We want to spread the joy of finding new combinations.
What do you think is the appeal of "Red Wing" when you actually wear them?
Abe:I think this is a place where you don't have to choose your style unexpectedly. I think there used to be an unspoken rule that "Red Wing" must be worn with denim. But when you try them on freely without being bound by such rules or stereotypes, you will find that they go surprisingly well with any style.
It is true that today's style of Mr. Abe is not a so-called "heavy-duty" combination, but matches with a slim and somewhat mode-inspired outfit.
Abe:Some of my favorite brands also offer styling that combines boots with slim-fitting clothes, and I am strongly influenced by such fashion brands. Red Wing's boots have a very smart ankle opening, so even if you combine them with thin pants, they fit neatly into the hem. That's why I think they can be worn in a natural way, without making the footwear too voluminous.
Red Wing is an American brand, and of course it goes well with American casual items, but I would like to spread the joy of finding new combinations by removing these stereotypes. In today's street fashion, mixing and matching is the best part of styling,Previously in "HOUYHNHNM'sAs Mr. Fujii of "Non-native" did with functional clothes and plain-toe boots in "Non-native," I am conscious of my own freedom to combine them.
Besides the fashion element, are there any other practical aspects that appeal to you?
Abe:They are very easy to wear. In particular, the cushioning of the "Super Sole" is addictive. As you wear Irish Setter shoes, the insole sinks in with the shape of your foot, and the fit improves. The leather will also become more comfortable, and I think that is something that can only be created by wearing the shoes. I think you may experience shoe cramps due to the compatibility with the boots, but some people have posted on "#MyOnlyREDWINGS" that "that's also a good memory" (laugh).
Red Wing's leather quality is very high, isn't it?
Abe:Yes, there is a video on Youtube that explains the production of leather, but all the leather used in Red Wing boots is made in our own factory under proper management. The leather is of really high quality and robust, so it would normally be more expensive, but we are able to provide high quality products at a reasonable price because we consistently produce the leather in our own factory.
That's one of the big attractions, isn't it?
Abe:I think that because we produce consistently in our own factory, our craftsmen are able to work with the same awareness and purpose, and this kind of passion is also reflected in our products.
How do you take care of yourself on a daily basis?
Abe:I only brush them when I am concerned about dirt. It is often said that boots and leather shoes need to be cleaned on the day they are worn, but I wear them roughly. Of course, the minimum amount of care is necessary for long-lasting wear, and I think there is a certain coolness that comes from doing so. But Red Wing boots are work boots, and for me personally, wearing them roughly is just fine. I only brush these engineer boots when I notice them, but the leather is getting nice and fluffy, and I'm loving them more and more each time I wear them.
