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 Beyan / manager, tempra cycle

PROFILE

sleepyhead

tempra cycle Manager

Born in Kyoto , 35 years old. Moved to Tokyo to become a photographer. After working as a freelance photographer, he started working at "tempra cycle" when he turned 30. On his days off, he enjoys bikepacking and mountain biking.
Instagram:@tempra_cycle

What is your image of "Vans"?

Because they are a skate brand, I used to wear them a lot when I was riding BMX. The Pro Series has a solid sole, and the insole can be changed, which I appreciated as a BMXer.

What is your favorite model?

I guess it's "old school" after all. I used to use "Era" all the time as my everyday shoes.

How do you feel about the comfort of the model you wore this time?

They have more cushioning than the "Vans" shoes I have worn up to now. I used to avoid midsole models because I didn't want my heels to rub against them, but these have a raised material that makes them very comfortable to wear.

How about the design?

The design is well skehaired, so it's easy to match it with any outfit. And yet, it's quite nice to know that they are safe even when it suddenly rains or snows.

Speaking of Bayan, you are an outdoorsy person, but what kind of occasions do you wear your shoes for?

. It's just right for light mountain climbing or camping. Also, in winter, the concrete floor in the store of "tempra cycle" gets very cold. . So, I think the warmth of this work will be quite useful.

I think you do a lot of physical activity, both at work and in your private life.

. I used to do BMX, so I tend to go for street brands. I also do mountain climbing and running, so I sometimes mix street-like items with functional ones. In that sense, the "Vans" shoes I was asked to wear this time are what I'm wearing right now.