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Yosuke Ishii
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Hiroshi Yamamoto
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Shuhei Wakiyama
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Yuri Sudo
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Kazuki Sakaguchi
In Naeba.
The Thurston Moore Group, featuring Steve Shelley of Sonic Youth, Debbie Guggie of My Bloody Valentine, and model Devon Ross, who plays a Bass VI. Aside from the star-studded lineup—a veritable “alternative all-stars”—the beautiful noise ensemble felt like a Reiwa-era version of Sonic Youth. Wow, that was quite a show. Speaking of which, Devon Ross—her whole demeanor is just like Kim Gordon. You all thought so too, right?
OUTIL
Uti's Hoodie
I prefer the classic approach.
When it comes to two-tone hoodies, they’re a classic American casual staple. They have a cute, eye-catching look, but whenever I actually tried to wear one, I couldn’t seem to break away from that “THE
American Casual” style, so I ended up avoiding them. But now, after going through a couple of cycles, I’ve come to think that “THE
American casual” look is actually a valid style. I guess you could say I’ve let go of the pressure—I’ve come to enjoy these kinds of items without trying too hard to be unique. The photos feature pieces by . The one on the left is a blue-and-yellow combo reminiscent of UCLA, so I paired it with flared blue jeans and beach sandals for a West Coast-inspired look. The gray-and-burgundy one on the right evokes Harvard, so I went for an Ivy League vibe with chinos and coin loafers. I’m all for the “hoodie guy” look. I want to enjoy wearing hoodies as a grown-up, while still keeping the context in mind.
¥39,600
western arrow
03-6434-0983
Riverside Tool & Dye × NEAT
Riverside Tool & Die × NEET Pants
Remembering the sky over Naeba.
I thoroughly enjoyed all three days of Fuji Rock again this year—it felt just like the Summer of Love. I’ve been inexplicably drawn to tie-dye items lately. That said, bright, primary colors and flashy multicolored designs make me feel a bit queasy, and they’re not very practical for everyday wear. That’s when I came across these pants—a collaboration between the Philadelphia-based textile studio <Riverside
Tool &
Die〉 and 〈Neat〉. They’re based on vintage double-knee painter’s pants that have been bleached white and then tie-dyed in a pale blue. The subdued color makes them easy to pair with other pieces, and you can really feel the warmth that comes from being handcrafted. Above all, they remind me of the blue sky I saw in Naeba—refreshing and delightful!
These are a pair I want to wear until the sunlight fades to a soft yellow.
¥39,600
NEET House Tokyo
090-3335-2110
Instagram:@neat_house_store
BOW WOW
Bow Wow T-shirt
Processed as 8812.
8812. If this four-digit number rings a bell, you’re probably a fashion enthusiast or a vintage clothing lover. It refers to a T-shirt fabric blended from 88 percent cotton and 12 percent rayon, often called “Hachi-Hachi-Ichi-Ni” or “One-Two.” Compared to the 100% cotton fabrics that came before it, this blend is softer and more supple, while also offering greater durability. It’s synonymous with athletic T-shirts and is typically considered a non-fashionable item. However, has succeeded in creating fashion value by applying intricate paint finishes and aging treatments to this fabric. It looks like something you’d find in a vintage store, but you probably wouldn’t. This ability to strike that perfect balance is something only —with its extensive experience digging through vintage clothing—could achieve. The original body, crafted from scratch, is incredibly smooth and exceptionally comfortable to wear—and the quality of the finishes goes without saying. It’s truly a T-shirt that combines the best of both worlds: vintage and brand-new. Personally, I’d love to wear it as an undershirt and let the finishes peek through.
16,500 each
C30
03-6384-5811
Instagram:@c30_bowwow_recognize
c30-bowwow.com
Jōshū Mt. Hotaka Sky View Trail.
This will be my first time participating in the “Jōshū Mt. Hotaka Sky View Trail.” It’s in the HOTAKA category, covering a distance of 138 km. The total elevation gain is a whopping 8,017 m! I-I wonder if I’ll be okay…
Peak Performance
Peak Performance Cap
The Fusion of Sports and Art.
