When it comes to footwear designed for both comfort and endurance, especially for walking long distances, Japanese innovation offers some surprising answers. One of the most unique and effective options is Marugo shoes—a modern take on the traditional Japanese jikatabi, known for their split-toe design and natural foot alignment. Whether you're strolling through urban streets or trekking nature trails, Marugo shoes from Japan Store have become a go-to choice for walkers, travelers, and even work professionals who spend hours on their feet.

But what makes them so good for long walks? And how do they compare with conventional walking shoes or sneakers? Let’s dive into the features, benefits, and ideal pairings—like with men’s tabi socks—that make Marugo shoes an excellent choice for extended wear.

What Are Marugo Shoes?

Marugo shoes are a form of jikatabi—a traditional Japanese split-toe shoe—but re-engineered with modern materials and ergonomic design. Developed by Marugo Co., Ltd., a renowned brand in Japan, these shoes were initially designed for workers in construction, agriculture, and logistics. However, their comfort, flexibility, and breathability have made them increasingly popular among hikers, travelers, and even fashion enthusiasts.

At Japan Store, our collection of Marugo shoes blends authenticity with contemporary comfort, offering styles suited for both work and leisure.

Why Marugo Shoes Are Ideal for Long Walks?

Walking long distances puts unique demands on your feet: you need balance, support, and breathability. Here’s how Marugo shoes meet and exceed these needs:

✅Split-Toe Design for Better Balance

The iconic tabi split between the big toe and other toes promotes natural foot movement
Enhances grip and balance, especially on uneven terrain
Mimics barefoot walking, which improves posture and muscle engagement

✅Lightweight and Breathable Materials

Canvas and flexible rubber soles reduce foot fatigue
Ideal for hot climates and long hours of walking
Allows your feet to breathe, minimizing sweat buildup

✅Flexible Soles for Natural Movement

Thin, pliable soles adapt to the surface of the ground
Encourages more mindful, grounded steps
Less impact on joints compared to stiff-soled sneakers

✅Secure Fit Without Pressure Points

Fastening options like Velcro or hooks provide a snug fit
No tight laces digging into your skin during extended use
Roomy toe box prevents blisters and cramping

Pairing With Men’s Tabi Socks: A Must for Comfort

No pair of Marugo shoes is complete without the right socks. That’s where men’s tabi socks come in. These socks are specially designed with a split-toe to match the structure of tabi shoes.

Why You Should Always Wear Men’s Tabi Socks with Marugo Footwear:

Perfect Fit: Traditional socks can feel awkward or bunch up; tabi socks align perfectly with the split-toe design
Moisture Control: Cotton-blend tabi socks wick away sweat, keeping feet dry
Odor Prevention: Many tabi socks feature antibacterial materials
Added Cushion: Ideal for preventing chafing or blisters during long walks
Cultural Authenticity: Enhances the traditional Japanese aesthetic

At Japan Store, our men’s tabi socks come in multi-pair value packs, so you can keep a fresh pair ready for every adventure.

Best Situations to Use Marugo Shoes

If you're wondering where and when Marugo shoes shine the most, here’s a breakdown:

🥾Hiking and Nature Walks

Traction from rubber soles
Lightweight for endurance
Breathable fabric for hot or humid conditions

🏙️ Urban Travel and Sightseeing

Minimalist design complements travel outfits
Easy to pack, taking up less space than bulky sneakers
Comfortable for hours of walking through museums, markets, or city streets

🧘Mindful Walking or Tai Chi

The barefoot feel helps improve posture and mindfulness
Ideal for yoga enthusiasts or those practicing Zen walking techniques

👷Work Environments

Many models were originally designed for labor-intensive jobs
Supportive enough for warehouse, gardening, or landscaping use
Reinforced soles resist slips and abrasions

Customer Testimonials from Japan Store

“I wore my Marugo shoes throughout my trip to Kyoto. We walked at least 10km a day, and my feet felt great—no blisters, no pain.”
— Patrick M., Verified Buyer

“I use them in my landscaping job. Way more comfortable than work boots. The split toe really helps me keep balance on uneven ground.”
— Kenji S., Verified Buyer

“I pair mine with men’s tabi socks and I swear it's like walking barefoot, but protected. Super breathable too!”
— David T., Verified Buyer

Pros and Cons of Marugo Shoes for Walking:

Pros	Cons
Lightweight and breathable	Not ideal for wet or snowy weather
Natural foot movement and posture	Takes time to adjust to split-toe feel
Great for long walks and travel	May not offer high arch support
Cultural and stylish appeal	Needs specific socks (tabi style)

How to Care for Your Marugo Shoes and Men’s Tabi Socks?

👟For Marugo Shoes:

Spot clean with a damp cloth
Avoid machine washing to protect the sole structure
Air-dry in a shaded area (direct sunlight can warp the materials)
Use a soft brush to remove dirt from the soles

🧦For Tabi Socks:

Machine wash on a gentle cycle
Avoid high-heat drying (use low tumble or air dry)
Store flat to maintain shape
Replace frequently for hygiene, especially during summer walks

Where to Buy the Best Marugo Shoes and Men’s Tabi Socks?

At Japan Store, we curate only the most authentic and comfortable Marugo shoes, straight from Japan. Whether you prefer minimalist black, earth-toned canvas, or more modern urban styles, we offer options to suit every taste and purpose. Our men’s tabi socks come in practical multi-packs, ensuring you're never short on comfort.

Popular picks include:
• Marugo Tabi Jog II — designed for walking and urban exploration
• Marugo Safety Jikatabi — reinforced sole for work and hiking
• 10-Pair Men's Tabi Socks Pack — ideal for daily use

Final Thoughts: Are Marugo Shoes Good for Long Walks?

Absolutely. Whether you're navigating city streets or forest trails, Marugo shoes provide a blend of cultural heritage, ergonomic design, and walking comfort that few shoes can match. Their lightweight construction, split-toe flexibility, and breathable fabric make them a superb choice for anyone who values foot health, posture, and all-day endurance.
And don't forget—pairing them with high-quality men’s tabi socks from Japan Store elevates the comfort even further.

So if you're preparing for a trip, upgrading your work gear, or just want a unique, ultra-comfortable walking shoe, explore our collection of Marugo shoes today. Your feet will thank you with every step.