Moonstar Shoes

With almost 150 years of unbroken shoemaking heritage, it is little wonder that Moonstar is so highly respected. Founded as a ‘Tabi’ maker (traditional, split-toed footwear with a rubber sole) in Kurume, Japan in 1873, Moonstar has used its wealth of experience to innovate. As they evolve, M oonstar shoes always maintain a superior level of quality. The logical and natural progression in style and design led Moonstar to the classic, vulcanised rubber sole canvas sneaker.

The construction of these sneakers is an artform in itself. A skilled craftsman attaches the upper to the outsole according to the shape of the last, and then puts a tape around it. This process is impossible to do by machine. The same craftsmen make each pair by hand. Raw, claylike rubber forms the outsole, supporting the shape of the shoe.

Then, utilising the ka-ryu (vulcanising) process, Moonstar kiln fires each shoe at 120 °C (248 °F) for 70 minutes. This process causes the sulphur mixed inside the raw rubber to chemically react. As a result, the rubber returns to its natural elasticity and creates a soft, flexible, and durable sole. The end result is a perfectly made long lasting and comfortable Moonstar shoe.