Tatami mats, a Japanese tradition
The refreshing scent and pleasant feel of rush grass have been a part of everyday life since ancient times.
It was a presence that brought peace.
Nowadays, Western-style rooms have become commonplace, and the time we spend in contact with tatami mats has become limited.
The hidden blessings of nature in rush grass
Igusa grass, the material used to make tatami mats, has a variety of natural benefits.
Moisture absorption to prevent stuffiness, odor prevention to prevent odors, antibacterial properties to prevent bacteria,
Comfortable elasticity, heat retention and insulation, relaxation, etc.
Due to these effects, the insoles of the shoes are made from rush grass grown in Kyushu (Kumamoto and Fukuoka).
It provides functionality that allows you to be comfortable even with bare feet.
The natural-colored insoles are made from discarded tatami mat scraps.
We upcycle waste, giving it new value and giving it new life.
Tatami mats are made from a plant called "igusa"
In today's world where much of what surrounds us is inorganic,
"Igusa" is a natural organic material that comes into direct contact with the body.
When you wear this product, you will discover that you are standing on nature.
I would be happy if this gives you an opportunity to think about your relationship with nature.
To preserve the culture
With the spread of Western-style rooms, the number of homes with tatami mats is decreasing, and demand is shrinking.
In addition, imports of cheap rush grass from overseas have increased, and currently approximately 80% of tatami mats sold in Japan are imported from overseas.
More than 90% of the nation's rush production is produced in Kumamoto Prefecture. However, the number of rush farms, which stood at 1,340 in 2002, has decreased to 363 in 2020 (*).
The preservation and succession of rush and tatami culture in Japan is in a critical situation.
(※) Circumstances surrounding Igusa (tatami mats) July 2021 Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries
The difference between domestically produced and imported rush grass and tatami mats
The big difference is in the density of the rush inside.
The cross section of domestically produced rush grass is packed with fibers and has a thick, strong outer skin, making it highly durable and providing a resilient, firm feel underfoot.
There are also differences in scent, with Japanese-made tatami mats having the natural scent of hay that comes from the rush grass.They also have a beautiful appearance with no color unevenness, and their luster will not fade even if you use them for a long time.
Liberato is incorporating tatami into fashion.
We hope to help people rediscover the comfort of tatami mats and help preserve Japan's traditional culture.
Attention to materials
・Genuine cow leather -Leather- Genuine cow leather -Leather-
・The effects of rush grass