Features and Care
How to choose GETA
Try on both GETA
Mizutori geta are handcrafted one by one, so it is strongly recommended that you should try on the geta that interest you. In addition, human feet normally differ slightly between left and right in size and width, so you might feel that one of the pair is too tight and the other is too loose. It is recommended to try both geta in the pair, and walk a little in the shop.
Some products have different size ranges
Please See Size Conversion Chart.
Choose the right size
Geta Monogatari, Skip and hitete are crafted especially to fit the shape of your sole and for comfortable walking. Measure your foot from the tip of your great toe to the heel. That length is your size. Your regular shoe size will give your geta size.
How to measure your feet Click image to enlarge.
Length
Stand on a piece of paper naturally in a well-balanced manner. Measure from the end of the heel to the tip of your great toe. That is the length of your foot.
Foot circumference
Foot circumference is measured at the widest part of the foot. Start the measurement from the bottom of your great toe through the bottom of your little toe and put the measurer around your foot to the starting point. The measurement of the widest part of the foot is your foot circumference.
If your foot suffers discomfort even when the geta fits well and the size is correct. Click image to enlarge.
How to avoid skin irritation caused by geta straps.
If the 'maetsubo' (the centre of the strap that is tied into the wooden base of geta) rubs your skin, loosen by pulling maetsubo towards you by hand, as shown in the illustration. If the knot should become loosened, you can tie it again.
If the strap rubs the dorsum or top of the foot.
It is recommended to wear thin foot covers or socks (preferably with a separate great toe) to prevent the soreness of the instep.
Caring for your GETA Click image to enlarge.
If the hanao strap becomes soiled.
To remove dirt from the hanao, use a soft brush, and then wipe gently with a cloth. In some cases, the colour may run, so first test an obscure part of the strap. Please note that if you soak the strap in water, it will become hard. It is recommended to use waterproof spray at first, but in this case, please be careful not to spray the dai (wooden part of geta).
If the wooden dai becomes soiled.
To remove dirt from the wooden dai, wet a soft cloth in lukewarm water and squeeze out excess water. Then wipe off the dirt with the cloth. A neutral detergent may be used.
If lacquer chips off the wood base.
Surface scratches and blemishes sustained in everyday wear and tear may be disguised with a special scratch-cover pen or permanent marker, or nail varnish of appropriate color.
If the wooden dai becomes chipped.
Since natural wood is used, the wooden geta dai itself may become chipped or damaged with use. Wood bond or glue is recommended to repair damage. In this case, please follow the maker's instructions. If the damage is great, please do not wear your geta. Contact us for a consultation. If you wish to have it repaired, please send us a photograph that shows the damage clearly to help us advise you on the repair.
The rubber sole.
In order to enjoy your geta for many years, please replace the rubber sole before the wood dai is damaged. This operation may be carried out at your local shoe repair shop.