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Sneaker Freak's Realistic Shoe Selection. Vol.8 Ryu Kamiya
HOUYHNHNM SNEAKER RELAY

Sneaker Freak's Realistic Shoe Selection.
Vol.8 Ryu Kamiya

The sneaker market continues to expand, with the latest performance shoes, limited editions, collaborations, faithful reissues, and even top maisons participating. What are the perspectives of the sneaker experts, what models do they choose, and what do they actually wear? We will introduce the real shoe choices of the best sneaker freaks in the industry in a relay format. This time, Ryu Kamiya, a freelance planner, was introduced by Yuki Naito in the previous issue. We asked him to name five pairs that he particularly likes these days, and asked him why he chose each of them and what he likes about them.

  • Photo_Erina Takahashi
  • Text_Issey Enomoto
  • Edit_Hiroshi Yamamoto

05:MOON STAR × JOURNAL STANDARD relume_EX Slide Elegant with a slender wooden form.

Lastly, a simple slip-on. What brand is this?

Kamiya:This is a special-order model by "Moonstar" for "Journal Standard Relume," and it was just released this year. This is actually the first sneaker that I was involved in the production of.

I see. Can you tell us what you focused on in terms of design and details?

Kamiya:While based on a model that Moonstar has had for some time, we chose the slimmest possible wooden pattern and rearranged it into a sharp design. We also eliminated tags and logos as much as possible to create a simple and elegant atmosphere.

MoonStar has a solid reputation for craftsmanship, doesn't it?

Kamiya:This is also made in Japan, at our own factory in Kurume. There is no doubt about the high quality. If you have never tried them on, we would like you to give them a try.

You can have as many pairs of sneakers as you like.

K: The sneakers you mentioned this time are mainly authentic types such as "Vans" and "Converse," but what are your criteria for selecting sneakers?

Kamiya:I like sharp, handsome designs, not just sneakers. As for shoes, I have a narrow foot, and I am not fond of voluminous and bulky designs. I rarely wear high-tech shoes such as Air Max, and I don't choose voluminous CTs even from "Converse.

I know that many of the sneakers you mentioned have been worn for many years. Is it because you are attached to them that you keep wearing the same ones?

Kamiya:In the past, I was not good at wearing sneakers and only wore boots. That is why it is such a joy when I find a pair of sneakers that suit me and that I can wear. If I like a pair of sneakers, I wear them all the time, and I always buy more of the same pair as spares. I can have as many pairs of sneakers as I like.

Sneakers are consumable items, and they will have a limited lifespan. I understand the desire to keep a lot of your favorite sneakers on hand for when they are worn out and falling apart. Well, I can't stop talking about it, but I think it's time to send your friends to .......

Kamiya:Meet Ryo Nonaka of . He is quite a sneaker enthusiast, and his Instagram is overflowing with love for sneakers. Personally, I can think of no one who looks as good in sneakers as he does. I am sure he will mention some interesting sneakers.

I'm looking forward to it. Thank you very much for your time today!

PROFILE

Ryu Kamiya
freelance planner

Born in 1988. After working for a select store and a domestic brand, established Engalfer Co. While working as a freelance planner on planning and design for various fashion brands, he is also involved in his own brand, "Alone.

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