Maki Izawa · CLIENT: Maki Izawa Design Studio
Para Waraji was created to ensure a secure and peaceful everyday life through prevention. Originally made of straw, Waraji was worn by Japanese commoners and samurais to protect their feet and ward off bad luck and disasters. Para Waraji, however, is made of a durable parachute cord, making it suitable for daily wear and emergency situations. This innovative product not only provides foot protection but can also be untied and used as a rope for wound care and fixation. By blending traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern technology, Para Waraji sets a great example of innovation.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Para Waraji is a Waraji sandal woven with Parachute Cord.
Waraji is a traditional Japanese footwear made of straw that used to be worn by commoners and samurai in the past. Traditional Japanese Waraji have been believed to offer protection and ward off evil spirits as amulets or talismans. They were thought to protect their feet and keep away bad luck and disasters. Para Waraji is a fusion of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern technology. - Dimensions & Packaging
- Made to fit the size of each foot.
Para Waraji are lightweight, soft, and comfortable on the foot, giving a sensation as if you are walking barefoot. Feet are well protected while sensations in the toes and soles are strengthened, blood circulation is improved, and the footwear is health-conscious, reducing foot fatigue without stressing the feet. - Tags
- #design, #lifestyle, #preparation, #tokyo, #product, #productdesign, #waraji, #japandesign, #japan, #paracord, #traditional crafts, #parawaraji, #designer, #art, #makiizawa
- Production Technology
- Para Waraji is woven using 4mm paracord.
Paracord is a lightweight nylon rope originally developed for suspending military parachutes. Paracord is strong, durable, flexible and abrasion resistant.
It is made of a kernmantle construction, meaning it has a strong inner core surrounded by a woven outer sheath.
It is available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Para Waraji are designed to wrap around the ankle through small loops on the left and right sides and long loops on the heel, so they fit securely around the sole of the foot and are very easy to walk in. - Design Challenge
- Waraji craftsmen are getting older, and the number of people weaving straw sandals is decreasing.I had a hard finding people who would make them.I would also like to carry out activities to protect the wonderful traditional craftsmen of Japan.
- Project Duration
- The project started in September 2022 in Japan.
It was exhibited in Tokyo in October 2022.
It was exhibited in Osaka in December 2022. - Operation Flow
- Para Waraji are designed to wrap around the ankle through small loops on the left and right sides and long loops on the heel, so they fit securely around the sole of the foot and are very easy to walk in.
There is a basic way to tie a Para Waraji, but the strings can be tied in any way you like, so you can change the impression to suit your mood. - Research
- Para Waraji are a fusion of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern technology.
A material of outstanding durability and versatility, paracord adds strength and functionality to the traditional waraji design.
The intricate weave patterns and color combinations of paracord reflect the attention to detail and aesthetic sensibilities that characterize Japanese design.
The result is a unique and practical footwear that embodies a spirit of innovation and respect for tradition. - Inspiration
- The world is currently facing various issues including energy and food crises due to war, extreme weather, and natural disasters. Para Waraji was born as an idea that incorporates the idea of prevention to spend every day calmly and safely. Para Waraji is a Waraji sandal woven with a very strong and durable parachute cord. It not only protects the feet in everyday life, but also serves as a versatile tool in emergencies by untying the woven cord to use as a rope for wound care, hemostasis, fire starting, and dental floss, providing assistance in various aspects of daily life during emergencies.
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