The Wildling Tanuki ASAWA is a special edition built on the brand's ultralight washi paper upper, with a print inspired by the work of the artist Ruth Asawa. Washi is one of the lightest uppers used in barefoot footwear anywhere, and the shoe keeps the full wide toe box, zero drop and flexible sole.
Nothing from Vivobarefoot or Xero Shoes uses a paper-fibre upper — the closest comparisons on weight are the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite Kids and the Xero Shoes Prio Youth, both of which use synthetic mesh. Washi is lighter and more breathable but less abrasion-resistant. A genuinely different material category worth understanding before buying. Browse the full Wildling barefoot shoe range or the wider barefoot shoes for kids selection to compare side by side.
Fits true to size with the standard Wildling wide toe box. Low volume. Available EU 23–35. EU price: €109.
What we like: exceptionally light on foot; highly breathable washi upper; limited-edition artwork that does not compromise the barefoot geometry. Worth considering: Washi is less abrasion-resistant than canvas; not for wet weather; special-edition availability is limited.
Q: Is the Tanuki ASAWA suitable for someone new to barefoot shoes?
A: Yes, with a gradual approach. Start with shorter sessions and build up over two to four weeks. The wide toe box is usually comfortable immediately; the thinner sole takes longer to adjust to.
Q: What is a washi upper?
A: Washi is a traditional Japanese paper fibre spun into yarn and woven into fabric. It is extremely light and breathable, and it is one of Wildling's signature materials. It should be kept dry.
| Color: | Blue, Purple, White |
| Size: | 20, 24 |
| Material: | 100% Polyester |
