Environmental friendliness and design are both important.
You knew about "Parley," which adidas teamed up with this time, didn't you, Mr. Sekikawa?
Sekigawa:About four years ago, I was asked to be a captain in the adidas running community. That was when the two companies started working together, and that's how I learned about it.
Mr. Sekikawa, please tell us about the appeal of "parlays" from your point of view.
Sekigawa:At the time, the terms "sustainable" and "upcycling" had not yet penetrated the world, but I was already working with "adidas" on running shoes made from recycled plastic bottles. It is commonplace today, but I was impressed by the speed and foresight of the company.
Q: What is your impression of "adidas" among the many sports brands out there?
Sekigawa:The brand is quick to tackle social issues and its activities are wide-ranging, and I can sense its desire to broaden its base from there. Also, the good thing about adidas is that it doesn't let its efforts end up as a transient trend. The more I learn about it, the more I like it (laughs).
How did you feel when you actually tried them on?
Sekigawa:Adidas shoes are wide and have a high instep, so they fit me comfortably. I am 170cm tall, and if the width is too narrow, I can't wear shoes unless they are 28cm. This would make the overall balance of the shoe look bad. However, I thought this was also a good point because "adidas" shoes can fit Japanese people just right.
In terms of design, I'm also happy to see that the sole is beige. It's basic, but somehow elegant.
You chose the "Stan Smith" out of a total of 12 models. Could you tell us why?
Sekigawa:I love fashion and don't want to see the industry decline, but I don't buy many clothes these days because of environmental concerns. That is why I choose shoes that can be matched with the clothes I have. In that respect, "Stan Smiths" go well with work pants, and they also go well with slacks. I thought I could use them for a long time.
When choosing clothes and shoes, the absolute requirement is still design, and I want there to be environmental considerations at the back of it. On the other hand, even if the design is good, I would never buy a brand that tests on animals. In this respect, the "Stan Smiths" design remains the same, only the materials have been changed, so I think some people don't notice the difference from the original model. I think the healthiest way is to be so excited that you are participating in sustainable activities without realizing it.
Do you see the problem of garbage when you surf?
Sekigawa:The ocean currents determine where they wash up, and this area is just like that. When a typhoon comes, trash gathers here in droves. So even after riding a really good wave, you can see the trash on the way back home. I also do beach cleanups and carry home what I can hold in one hand, but there is still more trash than I can catch up with.
I think it is difficult for young people in particular to make it their own business, because the scale is too large to think about on an individual basis.
Sekigawa:In my case, the ocean, which I love, is a big part of that problem, so it makes me think about it. So, as the number of people doing outdoor activities increases, I hope that many people will become aware of these issues.
You mentioned that you became too conscious of gluten-free and veganism, and that your physical condition deteriorated, but that also applies to sustainability, doesn't it?
Sekigawa:A friend of mine lived without buying plastic products for a week. Then, he said, he couldn't buy anything else. Even if you try to get chopsticks, they are in a plastic bag. So it is almost impossible to achieve zero consumption. That's why it's good to start with what you can afford and what is close at hand. Choosing "adidas" shoes may be a small action on a global scale, but I believe that the accumulation of such choices will lead to a better environment in the future.
SUPERSTAR PARLEY (GV7615)
The ideal environmentally friendly shoe, where design comes first" (seidai)
The "SUPERSTAR" was introduced on the hardwood courts in the 1970s as a game changer. While keeping with the design of the time, the heel strap and shoe tongue webbing are made of "Parley Ocean Plastic," a yarn made from plastic waste. The stitched three stripes add a nice accent.
NIZZA HI PARLEY (GV7617)
High-cut but easy to wear. The white and beige color scheme is also a key point.
The NIZZA HI PARLEY features an upper made of parley ocean plastic and recycled polyester. Stitching lines and geometric patterns add character to the minimalist design. The BOOST foam in the midsole delivers springy bounce.
STAN SMITH PARLEY (GV7614)
Because they are so basic, they go with any outfit. I want to use this pair for a long time to come.
adidas Originals' iconic STAN SMITH has also been updated with Parlay Ocean Plastic. The fresh and classic mood of the shoe is still the same, and if it is eco-friendly, you will feel good just by putting it on.
