Nishiguchi Kutsushita

Name: Nishiguchi Kutsushita
Brand: Japan
Availability: OutOfStock

Since1950 : Crafting Timeless Comfort Through Generational Expertise

Nishiguchi Kutsushita began as a humble sock-making operation in Nara, Japan, founded by Katsuji Nishiguchi using a single hand-knitting machine. Over seven decades, it has evolved into a respected sock atelier, now operated by the third generation of the Nishiguchi family. The name Nishiguchi Kutsushita translates to “Nishiguchi Socks,” encapsulating the brand’s dedication to creating exceptional socks that elevate everyday life.

Today, the brand is part of the 11-11 umbrella, a concept brand that also includes lines like hakne and yarra. Nishiguchi Kutsushita’s philosophy centers on producing timeless basics made with honest materials and a focus on comfort, durability, and understated design.

About Nishiguchi Kutsushita

Brand Motto

“Hakuhito omoi” (履く人思い) – “Thinking of the person who wears [our socks]”

This motto drives Nishiguchi Kutsushita’s commitment to creating products that prioritize comfort and longevity over fleeting trends. Every item is crafted with the wearer in mind, ensuring an experience rooted in practicality, style, and sustainability.

Material Authenticity

Only carefully sourced natural fibers—such as Egyptian cotton, French linen, Mongolian wool, mohair, silk, and hemp—are used.

Seasonal Suitability

The brand’s products are designed with seasonal needs in mind, offering cool, breathable fabrics for summer and insulating, soft blends for winter.

Craft-Driven Simplicity

Known for subtle ribbing, gentle colors, and minimal packaging (often recycled kraft paper), the brand embraces the art of understatement.

Slow Fashion Ethos

Nishiguchi Kutsushita is committed to small batch production, ensuring sustainability and attention to detail while preserving traditional techniques.

Products

Wool Ribbed Socks

Made from wool sourced from Polwarth sheep, these socks are thick, warm, and moisture-regulating, perfect for fall and winter. Ribbed design ensures a snug fit without tightness.

Silk Cotton Socks

A blend of silk inside and cotton outside, these socks are great for layering or year-round wear. They are especially gentle for those with sensitive skin.

Mohair Wool Pile Socks

Exceptionally soft and cushiony, made with mohair sourced from young Angora goats. Perfect as both room socks and daily wear.

Linen Cotton Ankle Socks

Ideal for summer, these socks are strong, quick-drying, breathable, and naturally antibacterial.

Hemp Cotton Ribbed Socks

Blended with hemp for durability and deodorizing properties, these socks are designed for everyday and outdoor activities.

Wool Jacquard Pattern Socks

Seasonal designs featuring traditional Nordic or Japanese patterns, dyed and knit using a vintage jacquard machine.

Design & Craft Highlights

Seamless Toe Construction : Hand-linked for a smooth fit.

Pressure-Free Cuffs : For added comfort.

Odor-Resistant and Heat-Retaining Materials : Crafted to offer both functionality and comfort.

Why Nishiguchi Kutsushita

Heritage : Over 70 years of family-owned sock-making in Japan

Materials : Hemp, mohair, silk, Polwarth wool, French linen, Egyptian cotton

Technique : Vintage circular knitting machines + modern finishing

Design : Subtle ribbing, gentle colors, and timeless forms

Packaging : Plastic-free, with minimal paper wraps or reusable bands

Brand Highlights

Generational Craftsmanship

Under the leadership of Isato Nishiguchi, the brand continues to honor its heritage while introducing modern elements to appeal to a global audience. Production remains in-house at the Nishiguchi factory in Nara, ensuring ethical labor practices and superior quality control.

Collaboration & Innovation

Nishiguchi Kutsushita collaborates with select fabric houses and retailers, developing custom palettes and experimenting with new product categories. The brand’s extended grip socks, silk liners, and anti-slip loafers were refined after years of customer testing.

Storytelling Through Color

Each season, the brand’s color names are inspired by nature and culture—“Tenkawa River Blue,” “Hinoki Bark,” “Matcha,” and “Shrine Red”—aligning with the brand’s Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic, which celebrates elegance in imperfection and restraint.

Where to find

Asakusabashi, Tokyo : Flagship store.

Factory Store in Nara : Direct access to their artisanal creations.

Osaka Concept Store : A space to experience Nishiguchi Kutsushita’s full offering.

Global Retailers : Moth (Chicago), Boston General Store, Redcast Heritage (Spain), Withered Fig (USA), Tortoise General Store (LA), Covet + Lou (USA), ŪMEI (Australia).

Nishiguchi Kutsushita carefully curates its wholesale partners, preserving the brand’s identity and ensuring proper education about product care and design.