Vans' too high-tech shoes that can beat any weather.

Vans" is a low-tech brand. There are no superfluous decorations in any of their shoes, and they usually don't incorporate features. This is the biggest appeal of "Vans" and the reason why skaters love them so much. However, the "MTE" series overturns this image. It is waterproof, warm, and grippy, with ultra-high-tech specifications. They are quite popular. For this issue, we took snaps in Tokyo and Hokkaido. We asked 10 people from completely different living environments, in the city and in the field, in the north and in the south, how they felt wearing the shoes.

Photo_Shingo Goya

Text_Keisuke Kimura

Edit_Soma Takeda

Sample.3 Kyohei Kameda / THE SHOEGAZER

PROFILE

Kyohei Kameda

THE SHOEGAZER

Born in Utashinai City, Hokkaido. Moved to Tokyo upon graduation from high school. After graduation, worked at "Ships," "Cyrus," and "Bender," and returned to Hokkaido upon the opening of "Bender" Sapporo in 2012, where he currently works as a buyer for "THE SHOEGAZER.
Instagram:@kkkameda

Have you ever worn "Vans" before?

When I was younger, I liked "Skate High," "Old School," and "Half Cab," but in my late 30s, I started wearing "Era" and "Authentic. I often bought special-order items, so I considered "Vans" more of a fashion item than skate shoes.

How do you feel about the comfort of this new model?

This is the first time I've worn such a model, but they are chunky, the cushioning inside is soft, and they are crazy easy to wear. I also like that they don't have laces, so I can put them on quickly. Also, I live in a snowy area, so I'm concerned about waterproofness. In winter, I walk on snow, so they get wet easily. In that respect, too, these are great.

What kind of fashion do you usually wear?

I wear a mixture of new and old clothes. I have a variety of styles, from street to mode, so I think I can match these "Vans" with pretty much anything.

Do you see any differences in the way of life in your former home in Tokyo and your current home in Hokkaido?

In terms of fashion, I feel that the cold weather demands realistic warm clothes and toughness, such as products using GORE-TEX and mountain boots. When I talk with customers at the store, I hear that more gear-like products are needed in real life.