. It is rare to find a model that can make such a different impression with a single pair. (Kunii)
Westsider Low Weather Violet / Desert Sage Nubuck (January 27)
So the "CA805" series has been well received by sneaker freaks. . And now, here is the new model "Westsider Low Weather (Westsider Low Weather)" to be released.
Kunii: I saw the real thing for the first time.
Kojima: At the exhibition, it was still in data form, so this is the first time I am holding it in my hands. Is it more rugged than the "CA805"?
Kunii: Indeed . A little bit chunkier, I guess. But just because it's lightweight doesn't mean it's all good. If there is a certain amount of weight, when you walk, your feet will be propelled like a pendulum. . I haven't worn them yet, so I can't say for sure.
Kojima: Come to think of it, the number of people who call them "dad shoes" has decreased. It's more like it's become a new style for each brand.
Kunii: The name "dad shoes" had a strong impact on the trend, but the chunky sole unit has become a new standard rather than a trend. Starting with dud shoes, platform-type soles were also popular among women, and last year, sandals with chunky silhouettes were also popular. I thought the popularity of this trend might have calmed down, but it is still in stores, and since many models with chunky soles will be released this spring/summer season as well, I think it has become established as a category.
Kojima: These have waterproof leather uppers, and the nylon part of the shoe tongue has a water repellent finish, right? I think this is good, as many customers are concerned about functionality.
Kunii: . yes, I agree. Waterproof and water-repellent sneakers are very much on the rise. For town use, hydrogen-repellent materials and gusseted tongue are comfortable enough.
Kojima: Ag® is known for its sheepskin boots, so I can feel the brand's background in the use of leathers such as suede and nubuck. . And although they are leather, they also meet the need for waterproofness.
Kunii: . but if you change the material, it would look different. Sneakers from sports brands can be categorized by sport, such as running or tennis, for example . Lifestyle brands like [agu®] don't have that kind of categorization, so depending on the material and color, they can look like outdoor shoes or running shoes. Sneakers from sports brands are inevitably categorized by sport, so no matter how much you change the colors and materials, there is still a limit to how much you can frame them. It is rare to find a model that can give such a different impression with a single pair of sneakers.
Kojima: . the coloring is also unique and interesting.
The theme for the spring/summer 2021 season of "ag®" is "evoke the senses. The design source and color palette are inspired by the California wilderness, and the "Westsider Low Weather" color scheme is reminiscent of the 90's with a nod to those colors.
Kunii: . the image of "ag®" has always been strongly associated with the ocean, but the coloring is interesting in that it reminds me of the mountains. . Of course, there is also a neutral monotone lineup.
Kojima: . I commute by bicycle, so the reflectors on the piping are a plus.
Kunii: . I like the way the reflectors are used, like a luxury brand sneaker. . It's a nice combination of luxury brand for decorative beauty and sports brand for functional beauty.
