How They Are Made

Over 40 years ago these shoes where a popular staple among many. They were mass produced on large factory floors and were easily purchased until they started to slowly disappear from the shelves. Over time fashion, manufacturing and economic growth changed and younger generations are receiving greater career choices and the industry of handmade products is declining. 

Who Makes Them Now

Our shoes are handmade in China by a small, family-run manufacturer that had produced this style of shoe decades ago. The family behind the business was thrilled to revive production of this beloved shoe. 

This isn't a factory floor with anonymous workers. These are skilled craftspeople — many of them elderly artisans.

Every one of the 30 staff members has:

  • Equal working rights
  • Regular, fixed working hours
  • Guaranteed leave days
  • Clear safety regulations on the production floor

Because these shoes are truly handmade, there is also a daily production quota that cannot be exceeded — both to protect the health of the makers and to maintain the quality of every pair. 

How They're Made

Each shoe is assembled entirely by hand.  Every component is hand-stitched together. The hand-stitching process also means that each pair has a subtle individuality. This traditional technique is slower and takes time. This is why Kung Fu Mary shoes cannot be mass-produced.

What's In Them

We've taken the classic Chinese cotton kung fu shoe — the one many of us remember from the 80s as "Happy Shoes" — and made it better, without losing what made it special.

  • Uppers: Higher-quality breathable cotton fabrics for durability and all-day comfort
  • Footbed: Extra quilted cushioning 
  • Stitching: Fully hand-stitched — no toxic glue, ever
  • Soles: Recycled, environmentally friendly rubber
  • Buckles: Press-stud buckles that are adjustable along the strap, plus a spare buckle included in every pair (for just incase).

Simple materials. Honest construction and better for the planet too.

Have questions about our materials or process? Get in touch — we love talking about this stuff.