The Shoes Like Pottery Low Sneakers pair has everything you could want from a made-in-Japan low-top sneaker. They feature kiln-fired vulcanization that can only come from Kurume, Japan. Vulcanized shoes are durable, with a flexible sole that maintains its shape. The fine quality achieved through this process can only be attained by the skilled hands of a craftsman.

The combined functions of the strong sole and upper bond, the hard-to-peel-off sole, and the hard-to-lose form are all created by the vulcanization method. Here, the shoes are fired in a 120°C (248°F) kiln for 70 minutes, similar to the way Japanese pottery is fired.

Currently, including Shoes Like Pottery, only three companies in Japan are still producing using the vulcanization method. They are manufactured in the same way as those provided for navy sailors in times of war.

Shoes Like Pottery sources only the highest quality materials, carefully selected to preserve the integrity of each pair of shoes. 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; therefore, each pair is done by hand.

The foxing elastic tape around the sole is stamped with a rubber seal bearing the brand logo. Each logo seal is embossed individually, meaning that each pair of Shoes Like Pottery is different and unique. They are inspired by the legendary magic hammer, 'Uchide no kozuchi.’ It is believed that this hammer was held by the Japanese deity, Daikokuten—one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology.

The factory, with nearly 150 years of history, will continue to protect the 'vulcanization method' and share its good quality with the world. Each pair of these sneakers is akin to artisan ceramics.