I don’t check it all the time, but when I do take a peek every now and then, it makes me go, “Whoa!” When it comes to unique outdoor gear brands like that, Peak Performance is the one that stands out to me. Take, for example, the active insulation with contour lines printed on it that I introduced before. While I was browsing the Peak Performance website, something caught my eye: this “Trail
Wind
Cap.” It’s a collaboration with Berlin-based Chinese artist Luohan Wang, and they’ve unhesitatingly incorporated her surreal artwork into a performance cap. They’ve effortlessly created a truly unique masterpiece that effortlessly transcends the boundaries between sports and art. By the way, the shopper bag featured alongside the cap is already sold out, and a quick look at their official website reveals that they also offer wind jackets and shorts. Availability in Japan hasn’t been confirmed yet, so be sure to check back frequently.
¥8,250
peak performance
peakperformance.com
DYNAFIT
Dinafit Trail Running Shoes
A presence that sets it apart from the rest.
While it’s nice to rely on the peace of mind that comes with a trusted brand, it can also be fun to try something a little different every now and then to broaden your style. For those moments, I’d like to recommend the Austrian all-around mountain sports brand *Dynafit*. In particular, the “Ultra
100
V3,” designed for long-distance trail running. Not only does it feature an iconic logo inspired by the endangered snow leopard, but its unique color scheme also sets it apart from established sports brands. At the same time, its functionality is impeccable, featuring a voluminous midsole that ensures comfort during long runs and a Vibram Megagrip outsole. I wouldn’t go so far as to call it contrarian, but if you’re looking to stand out from the crowd, why not give it a try?
¥27,720
Dinafit
rexxam.com/dynafit
SUUNTO
Suunto Sports Watches
Long accompaniment.
Since the interfaces of watches vary by manufacturer, it’s a hassle to have to change settings every time. That said, it’s a category that’s evolving rapidly, so whenever a new product comes out, I’m driven by the urge to try it out. So right now, under the guise of “testing,” I’m trying out the “Suunto
Race 2,” a watch from the Finnish brand Suunto. The first thing that impresses me is the battery life of up to
55 hours when using the highest-precision GPS. It boasts performance that makes even long races exceeding 100 km a breeze, while also featuring handy functions like offline maps and sleep tracking—which is a real plus. Plus, the central bezel makes for smooth operation—a subtle but welcome feature. I’m thinking of putting its performance to the test at the “Jōshū Mt. Hotaka Sky View Trail” coming up in September.
¥85,800
Suunto.
apac.suunto.com
I don't know.
The other day, when I asked the AI a question, it suddenly addressed me as “Johnny.” I wondered, “Huh, who is Johnny?” and then realized I’d entered “Johnny” in the username field. I have no idea why I chose that name. But there’s something kind of fun about not knowing.
Le Labo
Le Labo Incense and Holder
A scent wafting through the air.
It is said that, of the five senses, only the sense of smell directly stimulates the amygdala and hippocampus in the brain. The former is linked to emotions, while the latter is linked to memory. Perhaps that’s why a pleasant scent makes us feel happy for some reason. Personally, I’ve had a lot of good experiences with . They’ve launched a new line of incense. The lineup consists of three scents: “Santhal 26,” “Ambroxide 17,” and “Onson
9.” For the past few years, I’ve mostly just burned palo santo at home, but using incense again after so long is really nice. The sense of speed as it burns and its quiet presence remind me of the phrase “impermanence.” Amid the ongoing shift toward digitalization, the sensation of my mind unwinding along with the space feels refreshing. It’s crafted by a long-established Japanese company—that perspective is also very characteristic of 〈Le
Labo〉. An incense holder is included, but I really like the sleek design of the one sold separately.
Incense: ［ (35 sticks), ］ (1 each), ¥ (5,940); Holder: ¥ (8,690)
Le Labo
0570-003-770
lelabofragrances.jp
Undyed by Lefts,
Socks by Undaid by Lefts
Don't dye it, don't mix it.
When summer rolls around, I spend a lot more days wearing sandals. That’s exactly why I want to feel comfortable on the days I do wear shoes. I’ve tried socks made from washi paper—they’re dry and feel nice—but I find myself bothered by the scratchy texture and the sensation of the synthetic fibers mixed in. I also like merino wool socks, but cotton is the most comfortable. And ideally, I’d prefer them without any blends. It’s nearly impossible to find such socks from a durability standpoint, but these socks—made of 100% cotton and 10% T-P, and left undyed—are packed with attention to detail. The brand is “Lefts,” which was born from dyeing clothes with the pulp left over from cold-pressed juices that would otherwise be discarded, and “Undyed
by Lefuts>, a brand launched after Lefuts decided to forgo dyeing following an encounter with farmers in Zambia, Africa. Every time I touch them—whether it’s their philosophy, the look of the thick ribbing, or the enveloping comfort—I’m deeply moved.
