Tabi shoes—love them or hate them, there’s no in-between. Known for their hoof-like split-toe design, these footwear are instantly recognizable and often leave people divided (just like the toes they split). Thanks to Maison Margiela, the tabi has built a cult following, making its case as a fashion-forward statement piece.
If you’re considering owning a pair, we’ve got you covered with a list of where to shop for your own pair. But first, let’s dive into the tabi shoe’s origins, because, spoiler alert: It actually didn’t start with Margiela.
A Brief History of the Tabi Shoe
Most people think the tabi shoe was born from Martin Margiela’s mind, but the truth is, the style goes back way further. Its origins trace back to 15th-century Japan, where split-toe socks (yes, socks!) were created to be worn with traditional zori sandals. These socks were thought to improve balance, both physically and spiritually—a holistic take on fashion, if you ask us.
Fast forward to the Edo Period (1603-1867), and tabi socks were the thing in Japan. Then, during the '50s and '60s, Japan started exporting its famous zori sandals, which took the global market by storm. The modern flip-flop owes a lot to these ancient designs, even if the style can be traced back to ancient Egypt.
Margiela, however, didn’t want to create just a tribute to these traditional shoes. When he visited Japan in the 1980s, he saw street workers wearing flat cotton tabi shoes and had a lightbulb moment. Why not take the traditional split-toe design and elevate it (literally) with a high heel? The result? His now-iconic Tabi boot, which made its debut on Margiela’s runway in 1989. The rest is fashion history.
If you're ready to join the tabi tribe, here are some brands to get your own pair:
Where to Shop for Split-Toe Tabi Shoes
1. Maison Margiela
Starting off with the OG, Maison Margiela's take on the tabi shoe has become synonymous with avant-garde fashion. From high heels to ballet flats, Margiela’s split-toe designs are the epitome of eclectic chic. Celebs like Olivia Rodrigo, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Dua Lipa have all been spotted rocking Tabis, so you know it’s a vibe. Fun fact: The Tabi Mary Jane was named the number-one hottest product of 2023 by the Lyst Index, so it’s safe to say the Tabi isn’t going anywhere.
Tabi Ankle Boots, €1320 (approx. P83,350), MAISON MARGIELA, maisonmargiela.com
Tabi Ballerinas, €1030 (approx. P65,038), MAISON MARGIELA, maisonmargiela.com
Tabi Pumps, €1115 (approx. P70,405), MAISON MARGIELA, maisonmargiela.com
2. Nike
If you’re after a sporty twist on the tabi, Nike’s Air Rift is the way to go. Originally designed in 1996 as a running shoe, the split-toe design was meant to boost agility, and, let’s be honest, it looks cool, too. Perfect for those who want function and style. They even came out with a balletcore version!
Air Rift, P4139, NIKE, nike.com
Air Rift SE, P6895, NIKE, nike.com
Air Rift SE, P3569, NIKE, nike.com
3. Thy Roots
For a local touch, check out Thy Roots, a brand that handcrafts its tabi shoes in Marikina City. Their leather tabis come in a variety of styles, from Mary Janes to mules, offering a minimalist yet fashion-forward take on the split-toe trend. Support local while making a statement.
Jenna Tabi Janes, P4500, THY ROOTS, thyroots.com
Cudi Tabi Mules, P4000, THY ROOTS, thyroots.com
Travis Tabi Loafers, P5500, THY ROOTS, thyroots.com
4. Suicoke
Known for their cult-favorite sandals, Suicoke is another Japanese brand putting its own spin on tabi shoes. Their split-toe designs are both functional and stylish, making them a go-to for anyone into modern minimalism with a hint of tradition.
UNBITA-ab, $220 (approx. P12,830), SUICOKE, suicoke.com
UNBITA-ab, $220 (approx. P12,830), SUICOKE, suicoke.com
UNBITA-ab, $220 (approx. P12,830), SUICOKE, suicoke.com
5. Sou Sou
Based in Kyoto, Sou Sou creates tabi shoes with a nod to traditional craftsmanship. Each pair is handmade using rubber soles from a century-old company in Japan, and no two shoes are exactly alike. If you want a pair that’s both artisanal and unique, this is the brand to check out.
Marugo Split Toe Shoes Chrysanthemum Cloud, $120 (approx. P6998), SOU SOU, sousouus.com
“Festival” Tabi Shoes Chrysanthemum Burst Blue, $118 (approx. P6881), SOU SOU, sousouus.com
Slip On Tabi Shoes Dots and Stripes Black, $89 (approx. P5190), SOU SOU, sousouus.com
6. Tabi Footwear
Blending Scandinavian simplicity with Japanese heritage, Tabi Footwear offers a more natural, barefoot-like feel. The brand focuses on creating shoes that support the natural movement of the foot, making it a great option if comfort is just as important to you as aesthetics.
Tabi Mules Off-white, P8700, TABI FOOTWEAR, tabifootwear.com
Tabi Hightop Black, P10,400, TABI FOOTWEAR, tabifootwear.com
Tabi Sandal Baby Pink, P9500, TABI FOOTWEAR, tabifootwear.com
7. Raboesy
Founded in 2023, Raboesy is inspired by the balletcore aesthetic, offering a collection of women’s shoes, including Mary Janes, ballet flats, tabis, and loafers. Each design blends cute French elegance with comfort and quality. Created for fellow enthusiasts, Raboesy celebrates femininity and style, whether through split-toe tabis or classic flats with a Parisian twist.
Faux Plush Tabi Mary Jane Flats, $76 (approx. P4432), RABOESY, raboesy.com
Double Strap Tabi Ballet Flats, $88 (approx. P5132), RABOESY, raboesy.com
Bow Tie Tabi Flats, $64 (approx. P3732), RABOESY, raboesy.com
Don’t Forget the Socks
Of course, if you’re going for the full tabi look, you can’t forget the socks. Split-toe shoes require their own socks, and cutting up your regular ones is not the way to go. Opt for tabi socks or, if you can't find any, toe socks will do just as well.
Right Angle Tabi-Style Sneaker Socks, P175, MUJI, mujiph.com
Socks 3 Pairs (Toe), P90, UNIQLO, uniqlo.com
Filipino Style Personalities Wearing Tabi Split-Toe Shoes
Mimiyuuuh
Jeff Ong
Ida Anduyan
Bea Fabregas
Abraham Guardian
*Note: Products recommended on our websites are independently selected by editors. If you buy something through our links, Summit may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Links are updated regularly and as much as possible, but note that products can run out of stock, discounts can expire, and listed prices can change without prior notice.
Hey, Preview readers! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and Twitter to stay up to speed on all things trendy and creative. We’ll curate the most stylish feed for you!
