Tips for using Jikatabi on steep pitches that nobody talks about

I picked up a pair of Marugo Jikatabi last summer when we were sheeting a steep 10/12 addition. You aren't kidding about the tactile feedback. Being able to essentially wrap your big toe around a batten or just feel the edge of the OSB makes a huge difference compared to my old Red Wings. It feels more like climbing than walking up there.

One thing I struggled with was the lack of arch support. After eight hours on a pitch, my feet were absolutely barking. I ended up getting some thin inserts and trimming them to fit the split-toe shape, which helped a bit without ruining that ground feel. Also, if you’re working on a hot day, the black canvas gets pretty warm. I usually switch back to my boots for the ground work becasue walking on gravel or accidentally stepping on a stray 16d nail in these is no joke.

For anyone on the fence, I'd suggest looking for the Rikio brand. The rubber seems to hold up a bit better against the friction of the sheeting. Just be ready for the guys on the crew to give you some grief about the ninja shoes untill they see you moving twice as fast as them on the rafters.

I've only ever used standard work boots from the hardware store, so the idea of "ninja shoes" is pretty wild to me. I'm still getting my sea legs on anything above a 4/12 pitch. Does the split-toe design actually help with balance for a beginner, or is it mostly for pros who already know where to place their feet? I'm also a bit confused about the sizing. If I'm usually a size 10 US, how do you even figure out the right fit? I'd be worried about them being too loose while I'm trying not to slide off a roof. Is there a specific way to measure for these?

You're spot on about the Rikios holding up better. I've found that the natural tan gum soles actualy stay 'tackier' on dusty OSB compared to the black rubber ones once they start to wear down. One thing people usally forget is that the canvas stretches after a few heavy days of use. I always buy mine a half-size small so that once they break in, your foot isn't sliding around when you're side-loading on a 9/12. If they get too loose, you lose that precision and start rolling over the edge of the sole.

Don't forget about the 'air' versions if you're worried about your heels. I've got some with a bit of a cushion in the heel and it's a lifesaver for those long days on a 12/12. It doesn't mess with the toe feel but stops that bone-on-wood jarring. Just watch out if you're working in the rain though—once that canvas gets soaked, they're like wearing heavy sponges and you'll lose all that grip advantage. Definitely keep a backup pair of boots in the truck for when the weather turns.

Update: Thanks for the tips. I acutally grabbed a pair of those 'air' versions after reading that suggestion. My heels were definitly taking a beating on those steeper pitches. One question for the guys using the tan gum soles—do you find they leave any scuffs on finished metal roofs, or are they strictly for OSB? I'm curious if they stay just as tacky on steel.