Under-socks, who knew!

I was today years old when I learned that there are such a thing as "under tabi" or "under socks", but specifically tabi socks for under tabi socks! It makes sense though. I often double up on socks in the winter. And when you wear tabi with a kimono your feet are really exposed, so having tabi under tabi is a great idea!

Taking a look on the photos online, I actually own "under tabi", but I just didn't realize that's what they are called. I am not at home now to root a pair out and take a photo, so I have just used a photo of regular tabi for this post. But the "under-tabi" are worn under the tabi you see in this photo! 

The reason I heard of "under tabi", or "tabishita" as they are called in Japanese, today, is because it is Under Tabi Socks Day [足袋下の日] (tabishita no hi). So you see, the "xyz day" aka the annual anniversaries and observances in Japan are more than just a bit of fun, they are also educational! And the purpose of "tabeshita no hi", to promote the existence and use of tabishita worked, because now the next time I wear a kimono on a cold day, I'll be sure to put on a pair of tabeshita under the tabi!