brand
Marugo
Marugo is a Japanese footwear brand specializing in traditional split-toe boots known as jika-tabi. Its aesthetic prioritizes functional utility and minimalist design rooted in Japanese workwear. The brand represents a heritage of craftsmanship, bridging the gap between historical labor uniforms and contemporary minimalist subcultures.
Historia
Founded in 1919 in Kurashiki, Okayama, Marugo began as a manufacturer of rubber-soled footwear for industrial workers. The company played a significant role in the development of the modern jika-tabi, which became standard attire for Japanese construction laborers and festival participants. In recent decades, Marugo has influenced global fashion by adapting these traditional silhouettes for casual use, contributing to the broader recognition of split-toe footwear in international design circles.