¥6,600
Lefts
www.lefts.tokyo
AIAIAI
AII headphones
White, of all things.
When you think of headphones, you think of black. That image is very strong. And that’s especially true for . I’ve always had a strong impression of their cool, solid, minimalist design—all-black and sophisticated. But the new lineup has completely overturned those expectations with white. Starting with the “TMA-2 DJ Wireless”—designed for DJs with low latency and wireless capability—several models are now available in white. What’s more, the unexpected balance created by incorporating orange as an accent color feels incredibly fresh. From a sustainability perspective, 〈I-I-I〉 allows you to purchase individual parts, such as the headband. But as you use them over time, mixing and matching black parts could create a unique look—it’s a fun thought that naturally comes to mind.
¥46,500
Diligent
dirigent.jp
I'd like to be in a different group.
I’ve finally started watching *VIVANT*. Even though I know the discussion—“What is this amazing drama?!”—has been done to death all over Japan, I’d like to say it again. It’s fun to see all the back-and-forth speculation flying around on social media, and it really makes me realize, “Yeah, this is exactly what makes a drama great.” Speaking of this season, *Until the T-Shirt Dries* is also great. It’s fine to leave things up to AI, but I prefer the kind of analysis that takes a down-to-earth, meandering approach.
PUEBCO
Puebco Striped Pants
In search of stripes I haven't seen yet.
This is just my personal opinion, but there are times when I wonder if humanity has already created every possible stripe design. The colors, the stripe patterns, and their combinations are all limited. If that’s the case, I can’t help but think there might come a day when we run out of new variations. However, seeing the striped series that released this summer made me realize that the sky’s the limit. As I mentioned in this article, they base their production in India, and apparently, they found the fabric for these pants at a fabric wholesaler there as well. The silhouette is straight and slightly loose. The left side features a drawstring, while the right side has two elastic bands at the waist, making them comfortable to wear without any fuss. Although they resemble pajama pants, the bold color scheme makes them perfect for everyday wear. I’m in the mood to pair them with a jacket, a collared shirt, and leather shoes for a sharp, put-together look. Returning to my earlier point, I’m sure there are still undiscovered stripes waiting to be found somewhere in the world. Since *Puebco* is the one to find them and bring them to us, let’s wait with excitement.
Left and center photos: ¥7,700; right photo: ¥6,600
PUEBCO SANGENJAYA
090-9140-0579
MEPHISTO.
Mephisto Sandals
The Mephisto Whirlwind.
It’s unclear exactly what sparked it, but “Mephisto” has been steadily gaining popularity lately. Founded in France in 1965, it’s a brand known for comfortable shoes. If I had to describe this brand in one word, it would be “integrity.”
They combine top-quality materials and have been handcrafting their shoes by skilled artisans in the same way they always have. There’s plenty to say about the summer staple “SHARK
FIT,” but above all, its comfort is second to none. The original outsole not only offers excellent elasticity and grip but also incorporates the brand’s proprietary airbag system. Furthermore, the insoles feature both a natural leather footbed and a cork footbed, offering not only a great fit but also excellent moisture-wicking, cushioning, and durability. Design-wise, the color scheme is understated yet sophisticated. While the leather has a rich, substantial feel, the deep green accents give it a distinctly outdoor-casual vibe. The price might make you sit up and take notice, but it’s reasonable if you think of them as sandals that you’ll grow to love over time. I’ve heard that limited-edition models are popping up here and there at various stores. It looks like a Mephisto craze is about to sweep the nation this year.
Each ¥46,200
Cyan International, Inc.
03-3841-1192
Hania Rani
The Hanya Rani Soundtrack
The Impact of the Insert Song.
