How to Recognize Real Tabis?
Tabi shoes, the iconic Japanese split-toe footwear, have become much more than a simple fashion accessory. Their unique design—defined by the separation between the big toe and the others—attracts enthusiasts from all over the world. But as their popularity grows, so do counterfeit versions, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish genuine tabis from fake ones. So, how can you recognize real tabis? In this complete guide, we give you all the keys to identify authentic pairs and avoid common traps when buying.
Why Tabi Authenticity Matters
Buying a pair of tabis isn’t just about owning trendy shoes. Behind every original model lies craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and genuine value that justify their price. Understanding the importance of authenticity helps protect your investment and respect the creators’ work.
The Real Price of Authentic Tabis
A genuine pair of tabis has nothing in common with the cheap copies flooding the market. Its cost reflects the quality of the materials, refined finishes, and lasting comfort.
At Furansu, we’ve chosen a clear positioning:
- working with high-quality, supple, durable leather,
- ensuring careful manufacturing with consistent stitching and solid soles,
- offering fair, transparent pricing that reflects the real value of the product—without inflated margins tied to a logo.
Our tabis are designed to last and remain accessible, unlike overpriced luxury models or low-end counterfeits.
Why You Should Avoid Counterfeits
Fake tabis quickly reveal their flaws: stiff synthetic leather, visible glue marks, fragile soles, and sloppy cuts. They lose their shape, feel uncomfortable, and age poorly.
Choosing a “good deal” often means missing out on the unique experience real tabis offer: comfort, elegance, and durability.
The Quality of Authentic Tabis
What truly sets original tabis apart from their imitations is quality. Each pair is made to last and reflects the expertise of the creator’s workshop.
Premium Materials
Real tabis are always made with high-quality materials. Maison Margiela, for instance, uses supple, resilient leather that ages beautifully. To the touch, the leather feels soft and even, without excessive stiffness or rough imperfections.
The inner linings are finely crafted as well—often in soft leather or premium textile—to ensure optimal comfort. Copies, on the other hand, often use synthetic or coated materials that look overly shiny and have a chemical smell.
Perfect Finishes and Stitching
The regularity of the stitching is a clear indicator of authenticity. On real tabis, every stitch is perfectly aligned, with no loose threads or visible glue. The sole is securely attached, with clean edges.
Fake tabis often show uneven, coarse stitching, glue overflow, and sloppy assembly. These flaws—visible to the naked eye—reflect mass production with poor quality control.
Unique Craftsmanship
Authentic tabis aren’t just shoes—they're pieces of design shaped through craftsmanship. Every detail is carefully thought out to respect the spirit of the original model while offering modern comfort.
You can feel this expertise in the durability, balance, and elegant silhouette. While counterfeits look approximate, authentic tabis stand out for their precision and harmony.
Distinctive Signs of Real Tabis
Identifying authentic tabis comes down to observing specific details.
Materials and Finishes
A close look at the leather or fabric immediately reveals the quality. Real leather is supple, slightly textured, and ages well, while faux leather cracks quickly. Authentic tabis also feature perfectly polished edges and refined linings.
Stitching and Sole
Stitching is one of the most reliable indicators: strong, regular, and discreet. The sole should be robust, securely glued or stitched, and sometimes display a discreet brand marking or serial number.
A sole that is too thin, rigid, or poorly attached is usually the sign of a counterfeit.
Discover Our Different Tabi Models
Kyoto Tabi
Furansu’s Kyoto Tabi stands out for its clean design and refined finishing. Available from size 36 to 45, it fits most feet. Made from high-quality leather, it features a sturdy sole and a silhouette faithful to traditional tabi aesthetics with a modern twist. Offered in black, white, or other seasonal variants, it’s a versatile and elegant choice.
Hikari Tabi
Hikari Tabi offers brightness and modernity. Available in many sizes (38–46), it’s ideal for those seeking a more striking, sleek version. The smooth leather enhances the signature split-toe design while ensuring comfort. Furansu offers it at a promotional price, making it a great balance between style, authenticity, and budget.
Kuro Tabi
Kuro Tabi represents the most classic and minimalistic version—“Kuro” means “black” in Japanese. Available in black, white, beige (and occasionally other colors), it delivers a refined, understated look. With quality materials and sizes running from 36 to 43 or beyond depending on the season, it adapts easily to everyday outfits or dressier looks.
Hana Tabi
Hana Tabi combines elegance and lightness. “Hana” means “flower,” and the design reflects that softness through light colors (beige, black), fine leather, and particular attention to comfort. A great choice for those wanting a soft, refined version of tabis. Its accessible sizing and careful design make it one of the highlights of the collection.