Moonstar Sneaker - Made in Kurume

Founded in 1873 in Kurume, Fukuoka, Moonstar has been shaping Japanese footwear culture for over 150 years. The company began as Tsuchiya Tabi, producing traditional split-toe footwear, and later pioneered jika-tabi work boots with rubber soles. This early innovation laid the foundation for Moonstar’s reputation in rubber craftsmanship.

Today, the brand is best known for its Fine Vulcanized line. Each pair is kiln-fired at 120°C in the rare ka-ryu vulcanization process, where heat and sulfur chemically transform raw rubber. The result is footwear with soles that are exceptionally durable, flexible, and capable of maintaining their shape. Canvas uppers are hand-cut and sewn by skilled craftspeople before being joined to the rubber sole—a process that machines cannot replicate.

From training shoes for Japan’s 1952 Olympic athletes to modern minimalist sneakers, Moonstar continues to bridge tradition and innovation. Every pair embodies the spirit of “Made in Kurume,” combining understated design with artisanal durability that has defined the brand for generations.