Learn from African weaving culture and choose natural fabrics to survive the hot season
As the summer heat really sets in, we tend to rely on air conditioning, but the wisdom that African people have cultivated over centuries actually holds many hidden hints for mitigating the heat while living in harmony with nature. This time, we will introduce ways to spend the hot season comfortably using natural fabrics, learned from African weaving culture.
Fiber wisdom cultivated in Africa's hot climate
Traditional textiles with excellent breathability
Bogolan cloth, which originated in Mali in West Africa, and Kente cloth, which comes from Ghana, are woven with cotton in a loose weave to allow air to pass through and prevent the fabric from clinging too closely to the skin.
Bogolan Cross 
Kente cloth
One thing to pay particular attention to is the density of the weave. Japanese summers are humid, so fabrics with just the right amount of air space that don't stick to the skin are very useful. Many African fabrics have this characteristic, a result of the wisdom of our ancestors to stay comfortable in the intense heat.
The natural cooling effect of sisal
The material used to make sisal bags, carefully woven by women in Kenya, is sisal, a plant fiber that acts as a natural cooler.
Sisal fibers are hollow, which allows air to circulate. In addition, the natural oils derived from the plant remain in a moderate amount, giving the fabric a cool feel when touched. This is a unique feature of natural materials that cannot be replicated with synthetic fibers.
Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers: What You Need to Know When Choosing a Summer Bag
The secret of Mochila and sisal bags
Mochilas handwoven by the Wayuu people of Colombia and sisal bags from Kenya are full of ingenuity to help you stay comfortable during the hot season.
The secret behind Mochila's material: Mochila is indeed tightly woven, but the key is the acrylic yarn used. Acrylic fiber is unique among synthetic fibers, and unlike nylon or polyester, it has the ability to both absorb and release moisture. Even though it is tightly woven, acrylic's properties allow it to wick moisture away, and it is also lightweight and quick-drying. The dense structure, which is carefully hand-woven over a period of two weeks to a month, actually allows the bag to properly control the humidity inside.
The moisture-regulating effect of sisal bagsSisal is a material with excellent moisture absorption and release properties. It absorbs excess moisture on humid days and releases moisture appropriately on dry days. It is like a living material that breathes.
Difference from synthetic fibers
While synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester are lightweight and durable, they have limited breathability. Especially in Japan's hot and humid summers, synthetic fiber bags tend to trap moisture inside. Natural materials, on the other hand, may be a little heavier, but they offer exceptional comfort.
Ethical and comfortable living in hot weather
African Ankara slippers make your indoor environment comfortable
In hot weather, the comfort of your feet determines your overall comfort. African Ankara slippers are an excellent item that can dramatically improve the indoor environment in the summer.
Supports indoor hygiene during the summer
- Excellent sweat absorption and quick drying : The excellent sweat absorption properties of natural fibers quickly absorb sweat from the soles of your feet and prevent indoor humidity from increasing.
- Breathable : The weave of Ankara fabric allows air to circulate, keeping your feet cool and fresh.
- The peace of mind of natural materials : Gentler on the skin than synthetic fibers, and comfortable even when worn for long periods of time
When welcoming guests with a heartfelt hospitality , providing them with beautiful African Ankara slippers will create a special feeling of hospitality. Their colorful and warm design will naturally close the gap between you and those you meet for the first time. Having several pairs on hand for guests will ensure they stay comfortable even on hot summer days.
The vibrant colors of African Ankara shoes brighten your mood just by looking at them. Even on the hot, tiring summer days, you'll feel energized right from the start. Each design, such as Pink Dream, Purple Sparkle, and Sunflower, has a unique look, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your mood that day.
How to use items that are well-ventilated
Layering Techniques: Lightweight stoles and scarves are great for regulating temperature in air-conditioned rooms. They also offer the perfect balance of protection from direct sunlight while still allowing air to circulate.
Combining a bag with a mochila or sisal bag and an African print item in a similar color will create a unified ethical style. The natural harmony that can only be achieved with natural materials is what makes it so appealing.
Care instructions to keep you cool
Summer maintenance for natural material bags
Taking good care of your bag is especially important in hot weather. Proper care will help keep your bag cool for longer.
Sisal Bag Care
- Dry in the shade in a well-ventilated area : Avoid direct sunlight and dry in a well-ventilated shade.
- Brushing : Gently brush along the grain of the fabric with a soft brush.
- Moisture prevention : Always ventilate after use to prevent moisture buildup.
Caring for your Mochila
- Store while maintaining its shape : To prevent it from losing its shape, stuff it with newspaper or other materials.
- Regular drying in the shade : Dry in the shade in a well-ventilated place once or twice a month.
- Quick stain removal : If stains occur, wipe them off quickly with a damp cloth.
Material characteristics that are important especially in the hot season
Natural materials have the ability to "breathe." To make the most of this characteristic, it is important to avoid storing them in an airtight place for long periods of time and to expose them to air regularly.
Also, avoid harsh detergents and chemical treatments to preserve the natural oils and fiber properties. By keeping it in its natural state, you can maximize the cooling effect of the material.
Summary: Heat countermeasures that are in harmony with nature
The wisdom that African people have cultivated over a long period of time offers many hints for us today. By understanding the properties of natural materials and making good use of them, rather than relying solely on air conditioning, we can spend a more comfortable and environmentally friendly summer.
Ethical items such as mochilas, sisal bags, and African Ankara slippers are not only beautiful fashion pieces, but also practical companions to help you get through the hot season. This summer, why not try a style that incorporates African wisdom and is in harmony with nature?
Each and every one of these handcrafted items is imbued with the maker's passion and the wisdom they have gained from overcoming harsh environments. By understanding their value and using them with care, we too can achieve a sustainable and comfortable lifestyle.
Representative Kaoru Tsuji