My list of all-time favorite movies changes from time to time, but *Sentimental Value*, which I watched this year, is definitely a film that will remain in my top 20 even 10 years from now. I’ll refrain from sharing the plot summary or my personal impressions here; instead, I want to talk about the brilliance of the film’s soundtrack. Polish pianist and composer Hania Rani composed the music, and director Joachim Trier was so impressed by her delicate sensibility that he brought her on board for this project. She observed the characters“ unspoken emotions, the shifts in their relationships, and the
”house”—which serves as both the film’s setting and a character in its own right—
—and expressed them through music. At times, the music powerfully drives symbolic scenes forward, while at other times, it wafts subtly from the fringes of the visual narrative. Its role as a soundtrack shifts with each scene. I can’t help but feel a deep respect for the film. Incidentally, while it’s hard to find where to purchase it, I highly recommend enjoying it alongside the movie.
¥4,950
GONDWANA RECORDS
gondwanarecords.com
First time to Fuji Rock .
Among the stellar lineup, Khruangbin was the act I was most looking forward to. They played exotic grooves perfect for a summer night—songs like “August 10” and “Dern Kala II”—and it felt like a dream. TOMORA followed with a barrage of hard-hitting electronic sounds and lights, creating an amazing contrast.
SOUI and KUFU
Side Table and Stool by Soui and Kufu
Add a splash of color to your space.
My room is mostly wood and white. I’d been wanting to add a pop of vibrant color to liven up the space. That’s when I came across the ”DISC
TYPE – ONE” side table and the “DECK TYPE – TWO” stool-and-shelf combo
.” I was drawn to the unique presence created by their shapes and colors. Plus, since they combine warmth with a modern aesthetic, I felt they’d blend in perfectly no matter where I placed them in the room. The structure is extremely simple—the legs, which consist of two trapezoidal plates joined together, simply slot into the tabletop. Both the tabletop and legs come in a wide variety of colors, so you can freely enjoy mixing and matching colors. Since they’re easy to assemble and disassemble, taking them outdoors is a breeze. They’d be perfect for picnics in the park or at the beach. Another key point is that, since they don’t use any screws or other fasteners, the risk of breakage is virtually nonexistent. Incidentally, the brand name comes from the Japanese phrase “creative ingenuity.” It embodies the hope that users will enjoy exercising their own creativity, thanks to the flexibility to personalize the design to their tastes and the freedom to use it in any way they choose.
Left: DISC TYPE – ONE ¥80,000; Right: DECK TYPE – TWO ¥110,000
Soui and Kufu
https://souiandkufu.co.jp
HOLON
Holon's Non-Alcoholic Gin
A summer treat.
If you’re going to run at this time of year, do it before 8 a.m.—it’s best to get it done before it gets hot. After a run, I usually want to treat myself to a big gulp of alcohol, but drinking first thing in the morning makes me feel a little guilty. That’s why I reached for Holon’s non-alcoholic gin. I think the reason we drink isn’t just to get drunk—it’s also largely about the sense of reward. If it’s a special drink that lifts your spirits, I figure it can fulfill that role even if it isn’t actual alcohol. This “Horon Gin Original 0.00%” may be non-alcoholic, but its aroma and flavor are authentic. Blended with Eastern botanicals like igusa, wild rose, and mago, it delivers a botanical aroma that makes you want to take a deep breath, along with a fresh, crisp, and clear taste. The refreshing, lush grassy notes derived from igusa are perfect for recharging after a summer morning run. It also seems like a great way to take a mental break while working.
¥ 4,800 (500 ml)
Holon
holongin.com
mont-bell
My companion for my first Fuji Rock.
I finally got to attend my first Fuji Rock Festival for three days. From the Red Marquee to the Orange Echo, I walked all over the vast festival grounds to catch my favorite artists, and I was even able to make it all the way to Takkyu on the final day at 29:00—and it’s no exaggeration to say this was all thanks to Montbell’s “L.W. Trail Chair
26.” Its biggest appeal is its compactness. When folded, it measures just 35 cm in length and fits perfectly into a 12-liter trail running pack, making it easy to carry. Weighing only 375 g, it’s no burden even when carried all day. Its simple design—allowing you to sit down and fold it up instantly—is also appealing. I really like the vibrant orange color, too. Even if I leave it behind while I step away to buy a drink, it stands out so I can find it right away, and it blends beautifully with the natural surroundings. I’m truly impressed by Montbell’s overwhelming value for money—all this for just 3,900 yen.
¥3,900
Montbell Customer Service
06-6536-5740
www.montbell.jp
