FAQs
Find quick answers to common questions about ilsymt products and policies, covering materials, sizing, care, shipping, and returns.
Product Information
What is a tabi?
The tabi is a style of footwear with a split toe that dates back to 15th Century Japan when it was originally designed as a split-toe cotton sock to be worn with geta, or wooden sandals. Our tabi is an eco-friendly take on a time-honored classic, with all the comfort and style of a modern shoe.
Are your shoes unisex?
Yes.
Why doesn’t the tabi come in my size?
If your size falls outside the range we’re currently offering will you please let us know? Email us at info@ilysmt.com. We would love to expand our size range when we get enough interest.
How does the sizing run?
Our tabis are true to size, so we suggest taking your normal size. Our tabi is designed to allow for more mobility of the foot, so a proper fit will not have a strong feeling of compression like some other "sock" style shoes. The upper will conform to your foot with wear. After extended wear, you can shrink up the shoe in the wash (don’t forget to remove the insole first).
What if my feet are wide?
Due to the flexible 3d-knit upper, most customers can order true to size even with wide feet!
Do I have to wear socks with my tabi?
We designed our tabi sneakers so that they could be worn barefoot. Our insole and lining materials have anti-microbial properties, and the insole is removable so you can throw the shoe (minus insole) into the wash to freshen them up. For those of you that cannot go without socks, we make those!
How do I take care of my tabis?
It’s super easy - just throw 'em in the washing machine! We made sure that the insole is removable and hand washable as a first line of defense when it's time to clean your tabis. After you’ve removed your insole, place your whole shoe in the wash - treat it like a sweater. Wash on delicate cycle in cold water. We recommend a gentle detergent and tumble dry on low or air dry in a warm, sunny place.
You can read more about caring for your tabi sneakers here.
Can I wear my tabi socks with flip flops?
Why not? Go ahead.
What are your tabis made of? Are they vegan?
Some are! We sell vegan and silk tabis and we note which tabis are vegan in their product descriptions.
Vegan tabis are either knit from recycled water bottles or polyester and elastic. The silk tabis are made with a blend of recycled polyester, viscose, and silk yarn. All of our tabis are 3d-knit.
Shopping & Orders
Why does it cost that much to ship to my country?
We've chosen our current shipping setup because it's the most reliable way to get your orders to you — with consistent tracking and successful deliveries. We're always on the lookout for more affordable global options and hope to expand in the future. Thanks so much for your understanding! 💚
Can I return or exchange my order?
Yes, we accept returns or exchanges on new, unworn shoes within 7 days of delivery. To start a return or exchange, please email info@ilysmt.com with your order details.
Please see our Return Policy here for more details.
When will my order arrive?
Once you place an order it generally ships next business day or two at most, and you can expect your order between 2-6 business days in the US. Shipping timelines may shift depending on your location and carrier delays, but we’ll always do our best to get your order to you as quickly as possible. Thanks for your patience!
What if my package has been lost?
We don't anticipate this happening, but sometimes your package doesn't make it to you, whether due to shipping delays or porch pirates. Once the package leaves us, it's under the liability of the shipping carrier and can be subject to issues outside of our control. If there are shipping delays or errors feel free to contact the shipping carrier or us, as we'll always do our best to help.
Why isn’t my promo code working?
We’re not sure, but we really want you to get your discount — email us at info@ilysmt.com and we’ll look into it for you!