Sofubi refers to a style of Japanese vinyl toy manufacturing that emerged in the late 20th century. "Sofubi" is a shortened form of "soft vinyl," highlighting the soft and pliable nature of the material used in making these toys. This manufacturing technique gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly for producing toys and collectibles.
Sofubi toys are typically produced through a process of rotocasting or rotational molding, where liquid vinyl is poured into a mold and rotated to evenly coat the interior, creating a hollow but durable figure once cooled and solidified. This technique allows for intricate designs and often vibrant, eye-catching colours.
These toys come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from small figures to larger, more detailed ones. They're often associated with kaiju (giant monsters) and characters from Japanese pop culture, including manga, anime, and tokusatsu (live-action special effects) shows.
Collectors appreciate sofubi for their unique designs, limited editions, and often handmade qualities. Artists and toy designers frequently collaborate to create limited runs or one-of-a-kind pieces, adding to the allure and collectibility of sofubi toys.
Some famous sofubi toy manufacturers include companies like Medicom Toy, Bullmark, Marusan, and many independent artists and studios creating their own distinctive figures within the sofubi tradition.