Souki Socks – a sock manufacturing factory located in Nara Prefecture, Japan, has invented a machine that allows individuals to knit their own socks by pedaling on a stationary bike.
Unless you’re a fan of knitting, you might find the process of making socks not particularly enjoyable. This is the reality that the brilliant minds at Souki Socks faced when they set out to make sock manufacturing more fun.
Fortunately, they devised a clever method that combines a mechanical sock knitting machine with a bicycle, enabling almost anyone to knit their own socks simply by pedaling.
Named “Charix”, this machine has gained popularity among tourists since its launch in 2017.
Knitting machines were once common in Japan during the 1990s, but as the hype around socks faded, manufacturers ceased production, and these machines became relics of a bygone era.
However, Souki Socks has breathed new life into these machines by elevating them onto stationary bikes, allowing factory visitors to knit their own socks.
Socks knitted by pedaling a bicycle.
Before starting to pedal, factory visitors can choose the sock size and the color of the yarn they wish to use.
Making a pair of socks is said to take about 10 minutes, just enough to keep things from becoming boring.
After you finish pedaling, staff will sew the toes and finish the knitted socks right on the spot so you can take them home.
Since these sock knitting machines are no longer in production, whenever a part breaks, Souki Socks must custom-make it to continue their Charix project, but public interest in it makes it all worthwhile.
In fact, the demand for pedal-operated knitted socks has surged to the point where Souki recently launched a new option for customers.
With the Covid-19 pandemic limiting travel opportunities, many people have not had the chance to visit the factory and knit their own socks, prompting Souki to allow others to knit socks for customers.
Charix Online enables customers to select sock sizes and 3 colors from a total of 36, before assigning a cyclist from Souki Socks’ staff list.
The sock knitting process is then posted on social media as proof. The price of a pair of socks through Charix Online is 2,200 yen ($18.50).
So, if you’re in Hikiso, Nara Prefecture, and want to experience pedaling as a way to knit your own socks, don’t hesitate to visit Souki Socks.
