12 Best Tabi Socks 2023

Looking for tabi socks? Here are the best tabi socks for you to buy! 

Tabi socks find their origins in the fifteenth century, when they were paired with thonged footwear. They are identified by the separate section for the big toe. The split toe is believed to improve balance through reflexology. 

Traditionally, tabi socks are white in colour and are usually worn during formal occasions like tea ceremonies by the high society of Japan. 

Over the years, these little pieces of Japanese culture have found their way into daily fashion. Many people are opting for this style of socks over regular socks because they minimize the friction that may occur between the big toe and second toe. It is also the more convenient option when you want to wear flip flops. 

Some big names in the fashion industry like Maison Margiela took it one step forward and gave the world their famous Tabi-inspired footwear in 1988. They are also teaming up with brands like Reebok and releasing sneakers in the same silhouette. Nike’s chukka sneaker also draws its inspiration from tabis. 

Best Tabi Socks – Quick Summary

Best Tabi Socks	Material	Other Features
TeeHee Tabi Socks	Cotton, polyester, spandex	Ankle length socksAvailable in a variety of colours and designs
Intype Tabi Geta Socks	Cotton, nylon, silicon patches	Available in different lengths and stylesAvailable in different colours.
Rosenice Tabi Socks	Cotton	Crew length socksAvailable in three colours
Papermore Tabi Geta Socks	Cotton, polyester, spandex	Crew length socksAvailable in different prints and colours
Wrapables Tabi Socks	Cotton blend	Crew length socksAvailable in different prints and colours
Samurai Market Tabi Socks	Cotton blend	Ankle length socksAvailable in a variety of colours and designs
V-Toe Tabi Socks	Wool, acrylic blend, nylon, polyester, spandex	Crew length socksAvailable in different prints and colours
Polar Feet Tabi Socks	Polyester	Crew length socksAvailable in different prints and colours

How we tested tabi socks?

We went over 20 brands of tabi socks and rated them on the material and variety of colours, designs and prints available. After intensive research of what the best suited materials used for socks are and viewing the different options available, our experts have put together a list of the best tabi socks available.

So what  are some of the best Tabi socks on the market at the moment and how do you make the right purchase? We have put together a list of tabi socks available with descriptions that will help you make your purchase.

Top Tabi Socks

Which is the best tabi socks?

According to our in-house research team, we have found that Rosenice Tabi Socks are some of the best tabi socks in the market. These socks are made with high quality, breathable cotton that prevents foot odor. 

TeeHee Tabi Socks

These tabi socks are made of 85% cotton, 12% polyester, and 3% spandex. These crew length socks come in standard colours of black, grey and white. They also come in different themes like irish, mini stripes, American flag, Christmas, and Halloween. 

They are affordable and can be washed in the machine. They are perfect to wear along with flip flops and will keep your feet toasty warm .

Pros:

• Affordable
• Breathable material
• Available in different colours and prints
• Can be washed in the washing machine
• Unisex

Cons:

• None

• Related: What are tabi boots used for?
• Related: Where to buy tabi shoes?
• Related: Japanese tabi work boots

Intype Tabi Geta Socks

These tabi socks are made of cotton and nylon. They are available in different colours and can be bought as a combo of four or five pairs. They can be washed in the machine without the worry of excessive stretching.They also absorb sweat and prevent any odour. They are available in different lengths- ankle length, crew length and no show. 

Pros:

• Affordable
• Can be washed in the washing machine
• Prevents odour
• Unisex
• Available in different colours
• Available in different lengths

Cons:

• Does not come with prints

Rosenice Tabi Socks

These tabi socks are made of high quality cotton. They are soft and comfortable to wear. The breathable material prevents any unpleasant odour. They are available in three colours- white, black and grey. They can be purchased in a combo of three pairs.

Pros:

• Breathable material
• Prevents odour
• Unisex
• Available in different colours

Cons:

• Available in only three colours
• Does not come in different prints or lengths

Papermore Tabi Geta Socks

For a funky pair of  tabi socks, you can opt for Papermore Tabi Geta Socks. They are made of coton, polyester and spandex. They come in fun and colourful prints. They effectively absorb sweat and prevent any odour. They are affordable and can be bought in a set of four pairs. 

Pros:

• Affordable
• Available in different colourful prints
• Breathable material
• Can be washed in the washing machine
• Prevents odour

Cons:

• Do not come in different lengths

Wrapables Tabi Socks

These tabi socks are perfect to wear with sneakers, flip flops or sandals. They are made with a cotton blend that is comfortable and soft on the feet. They come in ankle lengths and crew lengths. They are also available in different colours and prints. They are affordable and can be purchased in sets of 3. 

Pros:

• Affordable
• Breathable material
• Available in different colours and prints
• Can be washed in the washing machine
• Available indifferent lengths

Cons:

• None

Samurai Market Tabi Socks

These tabi socks pay tribute to the Japanese culture with the prints on them. They are available in different prints like Mount Fuji, ninjas, and sushi. 

They are made of a cotton blend that is soft and comfortable to wear. They are slightly more expensive than most of the other tabi socks mentioned on this list and are available to buy as single pairs.

Pros:

• Breathable material
• Available in different colours and prints
• Can be washed in the washing machine

Cons:

• Expensive
• Not available to buy as combos

V-Toe Tabi Socks

Made from a blend of wool, acrylic, nylon, polyester, and spandex, these tabi socks are comfortable and great for hiking. The breathable material is comfortable, soft and prevents any odour. They can be machine washed and are available in shades of black and grey. 

