FASHION /
MEN
July 24, 2015
“FOOTSTOCK ORIGINALS” Arrives at Isetan Shinjuku Men's Building | ISETAN MEN’S
ISETAN MEN’S | Isetan
A Notable Label Proposing a New Standard in Men's Footwear
“FOOTSTOCK ORIGINALS” Arrives at Isetan Shinjuku Men’s Building
“Crafted with meticulously selected materials, lasts, and soles, using the world-renowned skills of Japanese artisans.” This is the concept behind the men's shoe label “FOOTSTOCK ORIGINALS,” helmed by shoe designer Toshiyuki Takegahara. A dedicated corner will launch in the men's shoe section on the basement floor of Isetan Shinjuku Men’s Building starting Wednesday, February 18th.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
A Notable Japanese Brand Debuted Last Autumn
“FOOTSTOCK ORIGINALS” incorporates elements of military footwear, such as robustness and durability, into a foundation of standard designs.
Toshiyuki Takegahara, who has cultivated extensive expertise in shoemaking through various brands like “AUTHENTIC SHOE & Co.” and “foot the coacher,” pours his skills and experience into proposing a new standard for men's footwear.
Six Models Appearing in the Pop-Up Shop
The “PUNCHED TOECAP SHOES” are finished with an old American aesthetic, reminiscent of stylish gentlemen working in Manhattan around the 1920s. The voluminous toe shape pairs well with the army last, making them suitable for both casual and dress occasions. The medallion on the toe cap not only serves as a striking design element but also helps to minimize the appearance of scratches.
The inspiration for the “SERVICEMAN SHOES” comes from practical footwear originally issued for military dress uniforms, combining functionality with formality. Details such as the balance of the eyelets and the cut of the opening, designed to beautifully frame the ankle when worn barefoot, emphasize the elegance of the wearer's posture.
The “STRAIGHT TIP SHOES” are a model of straight tip shoes, long favored for formal attire. The last is based on American military shoes issued in the 1930s and 40s, modified with a contemporary touch while retaining a moderate volume. Furthermore, while providing ample space in the toe for free movement of the toes, the last is shaped to mirror the foot's bones and muscles. This three-dimensional design achieves an exceptional fit, akin to bespoke shoes.
The “STRAIGHT TIP SHOES (PYTHON)” are a plain-toe shoe crafted from python leather. Pythons, with their diamond-shaped scales, are also known as diamond pythons. This particular python is rare, making each pair of shoes unique. The glossy finish on the toe cap is also a distinctive feature.
The “SEMI BROGUE SHOES” feature a medallion on the toe cap and broguing balanced across the shoe. The use of a slim British last creates a sharp impression. By omitting the pinking (decorative serrations) often seen on brogues, a clean aesthetic is achieved. To prevent undue stress when the foot flexes, the straight line across the toe is finished with stitching and perforations rather than a cut edge.
The “FRENCH STYLE BALMORAL” is a model designed for a wide range of occasions, from formal to casual, by minimizing excessive ornamentation. It employs a European last sculpted to the foot's musculature, with a lengthened nose to create a sleek silhouette. Asymmetrical three-dimensional cutting on the inner and outer patterns enhances fit and creates dynamic lines.
Official Website Renewed on February 18th
FOOTSTOCK ORIGINALS utilizes both a “Leather Sole” made from carefully selected steerhide and the brand's signature original “Imperial Sole.” Developed in-house with inspiration drawn from military boots, this sole offers excellent water drainage, ensuring comfortable wear even on rainy days.
On Wednesday, February 18th, the official FOOTSTOCK ORIGINALS website will be renewed, with new making-of videos also set to be uploaded.


