Craftsmanship for all three.
-What is your impression of New Balance?
Shallow leaves: A driving force, both in design and in exercise. I think they give me motivation. Wearing them makes me want to run and gives me strength.
Ishii: We worked without sleep on this new collection, and we all bought a new pair of "New Balance" shoes to give ourselves a final motivation.
Ii High: That is what I am wearing today.
Ishii: I'm looking forward to receiving it, and I'm going to work hard to get it one more time (laughs). It is my favorite brand and I adore it.
Ii High: I also admire New Balance. I have never met the craftsmen in the U.S. and the U.K., but I can clearly feel the craftsmanship of the brands. They have been making good products for a long time, and they continue to challenge innovative techniques, which we respect in our manufacturing.
-What craftsmanship do you value?
Shallow leaves: Attention to detail and finishing. It is said that God is in the details, and how far you can go with the finishing touches. I think that is craftsmanship.
Ishii: I think it is the feeling that is the biggest factor. I am determined to go this far.
Shallow leaves: Indeed, feelings are important, too.
Ii High: That is love, isn't it? The craftsmen who make the shoes for New Balance must love the brand, and I can sense their desire to please the users. When we make a product, we are very happy if the people who see it are moved or have a positive feeling, so we value craftsmanship in which we put our feelings into our work while loving it.
-What are your thoughts on the 120th anniversary of "New Balance" next year?
Shallow leaves: It is an honor to have our designs remain on a page in the 120-year history of the company.
Ishii: Seriously, that's it.
Ii High: We will continue to make things, and I hope you will continue to inspire us with your wonderful products.
Ishii: Seriously, that's it.
Ii High: That's all I have to say (laughs), and I want to continue to emulate the attitude of New Balance, which has been around for 120 years.
