Caterpyran (Shoelace) Day

What Is Caterpyran (Shoelace) Day

September 21 is "Caterpyran (Shoelace) Day" in Japan. It was established by Twins Co., Ltd., a company based in Funabashi, Chiba Prefecture, that plans, develops, and sells everyday household goods, and it is certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association.

Born from a Pun on "Ku-tsu-hi-mo" (Shoelace)

The date comes from a wordplay reading "9-2-1" as "ku-tsu-hi-mo," the Japanese word for shoelace. The day also promotes the company's stretchy, tie-free shoelace product "Caterpyran," aiming to introduce shoelaces that never need tying as a new everyday option.

• Origin: Established by Twins Co., Ltd., based on a pun reading the numbers 9-2-1 as "ku-tsu-hi-mo" (shoelace)
• What Caterpyran is: A shoelace that stretches like elastic, letting you put shoes on and take them off without tying; originally developed for sports
• Purpose: To spread awareness of products and ideas that eliminate the hassle of retying shoelaces

The Idea of a Shoelace You Never Tie

Shoelaces that come undone or are hard to tie are a common frustration across all ages, from small children to the elderly. Stretchy laces like Caterpyran were designed to solve exactly this kind of everyday inconvenience.

Ways to Mark the Day

• Take a look at the shoelaces on the shoes you wear every day
• Learn about stretchy laces and other convenient shoe accessories
• Practice tying your shoelaces properly
• Teach a child or family member how to tie their shoelaces

A Small Fix Underfoot, a More Comfortable Day

Caterpyran (Shoelace) Day is a chance to notice the laces you tie without thinking and discover small ideas that make everyday life a little easier. This September 21, why not take a fresh look at what's on your feet?