"The shoes I love most are the layered-sole ones made by mother, standing firm and walking steady, paving my way through the world."
In 1997, the song "Chinese Kid" became an instant classic on CCTV's Spring Festival Gala. Yet, at that time, the footwear market was dominated by leather shoes and sneakers — the former symbolizing professionalism, the latter representing youth and energy. Traditional cloth shoes, by contrast, seemed outdated.
Today, however, comfort and breathability have made cloth shoes a renewed favorite among young urbanites — for commuting, city walks, and casual wear. Once labeled as "grandpa shoes" or "uncool," cloth shoes are being reinvented by a new generation as a stylish, versatile, and affordable alternative to high-end brands.
1. Cloth Shoes Become a Fashion Statement
With a history of over 3,000 years, cloth shoes are truly the "original Chinese footwear." Early versions were discovered in a Western Zhou warrior’s kneeling statue in Shanxi, with stitch marks resembling those still used today.
While handmade cloth shoes were once everyday wear, they fell out of favor as mass-produced footwear took over. Yet recently, they’ve made a surprising comeback — embraced by business elites for their understated elegance and by youth for their comfort and cultural vibe.
A salesperson at a “Old Beijing Cloth Shoes” store in Guangzhou shared:
“Our customers now range from teens to seniors. Young people love them because they’re breathable, lightweight, and perfect with traditional outfits like cheongsam or Hanfu.”
Creative DIY trends have also fueled their revival. Young wearers customize plain cloth shoes with bows, pearls, lace, or embroidery — transforming "old-school" shoes into unique fashion items.
Brands like the time-honored Neiliansheng have also evolved, collaborating with popular IPs such as Disney and the National Museum, and introducing customized and youth-oriented designs that blend tradition with modern aesthetics.
2. Not All Cloth Shoes Are Created Equal
Traditional layered-sole cloth shoes are made through an elaborate process — layering and bonding cloth, stitching the soles with hemp thread, and shaping them through steaming and hammering. This craft is now recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage.
Modern versions have also adapted: rubber, PU, or composite soles improve durability and water resistance, while some brands integrate herbal elements like mugwort for wellness benefits.
However, quality varies widely in today’s market. When selecting cloth shoes, consumers are advised to:
Choose the right size
Opt for natural materials like cotton or linen
Look for evenly stitched soles or defect-free synthetic bases
Caring for cloth shoes:
Avoid soaking; use a soft brush for cleaning
Air-dry naturally, never under direct sunlight
Use removable insoles for easy maintenance
We celebrate the revival of cloth shoes — not only as a fashion trend but as a heritage of comfort and craftsmanship. As a trusted supplier of traditional and modern cloth shoes, we offer:
Styles that blend heritage and contemporary design
Quality materials and durable construction
Customization options for brands and retailers
Let’s walk together into this growing market — where culture meets comfort, and tradition gets a new sole.
WhatsApp
wechat