In Japan, Sneaker Mania is Everywhere!
If you are reading this article now, you probably have a special interest in sneakers. There are people around the world who feel that same love of interesting sneakers. Something like ‘sneaker heads’ might be a good name for those who are fully in the throes of sneaker mania! In Japan, there are many people who enjoy sneakers in various ways. Those who keep up with the newest sneakers released every season, those who only wear Stan Smith shoes, those who will not wear socks with their sneakers, etc… In an episode of the anime Slam Dunk, protagonist Hanamichi Sakuragi got a pair of Air Jordan 6’s for just 30 yen as his first basketball shoes. The manager of the collector sports shop who handed them over was crying.
There are many specialty shops that focus on sneakers. Among them, if you are a sneaker enthusiast, one that you should check out in particular is atmos, which produces many unique, collaborative sneakers with famous brands such as NIKE and Columbia. There are many other high value, Japan-exclusive shoes from brands like Louis Vuitton and GUCCI! This time we have collected products that the manufacturer has has only released in Japan. Many of these exclusive products were produced in very limited amounts, so if you find one that you like it could be an incredible deal!
Nike Air Max 95 Premium QS ‘Mt.Fuji’
This is an exclusive pair of sneakers from the Japanese limited edition series ‘COJP’. Mt. Fuji, the famous symbol of Japan, is featured in the aimax logo on the shoe tongue. The dot on the ‘i’ in aimax is red to represent the sun over Mt. Fuji. This Japan-limited model also features a translucent logo in the middle of the sole with ‘Tokyo’ and the Japanese red sun drawn on it.
Nike Air Max 97 Premium QS Japan Limited
This Japan-exclusive pair of sneakers has a fluid design inspired by the Japanese bullet train. This is an original pair of sneakers with a camouflage pattern used by the Japanese Self-Defense Force.
Vans Japan Limited Sk8-Hi Lite V38LITE
This pair of Vans sneakers comes from the super lightweight and well-cushioned Vans Lite collection. You will enjoy their light, soft feeling from the moment you first wear them.
Keen Jasper Rocks SP Leather Sneakers
Japan-limited sneakers from Keen, an outdoor shoe brand. A high quality design inspired by climbing shoes. Their most distinctive feature is the lace system that extends all the way to the toes.
FILA x atmosPINK x AMI Boveasorus Japan Limited Collab Model
Japan-limited sneakers made as part of an AMI-produced collaboration between FILA and Boveasorus. This is a pair of women’s sneakers with a tartan checker pattern.
FILA Provenance × 24 Karats Japan Limited Collab Model
Another Japan-limited FILA collaborative series sneaker. Anna Suda and Nonoka Yamaguchi, members of the J-Pop group ‘E-girls’, were chosen to model these sneakers.
Polo Ralph Lauren Japan Limited Sneakers
These Japan-exclusive models from the American brand Polo Ralph Lauren are part of the canvas shoe series ‘Faxon Low’, which has a distinct impression and accent, and genuine leather laces. This pair can be worn neatly with any kind of pants, and are quite suitable for adult casual wear.
Converse x Ultraman Collab Sneakers
These sneakers were released in 2016 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the famous Japanese Ultraman franchise. The colors and logos featured in this pair of sneakers embody the spirit of this Japanese national hero.
Asics x Kengo Kuma Metaride AMU
A special collaborative model from running shoe brand Asics and notable Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. These running shoes carry the architectural beauty of the traditional Japanese bamboo weaving technique of ‘Yatara knitting’.
Nike Air Jordan 6 Slam Dunk Collab Model
A version of the Air Jordan 6 sneaker released as a collaboration with the famous basketball anime Slam Dunk in 2014.
Many More Sneakers Are Out There!
This top ten is only a small selection of the great variety of exclusive sneakers available in Japan. There has been a strong resurgence in the luxury sneaker market in Japan in recent years, so there will only be more styles to choose from in the future if you have the interest!
