The
original Japanese platform shoes
Long
before the 1970's and the platform shoes, Japanese women had been wearing
Geta sandals or clogs.
The reason for wear these very high platform shoes was not for fashion,
but for very practical reasons. If you are wearing a very expensive
kimono
that hangs all the way to your feet, you do not want to get mud on it when
you walk outside. (A larger version of the picture can be seen by clicking
on it).
Are Geta difficult
to walk in?
Yes! Significant practice is required before someone can walk safely and
elegantly in Geta.
Geta are made of one
piece of solid wood forming the sole and two wooden blocks underneath.
These block may have a metal plate on the section that touches the ground
in order to lengthen the life span of the Geta. A V-shaped thong of cloth
forms the upper part of the sandal.
|