Nanyang was established in 1948 by Thai-Chinese entrepreneur Su Ting Fang (Sutin Sosothikul) in Bangkok. The company initially imported shoes before beginning domestic manufacturing in the early 1950s as demand for affordable and durable footwear increased in Thailand. [2]

A major milestone came in 1957, when the company introduced its now-iconic green-soled canvas badminton shoe. Originally designed for badminton players, the shoe quickly gained popularity among students, workers, and the general public because of its durability, grip, and affordability. Over the decades, the design changed very little, becoming one of Thailand’s most recognizable shoes. [3]

During the 1990s, Nanyang added its English “Nanyang” wordmark directly onto its shoes to distinguish genuine products from imitations that had become common in the market. [4]

Nanyang manufactures several categories of footwear, including:

• Canvas sneakers

• Student school shoes

• Badminton shoes

• Casual rubber shoes

• Rubber flip-flops (especially the famous Chang Dao line)

• Lifestyle footwear

The brand is particularly known for using natural rubber soles, a feature that has contributed to its reputation for comfort and longevity. According to company statements, it has produced hundreds of millions of pairs of shoes since beginning manufacturing. [5]

Nanyang has built its reputation around three core qualities:

• Durability

• Simplicity

• Affordable pricing

Unlike many athletic footwear companies that release new collections every season, Nanyang has historically maintained consistent designs while making gradual improvements to materials and manufacturing. This conservative approach has helped the brand remain popular for generations in Thailand. [6]

The company manufactures its footwear in Thailand and is known for incorporating locally sourced natural rubber into many of its shoe soles. Its long-running production methods emphasize durability over fashion trends. [7]

Although Nanyang does not have the same market share in the Philippines as global sportswear brands, its products are available through online retailers, particularly in the Men’s Shoes category on Lazada Philippines. Philippine buyers commonly purchase Nanyang canvas sneakers because they are known for:

• Classic vintage styling

• Heavy-duty canvas construction

• Thick rubber soles

• Good value for everyday wear

• Suitability for casual use and light sports

Most listings in the Philippines describe the shoes as Made in Thailand, reflecting their country of manufacture. [8]

Nanyang follows a practical design philosophy centered on:

• Function before fashion

• Long product lifespan

• Reliable grip and comfort

• Minimal changes to iconic models

• Accessible pricing

While the company has introduced occasional limited editions and modern colorways, its classic white and black canvas shoes remain its signature products. [9]

For more than seven decades, Nanyang has remained one of Thailand’s most enduring footwear brands. Its canvas school shoes and badminton shoes have become cultural icons, recognized by multiple generations of students, athletes, and workers. The brand continues to balance its traditional identity with selective product updates while expanding its reach through online marketplaces across Southeast Asia. [10]

1. 南洋 (品牌)

2. Bangkok Post – Robust Nanyang steps into the future

3. รองเท้านันยาง | ทุกก้าวคือตำนาน

4. Buy NANYANG SHOES Sneakers for sale online | Lazada Philippines

5. NANYANG SHOES ORIGINAL MADE IN THAILAND | Shopee Philippines

6. Shoe brand Nanyang sees red

7. Nanyang Launches Moo Deng-Inspired Sandals to Boost Business

8. Our Story – Zanea Shoes

9. NANYANG SHOES ORIGINAL MADE IN THAILAND | Shopee Philippines

10. Shop Nanyang Shoes Budget Mile at Best Prices and Deals | Lazada Philippines