A quirky pair of sandals from Japan has gone viral online after users claimed the footwear helps reduce leg fatigue and swelling while delivering a unique acupressure effect.
The unusual sandals, known as Bare Feet of a Gorilla, were created by Osaka-based company Doshisha as part of its playful Gorilla Series collection.
Since launching in late April, the sandals have exploded across Japanese social media, with many users praising both their bizarre cloud-like appearance and their surprisingly comfortable feel.
Designed as “recovery sandals”, the footwear aims to stimulate pressure points on the soles of the feet while walking, helping to relieve tired legs during the hot summer months.
Hidden within the soft puffy surface are small gorilla-shaped bumps that create a gentle massage-like sensation with every step.
According to Doshisha, the sandals were inspired by the growing popularity of recovery footwear among young people in Japan, especially those looking for ways to ease leg fatigue and swelling after long days of walking.
Many users online even claimed their legs appeared slimmer after wearing the sandals regularly.
Unlike traditional acupressure slippers, which are often painful during the first few wears, users said the Bare Feet of a Gorilla sandals felt surprisingly soft and comfortable thanks to their lightweight EVA material.
Reviewers described the stimulation as gentle rather than painful, with some saying the sandals helped reduce feelings of heaviness and sluggishness in their legs after just a short time.
Although the sandals may become uncomfortable if worn for extended periods outdoors, many users said they were ideal for indoor use or quick trips outside.
The sandals are available in black, grey, white and mint green, and come in several sizes.
They are currently sold at Don Quijote stores and affiliated retail chains across Japan for 2,189 yen, which is approximately RM68.
