We’re firm believers that inspiration is best drawn from all corners of the globe.

 

Whether that be in music, design, or fashion, there’s an eclectic collection of experiences building a kaleidoscope of aesthetic creation that would otherwise go unappreciated should we only focus on our own geographic or even stylistic backyard.

 

So, let’s take a trip to Tokyo to check in with our newly discovered friends at FOOTINDUSTRY JAPAN.

 

This company is not your average footwear shop.

 

With more similarities to Amsterdam’s Filling Pieces than an adidas or Nike, FOOTINDUSTRY is a high-tech operation that adheres to a simple set of values that we can’t help but vibe with.

 

In their words, “The brand adheres to the design concept of ‘taking the essence, abandoning the dross and putting people first.”

 

For those of you who did not know (myself included), dross is something regarded as worthless; rubbish.

 

In result, their design concept combines upscale material, technology, and a distinctive form heavily influenced by Tokyo’s unique brand of urban chaos (and order for that matter).

 

The ALERNATIVE TI is an interesting design concept, and as functional as it is visually striking.

 

A Cordura fabric upper adorns a chunky futuristic midsole that could be just at home on the International Space Station as it is on the streets of your local metropolis.

 

Nuanced detailing in the sole pops upon closer observation. See the flared fenders on the heel and front quarter of the shoe. Each of the three available colorways are likewise flavored with a simple stripe detail that runs flush across the entirety of the upper.

 

Perhaps the most striking detail of these kicks is the dorsal zipper that serves as a utilitarian and creatively different closure to the sneaker.

 

In case you may not be sold on that zipper piece, Yoon Ahn of the popular Ambush fashion line and storied Dior Mens creative recently released her own collaboration with Nike an embellished Nike Air model that featured, you guessed it, a zipper running from the top of your foot all the way up the ankle.

 

Similarly, Ambush is based out of Tokyo.

 

I see a pattern here. But I digress.

 

The FOOTINDUSTRY JAPAN design model is something I have never encountered. A futuristic-dystopian take on footwear that adheres to minimalism and functionality.

 

By focusing on only including features on their footwear that are needed and doing away with any that are not (the dross), the collection feels equally at home on the runway or paired with denim and the favorite streetwise fit in your wardrobe.

 

Due to its wild styling and barebones nature, the ALTERNATIVE TI is our favorite of the available models.

 

Be sure to give this shop a look, but don’t be surprised if you have a near impossible time finding them.

 

Since 2015, FOOTINDUSTRY has been researching and developing footwear for tomorrow, so that you can look dumb fresh today.

 

For that reason, this sneaker demands your attention.