When it comes to trail running before and after, recovery sandals are the standard footwear. However, in the winter season, it is too cold for sandals. The first recovery footwear brand in Japan, "rig FOOTWEAR," has responded to this need. With synthetic fiber-insulated uppers and waterproof breathable membrane inserts, your feet will be warm and toasty even in the coldest of weather, and you will be able to recover from fatigue.
The mood is at its best when the taiko drums ring out at Nikko Toshogu, a World Heritage site!
The best seasons for trail running are spring and fall. The best time to run trails is in spring and fall, especially when the mountains are colorful with the changing leaves of autumn. The Nikko National Park Mountain Running Competition is a race that is held every year in such a wonderful location. The race starts and finishes at a dreamy location on Omotesando, a road that leads to Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which is decorated with the changing colors of autumn leaves.
The race is in three categories: long (56km), middle (35km), and short (15km). The course director is Yukari Hoshino, a mountain runner active in Japan and abroad. The long course starts from Iroha-zaka, which has 48 curves, to Oku-Nikko. Lake Chuzenji and Mt. Nantai, the pride of Nikko City, can be seen. The middle course utilizes the Nikko Kirifuri Kogen area. Visitors can enjoy the Sky Corridor with 1,445 steps and the Hyakko Trail, which utilizes the former ski resort site. The short course is part of the route of the Inari River erosion control weir group hiking course, which offers a panoramic view of the oldest existing erosion control weir group built using the stone culture of the Nikko area.
From "HOUYHNHNM Running Club♡", Hiroshi Yamamoto, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of HOUYHNHNM's, and Hideaki Makino, Fashion Running Advisor, participated in the middle course. They enjoyed the course with its spectacular scenery.
Nikko is almost like my hometown, so I look forward to it every year. I did not aim for any rankings or times, but just took it easy and enjoyed the race. As long as the event continues to be held, I will come back every year.
I heard that this year was the coldest so far, but I enjoyed the race. I have participated in this race every year, so there were volunteers and others who knew each other, and they took care of us.
Unlikely winter recovery footwear.
Makino and Yamamoto wore "doob" recovery footwear from Rig Footwear on their way from Tokyo to the venue.
Rig Footwear is Japan's first recovery footwear brand that uses a footbed based on the characteristics of the Japanese foot. Thanks to its high shock-absorbing properties, the foot can relax to the maximum extent, and this is an excellent product that promotes recovery from fatigue. The brand has also collaborated with lifestyle brands such as "narifuri" and "non-native," and is a must-see from the standpoint of its design sense.
Left:doob suede beef & broccoli 18,480 yen
Right:doob suede navy gray 18,480 yen
Recovery Footwear" may remind you of sandals, but "Rig Footwear" also offers shoes. The "Dove" shoes worn by the two this time are also shoe-type, with synthetic fiber insulation and a warm liner on the upper, and waterproof breathable film inserts, so they can be used before and after trail runs and snow activities in the winter season.
The sole unit has the same construction as Rig Footwear's recovery sandals to maximize recovery and relaxation. The soft and cushioned footbed is made of EVA with antibacterial and deodorant properties. This reduces the burden on the feet and back compared to normal sandals. In addition, the arch of the arch of the foot has an effect similar to that of stepping on green bamboo, which supports the arch that has been lowered due to fatigue and improves blood flow. The midsole is made of thick-soled, full-compression EVA to maintain cushioning. The bucket shape of the midsole prevents wobbling, which is common in recovery footwear, and provides a stable and comfortable fit.
When I was looking for a recovery sandal that would hold up well, be lightweight, and allow me to run for a while, I came across Rigg. I was looking for a recovery sandal that would hold up well, be lightweight, and have no problems running for a bit. Therefore, my image of "Rig Footwear" is a brand that can make "recovery sandals that can be used for running" (laughs). The "Doove" sandals I am wearing today can be tightened at the instep, so I can run. Of course, if you want to relax, you can also wear them as sandals with the heel down, which is also convenient. From a fashion standpoint, I like the combination of different materials and the exquisite coloring, but most of all, I like the fact that you can't tell the brand at a glance. I often wear thicker pants, so shoes with this much volume feel right at home.
I was interested in these sandals because of their lightness of footwork, and because of their active collaboration with fashion brands. When I actually tried them on, I found that they were very firm, and they overturned my notion of recovery sandals as soft and fluffy soles. However, when I actually wear them for a long time, I feel less tired if they are a little stiffer. I also like this point. The outsole is similar to that of outdoor shoes, so I don't have to worry about walking off-road. The "Doove" shoes are warm and waterproof, so I can go anywhere I want to go. The insole is also included for comfort. The design of combining suede with technical materials is also good. They are easy to coordinate with casual wear.
It's hard to find recovery footwear that is warm, waterproof, and specialized for the winter season. Runners and non-runners, athletes and non-athletes alike should take note of Rig Footwear and Doove.
Photo&Text_Tatsuo Takahashi
