Piro Racing | Exhibition at Omotesando Hills

Piro Racing

The Concept of "Chairwalker Fashion"

A Packed Show at Omotesando Hills' Space O

Recently, "Inclusion 2013" was held at Omotesando Hills' Space O. This was a fashion show as part of a movement aiming for an "inclusive society" where everyone, regardless of disability, can live vibrantly. Featured among the participating brands was a collection by "Piro Racing," spearheaded by Hirokazu Nagaya.

Text by Morito IWANAGA (OPENERS)

Fashion and Functionality Reflecting Wheelchair Users' Voices

"Piro Racing" is a chairwalker fashion brand created by Hirokazu Nagaya. Nagaya had a career as an F3 racer, but a crash at Suzuka Circuit in 2002 resulted in a C6 spinal cord injury, leading to his use of a wheelchair. He then dedicated himself to rehabilitation with the desire to return to racing, and in 2004, he made a comeback as a competitor in kart racing.

The following year, in 2005, he launched his original brand, "Piro Racing." His proposals, which balance fashion (for the wearer) and functionality (for those assisting the wearer) in chairwalker fashion (universal fashion), have garnered significant attention. At the recent "Inclusion 2013" event, he presented numerous pieces suitable for a fashion show, including dress wear and kimonos. The venue was so popular that entry was restricted, and the finale was met with thunderous applause and cheers.

Hirokazu Nagaya's mother, Emiko Nagaya, is a professional in the apparel industry, active as a mode fitter (*). Her business, "Atelier Long House," promotes "mode fitting," distinct from general clothing alterations, and applies meticulous, detailed adjustments. She also operates a reform salon at Ginza Mitsukoshi, earning high trust from the department store's clientele.

Backed by Atelier Long House, Piro Racing's items offer high design freedom and comfortable chairwalker fashion. Nagaya himself sells items developed through trial and error based on his own experiences, alongside offering alterations for ready-to-wear clothing designed with wheelchair use in mind.

* Mode Fitter: A profession established by Emiko Nagaya, who performs high-level "alterations" on ready-to-wear garments using fitting and pinwork techniques. Her expertise extends to in-store consultations, showcasing a wide range of activities.

Piro Racing
http://www.piroracing.com/jeans/index.html
http://www.rakuten.ne.jp/gold/piroracing/

A Film Documenting Hirokazu Nagaya's Challenge is Released

On December 27, 2013 (Friday), the DVD "Even So, I Continue to Chase My Dreams ~A Second Chance from Rock Bottom~" will be released, chronicling Nagaya's journey from the start of his wheelchair life to his ongoing challenge as an F1 racer. The film is filled with Nagaya's desire to convey his experiences through video and inspire viewers to have a proactive attitude towards their dreams.

DVD "Even So, I Continue to Chase My Dreams ~A Second Chance from Rock Bottom~"
Release Date | December 27 (Friday)
Price | ¥2,980
Distributor | Culture Publishers