TSUGI SHINSEI" is a new challenge for Puma.

-Would you please tell us your impression when you first saw "TSUGI SHINSEI"?

small treeI was impressed by the innovative design, which is different from PUMA's previous sneakers.

When people in select stores, including myself, choose sneakers, we tend to prefer slip-ons. If the laces are too assertive, it tends to clutter up the footwear when considering coordination. Therefore, I think that laces are one of the key points in sneaker coordination.

In this respect, the "TSUGI SHINSEI" looks like a slip-on since the laces are placed on the sides. But unlike ordinary slip-ons, it has a moderate volume. It is a unique design that has never been seen before.

The name "TSUGI" is also interesting, as it expresses the idea of a new sneaker for the next generation. The name "TSUGI" is also likely to appeal to people overseas who love Japan.

-How do you see the "TSUGI SHINSEI" design from a fashion point of view?

small treeWe are a select store, not a sneaker store, so we view sneakers as part of a coordinated look. Like the "TSUGI SHINSEI," Puma's recent sneakers have a high-tech taste, but still have a moderate low-tech feel. That's why they are easy to coordinate.

I have the impression that you prefer to wear classic sneakers such as "Suede" and "Clyde," but do you sometimes wear high-tech sneakers like these?

small treeIt is true that I prefer classic shoes, but I also wear high-tech shoes from time to time. I often wear them with old clothes or jeans.

-What kind of styling would you like to match this "TSUGI SHINSEI" with, Mr. Ogi?

small treePersonally, I think it would look great with pants with ribbed hems or short-length pants.

-How is the comfort of the shoes?

small treeThe shoes are very comfortable and easy to put on. They have a good fit, but are not too tight, so I don't feel tired even after wearing them for a long time.

-Tell us about the special model that will be released in conjunction with the launch.

small treeThe release of "TSUGI SHINSEI" will be preceded by a launch event at "KITH" in New York, followed by "Colette" in Paris, and "UNITED ARROWS & SONS" in Japan. At the same time, a special model commemorating the launch will be available exclusively at each store. It is limited to 150 pairs worldwide. Ronnie Feig of "KITH" made a direct offer to us about the launch at our store, and we gladly accepted the offer with a twofold reply.

The chic color scheme of the regular line is attractive, but this special model also has a very nice color scheme. I was surprised at how different the impression is by changing the color scheme.

-What do you think about the recent PUMA products, including "TSUGI SHINSEI"?

small treePUMA: You were quick to catch the trend of combining street, mode, and sports from New York and LA, and have been actively developing collaborations with brands such as "KITH," which symbolizes this trend. We at "United Arrows & Sons" are personally looking forward to such ambitious actions by PUMA.

I think "TSUGI SHINSEI" is a new challenge for Puma. For our generation, who know the old PUMA, this kind of design seems fresh, and I think it will be accepted by today's younger generation as well.

Motoshi "Poggy" Ogi
Born in 1976.' Joined United Arrows in 1997. After working in sales and press, opened the select store "Liquor, Women & Tears" in 2006.' He has been the director of "UNITED ARROWS & SONS" since 2010.www.unitedarrowsandsons.jp