"Urgent! Boots for Snowy Days"
Morning commute trains suspended, your favorite soba shop unexpectedly closed, a crucial date suddenly canceled, and so on… This world is full of unforeseen events. However, by changing our perspective, even seemingly unreasonable situations can spark fresh ideas. Preparedness is key. This time, we’ve selected items based on the editor’s personal experiences.
Direction by SUKEZANE TomokiPhotographs by YAMAGUCHI KenichiStyling by KAWAI KohtaText by HATAKEYAMA SatokoGrooming by DAI TOKYO
Vol. 8: Boots for a Sudden Snowy Morning [Snow Boots]
Yusuke“I think everyone has experienced waking up on a winter morning, opening the curtains, and finding it snowing outside. The roads are covered in a few centimeters of snow, and if you try to go out in your usual shoes, your feet will definitely get soaked. And what if, on such a day, you have to wear your best suit? Or worse, what if you have to attend a formal party?”
The boots we’ve picked out this time are the ones you’ll want to keep in your shoe closet for those unexpected snowy encounters.
In fact, I had such an experience myself last year. I had to go to the ballroom of the Park Hyatt Tokyo in Shinjuku wearing a Tom Ford three-piece suit, but the snowfall was heavier than expected. So, I reluctantly paired my outfit with mid-length Hunter boots. At first, I thought, ‘This might not match,’ but surprisingly, as I wore them, I started to like the look.”
During heavy snow or rain, conventional, polished rules seem to break down. Combinations that you might think would ruin an outfit are suddenly acceptable. For example, even with a three-piece suit and a bow tie, the response becomes, ‘It’s snowing, so boots it is!’ I realized then that because of the bad weather, even a bold mismatch, where the footwear stands out, can be interesting.
If that’s the case, then choosing boots to prepare for such moments should also be enjoyable. This time, we’ve curated a lineup of boots that can create a witty, surprising effect by pairing them with a dressy outfit. To avoid being caught off guard on a sudden snowy morning, please choose yours now.”
AIGLE “BENYL”
Yusuke“These are the most classic, orthodox rubber boots. They are popular with women too, and I personally like this design.”
This is a heritage French rain boot manufacturer that celebrated its 160th anniversary after its founding. They still use traditional methods for handmade production, utilizing natural rubber for excellent waterproofing and durability. The ‘Banyl’ hunting boot style is characterized by its lightness and flexibility...
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TOM FORD
The upper is made of varnished leather that gains character with wear. These hiking boots feature polished brass eyelets and hooks, with meticulously calculated stitching that creates a sophisticated impression. The lightly padded collar ensures a comfortable fit, and the robust rubber sole provides excellent grip on the ground, showcasing a truly authentic construction.
Yusuke“I was surprised to find such an item from Tom Ford! This is a classic heavy-duty design, and the quality of the leather and the comfort are luxurious and superb. Just by wearing them…”
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AIGLE “BISON”
Aigle combines functionality useful for farmers and rural dwellers with the high design sensibility of a French brand.
Yusuke“I like the combination of chocolate and beige. The zigzag trim at the ankle opening is also charming!”
The ‘Bison’ ankle boot, easy to slip on and off, features an outsole with deep grooves for enhanced abrasion resistance...
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Maison Margiela
Yusuke“Regardless of whether they’re good in snow, these are boots that make you look stylish just by wearing them.”
The ‘Replica’ series is a masterpiece that can be considered Maison Margiela’s forte. Modeled after a 1965 U.S. Army combat boot, it’s designed to handle harsh road conditions. Not only is it highly functional, but its hybrid design with laces and a zipper...
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Paraboot “AVORIAZ”
Yusuke“These are the boots you’ll want to wear, thinking, ‘Finally, it’s snowing! I’ve been waiting for this!’ You’ll undoubtedly be envied as someone who is well-prepared.”
The smooth-grained leather upper is crafted using the Norwegian welt construction for stable comfort on rough terrain, all made in France. Paraboot’s masterpiece, the ‘Avoriaz,’ combines a rugged appearance with the elegance of leather. Originally designed as mountain shoes, they...
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TIMBERLAND×BARNEYS NEW YORK “6-INCH”
Timberland × Barneys New York “6-Inch”
This is a special model of Timberland’s iconic “Yellow Boot,” exclusively made for Barneys New York. The upper uses pebbled leather and features a deep brown hue, enhancing its stylish appeal. Furthermore, it retains its original features, such as a tank-patterned sole for excellent grip on rough terrain, waterproof construction with seam-sealed technology, and a padded collar for a snug fit around the ankle. It’s a pair that lets you experience its heritage.
Yusuke“When I tried them on again, I was surprised by their lightness, ankle support, and cushioning. It makes sense why these boots became popular in New York, where it snows frequently. As a Barneys exclusive color…”
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HUNTER “HUNTER PAC BOOTS”
Hunter is popular among both men and women for its functional yet fashionable colorways. The boots are made by immersing the entire boot in liquid natural rubber, a process that creates a seamless, highly waterproof construction.
The best-selling Hunter Pac Boots, renewed in Fall 2017, feature a fully waterproof rubber footbed and a water-repellent waxed rubber upper, making them suitable for inclement weather.
Yusuke“The fleece lining is also cute. The contrast between brown and navy is also very now. The fully waterproof design that prevents rain and snow from entering…”
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[Spotlight]
UGG®×3.1 Phillip Lim “PL CLASSIC SHORT DAC”
UGG®×3.1 Phillip Lim “PL Classic Short DAC”
This limited capsule collection with UGG was designed by creative director Phillip Lim, whose roots are in California, drawing from his own memories of wearing the shoes.
Yusuke“While UGG® is strongly associated with sheepskin boots, Phillip, in true New Yorker fashion, has incorporated vibrant orange accents and combined canvas with leather for contrast…”
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