned. (Courtesy Naigai Rubber Industry)

Naigai Rubber Industry’s “Beach Walk” flip-flops. The logo is based on the original design used when the product was first launched. (© Yoshino Taichirō)

Flip-flops often have soles that are thicker toward the heel. (© Yoshino Taichirō)

Some of the flip-flops manufactured by Naigai Rubber Industry. (© Yoshino Taichirō)