Zori Shoes: What They Are and Why They Matter in Irish Fashion

When you think of zori, traditional Japanese flat sandals made from straw, fabric, or leather, often worn with socks called tabi. Also known as Japanese thong sandals, they’re not just footwear—they’re a quiet revolution in how we think about summer shoes in wet climates like Ireland. Unlike bulky boots or heavy sneakers, zori sit light on the foot, let air move, and dry fast. That’s not just a trend. It’s a smart response to Ireland’s unpredictable summers—sudden heatwaves followed by drizzle, coastal winds, and muddy garden paths.

Zori relate directly to other footwear you already know. Think of them as the minimalist cousin of slippers, indoor footwear designed for warmth and comfort, often worn on damp floors in Irish homes. But zori are made for outside. They’re the kind of shoe you’d slip on after a walk along the Dingle coast, or to the local farmers’ market on a warm Saturday. They don’t need socks—though some Irish women wear thin cotton ones for extra comfort, especially if they’ve got sensitive feet. And unlike UGGs or wellies, zori don’t trap moisture. They breathe. That’s why they’re starting to show up in Irish closets, especially among people who’ve had enough of sweaty feet and soggy linings.

They also connect to summer dresses, lightweight, breathable garments worn in Ireland’s changeable weather, often in linen or cotton. A simple zori pairs perfectly with a linen dress or a flowy cotton tunic. No laces. No buckles. Just slip on, step out. They’re the opposite of the heavy boots we’re used to wearing for nine months of the year. And they’re not just for beach days. In Dublin, Galway, and Cork, you’ll see them at open-air markets, garden parties, and even casual pub gardens when the sun breaks through.

What makes zori special isn’t just their look. It’s their history. They’ve been worn in Japan for centuries—simple, handcrafted, and made from natural materials. That’s why they fit so well in Ireland, where people are starting to value shoes that last, not just look good. You won’t find zori in big chain stores, but you’ll find them in small Irish boutiques that stock ethical, slow-fashion brands. They’re the kind of shoe you buy once, care for, and wear for years. That’s the kind of thing Irish shoppers are looking for now.

You won’t see zori replacing wellies anytime soon. But they’re carving out a real space in the summer wardrobe. They’re the answer to those days when it’s too hot for boots, too damp for flip-flops, and you just want something that doesn’t make your feet feel like they’re trapped in a plastic bag. If you’ve ever wished your summer shoes could dry in minutes, feel like nothing on your feet, and still look quiet and elegant—you’ve been waiting for zori.

Below, you’ll find real stories from Irish women who’ve made zori part of their everyday style. Some found them on a trip to Japan. Others stumbled on them in a Galway shop and didn’t know what to call them. Now they won’t go without. These aren’t fashion experiments. They’re practical choices made by people who’ve learned how to live well in Ireland’s weather.