Spotlight on the Made in Japan Footwear "BENEXY"—Centered on the 3 "B"s: "Basic," "Born Free," & "Belief"

It's the perfect season for sandals. While "sandals" come in a wide range of styles and brands, there is one footwear brand that distinguishes itself by its focus on Made in Japan and a sophisticated, grown-up feel. That brand is BENEXY.

This time, we'll introduce various products from the brand BENEXY, with a focus on their sandals. We spoke with Manabu Shiratori of BENEXY CORPORATION, about the brand's allure and its high level of quality.

Exploring BENEXY's Core: The 3 "B"s

First, we asked about how BENEXY began and its core brand concepts.

"With over 20 years of experience in footwear retail and repair, we have built up the skills and knowledge to truly support our customers' feet. As the culmination of all that experience, we launched our original footwear brand 'BENEXY' in the Fall/Winter 2023 season.

"BENEXY is built around the three themes of 'BASIC,' 'BORN FREE,' and 'BELIEF,' consistently producing Made in Japan products. 'BASIC' stands for timeless, classic design—not trying too hard to be unique, but rather aiming for something that fits easily into everyday life.

"'BORN FREE' expresses our desire to free your feet and mind from the stresses of daily life, creating footwear that lets you feel liberated. 'BELIEF' represents our commitment to quality craftsmanship over mass-produced items. Each of these three 'B's embodies a part of our DNA, and that's how BENEXY started."

Introducing BENEXY's Signature Products

That's how BENEXY began. The brand initially launched with just two products. Let’s take a closer look at these flagship items.

"The first model we created was named '270.' This serves as both the product number and the model name at BENEXY. It's a clog-type made from steer leather. Since a year has 365 days, and each season is roughly 90 days, we chose ‘270’ as the name, implying you can wear them over the spring, summer, and autumn (90 days x 3 = 270).

"At the same time, we also developed the '360' laced shoes, which can be worn year-round. Our first season launched with these two models."

Refined Sandals Perfect for Sophisticated Feet: BENEXY's Standout Option

First, let’s check out the "180," released last year and already a staple BENEXY spring/summer model.

"For BENEXY's debut sandal, we aimed to create a refined, grown-up look—not overly casual. We wanted a sandal that minimizes skin exposure, holds the instep securely, and offers a great fit. That led to the '180,' an envelope-type sandal design.

"The envelope-style upper covers the entire instep, providing a secure fit and a sophisticated silhouette without sacrificing breathability. It’s polished yet functional.

"We use velour leather as the primary material. While velour leather is rare for spring or summer, its softness, texture, and unique character lend a cool impression—so we deliberately chose it, even for the warmer months."

This Year's Must-Have: BENEXY's Strap Sandals

Let’s also check out the newest model, "120," released this year.

"The 120 is based on the 180 model, but features two straps for an airier, more summery look and feel. Two straps allow the fit to be easily adjusted to suit the height of your instep, crafting a more personalized shape for your foot. While it’s derived from the 180, it stands as a separate design altogether."

A Thorough Breakdown of BENEXY’s Secret to Outstanding Quality

Now that we’ve checked out the lineup, let’s take a deep dive into what sets BENEXY’s quality apart. There are plenty of points worth noting, but for starters, let’s shine a spotlight on their signature insoles.

"BENEXY’s original insoles are crafted with great care. The material is a unique blend of cork and rubber. By adjusting the blend ratio, we change the firmness, and we intentionally make them a little firmer. This allows for better support underfoot and provides greater stability when you wear them.

"As for the shape, the heel cup is designed smaller, while the arch area features a modest protrusion to properly support the arch and deliver a secure feel, supporting the entire foot. While many insoles are designed for European and American feet, BENEXY creates theirs to fit the Japanese foot specifically.

"One major feature is that every BENEXY item is available in two widths—Relax Fit and Slim Fit—offered in every size. There’s a noticeable difference at the widest part of the foot, the ball girth, so people with wider or narrower feet can find their perfect fit.

"In addition to two width options, the height over the arch can be adjusted as well. This special service is exclusive to our official stores, where an insole insert can be placed beneath the main insole for an even closer fit. With BENEXY, you can choose footwear that fits perfectly in length, width, and height."

BENEXY’s pieces are known for their outstanding fit—but that’s not all. Their commitment to Made in Japan means not only a solid repair system, but also custom services.

"Naturally, we can replace the soles, but even if the upper gets damaged after years of use, we’ll repair it as much as possible. In addition to repairs, we also offer custom options. For sandals and clogs, you can add a back strap.

"This back strap can hook onto your heel for a more secure fit—ideal if you want to run, or for added safety while driving. If you swing the strap to the front, you can still wear them in the classic slide-on style, giving you a more versatile experience."

Just two years since the brand’s launch, BENEXY already stands out thanks to its unique concept and unmistakable quality. While we’re highlighting their spring/summer sandals this time, their range includes plenty of other styles to explore. You can try out BENEXY footwear at their directly managed stores (Hibiya, Ginza, Shinjuku, Kichijoji, Omiya, Shinsaibashi, Kobe, and Kumamoto), operated by BENEXY CORPORATION, as well as at select specialty shops.

Why not experience that exceptional comfort for yourself?