Pros:

• Breathable material
• Prevents odour
• Unisex
• Available in different colours

Cons:

• Expensive
• Do not come in a variety of colours or prints

Polar Feet Tabi Socks

Made from 100% polyester, these tabi socks are a fashion statement on their own. They are washer and dryer friendly and do not shrink or fade. They are long lasting and durable. They are available in three different prints and can be worn with flip flops and sandals. 

Pros:

• Unisex
• Easy to wash 
• Machine and dryer safe
• Long lasting

Cons:

• Expensive
• Do not come in a variety of colours or prints

Best Tabi Socks: FAQs

What are tabi socks?

Tabi socks are a traditional type of Japanese footwear that separates the big toe from the other toes, similar to flip-flops or sandals. These socks are ankle-high and have a distinct split-toe design, allowing the wearer to comfortably wear them with traditional Japanese footwear like tabi shoes or geta sandals. Tabi socks are usually made of cotton or other breathable materials and come in various colors and patterns.

They are commonly worn in Japan with traditional clothing such as kimono or yukata, and they also serve functional purposes, providing comfort, hygiene, and helping to improve stability when wearing traditional footwear.

Are tabi socks comfortable?

Tabi socks are generally considered comfortable by those accustomed to wearing them. Their design, with a separate compartment for the big toe, allows for greater flexibility and movement of the toes. This can provide a more natural and comfortable fit compared to regular socks, especially when wearing tabi shoes or geta sandals. Additionally, tabi socks are often made from soft and breathable materials such as cotton, which enhances comfort.

However, comfort can vary depending on personal preferences and the specific design and quality of the socks. It’s always advisable to try them on and see how they feel for individual comfort assessment.

Why do people wear tabi socks?

People wear tabi socks for various reasons. First and foremost, tabi socks are designed to be worn with traditional Japanese footwear like tabi shoes and geta sandals, providing a proper fit and enhancing comfort. They also serve hygienic purposes, as they create a barrier between the foot and the shoe, helping to absorb sweat and prevent odor.

Tabi socks are commonly worn with traditional Japanese clothing such as kimono or yukata, adding to the overall aesthetic and cultural authenticity of the attire.

Additionally, some people wear tabi socks for practical reasons, as the split-toe design can improve stability and grip when walking on certain surfaces.

Are tabi socks good for your feet?

Tabi socks can have some benefits for foot health, but it ultimately depends on individual preferences and foot conditions. The separate compartment for the big toe in tabi socks allows for better toe alignment and can provide more space and freedom for toe movement compared to regular socks. This can be beneficial for individuals with foot conditions such as bunions or toe deformities. Tabi socks also promote better air circulation and moisture absorption, which can help prevent fungal infections and keep the feet dry and comfortable.

However, it’s important to note that everyone’s feet are unique, and what works well for one person may not be suitable for another. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on foot health.

Why do Japanese wear tabi?

Japanese people wear tabi for a variety of reasons. Firstly, tabi socks are an integral part of traditional Japanese footwear like tabi shoes and geta sandals, providing a proper fit and enhancing comfort. They are commonly worn with traditional clothing such as kimono or yukata, as part of cultural and aesthetic practices. Tabi socks also serve practical purposes, such as improving stability and grip when walking on certain surfaces due to their split-toe design.

Moreover, tabi socks offer hygiene benefits by acting as a barrier between the foot and the shoe, helping to absorb sweat and prevent odor.

What is the difference between tabi and zori?

Tabi and zori are both traditional Japanese footwear, but they have distinct differences. Tabi refers to split-toe socks or shoes that separate the big toe from the other toes. They are usually made of fabric and worn with geta sandals or tabi shoes. Zori, on the other hand, are flat, thong-style sandals made of materials like straw, leather, or rubber. Unlike tabi, zori do not have a split-toe design.

Zori are often worn with casual or formal attire, and they are popular in Japan as everyday footwear. While tabi are worn with socks, zori are typically worn directly on the foot.

Are Tabis uncomfortable?

Tabi socks or shoes can be uncomfortable for some people, particularly those who are not accustomed to wearing them. The split-toe design of tabi socks can feel unusual at first and may take some time to get used to. The fit of tabi shoes can also vary depending on the individual’s foot shape and the specific design of the shoes.

Additionally, the material and construction of the tabi socks or shoes can impact comfort. It’s recommended to try on different sizes and styles, and allow for an adjustment period to determine personal comfort levels with tabi footwear.

Why do tabi have a split toe?

Tabi have a split toe design for both practical and cultural reasons. The split toe allows for better flexibility and dexterity of the toes, providing a more natural and comfortable fit. This design is especially useful when wearing tabi shoes or geta sandals, as it allows for greater stability and grip. The split toe also aligns with the principles of traditional Japanese footwear, which prioritize a connection with nature and balance.

Additionally, the split toe is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and has become an iconic feature of tabi, representing tradition and authenticity in Japanese fashion and attire.

Do you wear tabi with yukata?

However, in Japanese culture, it is common to wear tabi socks with a yukata. Tabi socks are often worn with traditional attire like yukata to complete the traditional look and add to the overall aesthetic. When wearing a yukata, it is customary to pair it with a matching set of tabi socks and zori sandals. The tabi socks provide comfort, protect the feet, and enhance the traditional appearance when combined with a yukata.

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