CAUSE | Designer Takahiro Masuda discusses the latest collection

CAUSE

Designer Kazuaki Masuda Discusses

CAUSE's Latest Collection, Marking 17 Years

The shoes from CAUSE offer a blend of tradition and modernity. With a concept of "real basic," the brand crafts footwear by pursuing materials and functionality, utilizing Japanese lasts. In recent years, their products have been widely distributed in select shops across Asia and Europe. Kazuaki Masuda, the designer, shared insights into CAUSE's latest collection, now in its 17th year.

Text by Kazuaki Masuda (CAUSE)

Embracing Comfort

For the Spring/Summer 2013 collection, we proposed footwear like work boots and medallion boots that could be worn more comfortably. We achieved this by lightening the soles and using sneaker materials for the insoles, ensuring that comfort was the primary consideration in their production. The theme was essentially leather boots that feel like sneakers.

Since 1996, I've visited factories in Italy and London, learning about manufacturing methods and processes from artisans. This year marks 17 years in the shoe industry. Currently, I feel the importance of producing in Japan as I continue to engage with my craft.

Collaborations with In-Demand Brands

eYe COMME des GARÇONS JUNYA WATANABE MAN × CAUSE

For this collaboration, we jointly produced monkey boots using thick canvas with "eYe COMME des GARÇONS JUNYA WATANABE MAN." Unlike leather, canvas is very difficult to shape, requiring advanced techniques.

The process of bringing an image to life is challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. It was a stimulating and enjoyable project that made me reconsider the meaning of design.

I aim to inherit essential traditional techniques by interpreting them accurately and then creating something new. Moving forward, I want to convey the wonder of "shoes" to a wider audience.

Kazuaki Masuda
Born in Fukuoka Prefecture. In 1996, he launched the shoe brand "CAUSE." Rather than merely showcasing techniques in shoemaking, he skillfully applies them to establish a new definition within the footwear field. Since then, he has produced shoes at esteemed domestic and international factories, considering high-quality materials, functional details, and Japanese lasts. He is currently active in various fields, including collaborations with numerous brands, design planning, and event production.

Inquiries about CAUSE
CAUSE (ACMG.co.ltd)
Tel. 03-6408-0658

Inquiries about eYe COMME des GARÇONS JUNYA WATANABE MAN × CAUSE
COMME des GARÇONS
Tel. 03-3486-7611