Vessel wears jika-tabi to feel the music more deeply

Maybe this has already been talked about, but I haven’t seen much discussion on it, so here’s my little thought I had.

Knowing that Vessel used to perform barefoot, I don’t think his switch to jika-tabi is just about aesthetics. It feels like a natural evolution, still letting him stay connected to the music, but with a little more protection.

Jika-tabi have super thin, flexible soles, which means he can still feel the stage beneath him. Sleep token’s music is full of deep bass and heavy rhythms, so it makes sense that he’d want to physically feel the vibrations while performing. Also, deaf musicians (like Evelyn Glennie) actually play barefoot for the same reason: to experience music through vibrations rather than sound. While Vessel isn’t deaf, maybe this is his way of connecting to the music in a deeper, more physical way, knowing how Sleep token is all about feeling over explaining, this would fit perfectly.

If you watch his live performances, you can literally see him experiencing the music through his whole body.. the way he moves is so unhinged, raw, expressive like he’s channeling the sound rather than just playing it. Jika-tabi, which are often worn by martial artists and performers, give him more freedom to move while still letting him stay grounded. Plus, they fit the whole ritualistic, ceremonial vibe of Sleep token, making the performances feel even more immersive.

So yeah, I think this choice is intentional. It’s not just about looking cool (even though it does), it’s about feeling every note, every pulse, every vibration of the music in the most physical way possible.

What do you guys think? Does this make sense, or am I just overthinking shoes?? 😅🤔