FEATURE | TIE UP

Translated By DeepL

Add a pair of Kalf's retro running shoes to your fall wardrobe.
The Past Meets the Present

Add a pair of Kalf's retro running shoes to your fall wardrobe.

Art, reading, food, sports… Fall is a season that stirs all sorts of desires. And, of course, that includes fashion. With the sweaty summer behind us, getting dressed becomes so much more fun. As we head into fall, one trend that’s catching our eye is the modern authentic style. Here’s a look at the retro running shoes from Finland’s KARHU, which blend seamlessly into warm, cozy outfits.

  • Photo_Riku Ikeya
  • Styling: Kazami Ohsawa
  • Model: Tsubasa Nasu (Friday), YUNOSUKE (BRAVO models)
  • Edit_Shuhei Wakiyama

Retro running shoes from Finland.

With running’s popularity showing no signs of waning, more and more people are wearing performance shoes around town. Modern shoes designed for functionality are certainly appealing. However, when paired with authentic fall clothing—such as jackets and coats—they can sometimes look a bit out of place.

Retro running shoes are the perfect choice for occasions like these. They combine the light, springy feel typical of running shoes with a touch of classic style. They pair naturally with sleek pieces like jackets and coats, adding just the right amount of sportiness to your fall look.

This time, we’ve teamed up with the Finnish brand “Kalf.” Founded in 1916, the brand boasts a long history and continues to create running shoes that embody Nordic functional beauty and unique design. While producing performance shoes that incorporate the latest technology, the brand also offers lifestyle models that are modern updates of its historical archives. The brand’s lineup honors the history of running shoes while offering styles that blend seamlessly with today’s fashion.

〈Kalf〉 Fulcrum Star: 1 TP9T17,600 each (Seed Corporation)

Among these, the model I’d like to highlight right now is the “Fulcrum Star,” which was reissued this past August. First introduced in 1987, this road running shoe features “Fulcrum,” a proprietary technology that applies the principle of leverage to convert the impact of landing into forward propulsion.

With its voluminous silhouette and distinctive sole, this shoe exudes a sporty presence while maintaining a certain understated elegance. It strikes just the right balance—even when paired with fall jackets or coats, it won’t look out of place.

〈Kalf〉 Mestari: ¥15,400–¥16,500 each (Seed Corporation)

Another must-see is the classic “MESTARI.” This model is a reissue of the “Champion Air,” the world’s first shoe to feature an air cushion, which debuted in 1977. With cumulative sales of over 1 million pairs, it is also one of ’s signature styles.

Compared to the “Fulcrum Star,” these shoes have a more understated silhouette and a more retro vibe. With their sleek design and wide range of colors, they’re the perfect shoes for those who want to enjoy a touch of understated individuality.

Both feature uppers that combine suede and mesh in a style reminiscent of the ’70s and ’80s. Yet, when paired with authentic clothing, they create a somewhat modern and lighthearted impression. For your fall wardrobe, ’s retro running shoes bring a fresh sense of balance. Enjoying timeless classics with a contemporary twist—perhaps that’s what makes this choice so satisfying. After all, fall is a nostalgic season.

Click here to read the article in the sibling magazine Girlfinum.
INFORMATION

seed corporation

CALF official site
Instagram:.@karhu_jp

KARHU TOKYO

The “KARHU TOKYO” showroom in Sendagaya is set to undergo a long-awaited renovation this fall. You can now purchase KARHU sneakers sold in Japan right on the spot. The understated interior features a wide selection ranging from the lifestyle models featured in this article to the latest running shoes. Why not come by and experience the distinctive Scandinavian design for yourself?

Address: IVYWORKS, 2nd Floor, 5-1-11 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Phone: 03-5919-2220
Hours: 12:00-19:00
Closed: Wednesday

outer limits
info@outerlimits.co.jp

AMWB
Instagram:.@amwb-official/

Kingstar
0120-818-828

ジャーナル スタンダード表参道メンズ
03-6418-7961

HyTide (brand name for hydrogen peroxide)
092-533-3335

Barbour Partners Japan
03-6380-9170

PR One Tokyo
03-5774-1408

Mashita Trading
03-6412-7081

Lee Mills & Company
03-5784-1238

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