FEATURE

Translated By DeepL

SNEAKER INFO. Vol.2 Sneakers in 2021.
MONTHLY JOURNAL FEB.2021

SNEAKER INFO Vol.2
Sneaker situation in 2021.

From the latest performance shoes to limited editions, collaborations, faithful reissues, and even top maisons, the sneaker market is growing larger and larger every year. So what are the sneaker trends for 2021? We would like to find the answer to this question by asking the directors of sneaker stores that lead the Japanese sneaker scene about this year's sneakers, information on new releases, and sneaker styles proposed by popular select stores.

Case.1

BEAMS

PROFILE

Keita Kobayashi (31)
Assistant Buyer

. Born in Fukui Prefecture in 1989. . 6 years of service. After graduating from high school , moved to Tokyo for further education. Studied abroad in Seattle for a year during his junior year of college. After graduation, he went to Toronto, Canada on a working holiday, and in 2013, he traveled around the U.S. , traveling 16,000 km in a rental car for about a month. . He enjoys traveling. . His favorite artist is The Lumineers, which he used to listen to when he came to the U.S.

New Balance sneakers ¥28,000+tax, Arc'teryx outerwear ¥22,000+tax, Theatra jacket ¥34,000+tax, pants ¥34,000+tax (all at BEAMS Harajuku 03-3470-3947), Other personal belongings

Sneaker Comment "new balance M920

. the latest model from Made in England. It features a hybrid design that combines a modern silhouette upper with the sole of the M990v3, and even though it is made in the UK, I like the somewhat American look. Since its release, it has spawned a variety of special orders and is a model to watch in the future."

Styling Comment

The monotone style is based on a classic Theatra set-up . . I'm also wearing a versatile Squamish hoodie by Arc'teryx over it. It is a simple styling with similar colors, but I personally like the selection of items that are not too serious.

Nike Sportswear sneakers ¥16,500+tax, BEAMS coat ¥25,000+tax, shirt ¥12,000+tax, pants ¥11,000+tax (all at BEAMS Harajuku 03-3470-3947), other personal effects

Sneaker Comment "NIKE AIR MAX 1 LV8

. the Air Max 1 LV8 is an upgraded version of a design that has remained unchanged since 1987. It inherits the running shoe's lightweight cushioning and classic silhouette, but adds bold new colors and an innovative design. It's a royal model that blends in with today's styling."

Styling Comment

. basically everything is styled in a loose fit. M-65 mod coats with lots of pockets, stretchy sweat pants, and big-size shirts are exactly what I'm in the mood for. I recommend the original BEAMS label, which has many items that can be worn by a big guy like me."

Converse sneakers ¥12,000+TAX, Champion x BEAMS sweatshirt ¥11,800+TAX, New Era x BEAMS cap ¥4,500+TAX (all at BEAMS Harajuku 03-3470-3947), other personal effects

Sneaker Comment "CONVERSE ALL STAR JAPAN OX

. "The Converse All Star no longer needs to be talked about. . Among them, this will be the Japanese-made version that has been developed as a standard. This model best embodies the silhouette of the All Star of the late '80s, which I personally love, and as a lover of vintage clothing, it is a convenient pair that is not too stiff.

Styling Comment

. The image is that of an American going to the ball park, with normal, realistic styling. . It's a way of dressing that is unobtrusive and personal. All of the items are standard items, but when you look at them individually, each has its own playfulness, such as the crazy-pattern sweatshirts, vintage denim pants, and special-order "New Era" items.

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