Hiroki Nakamura has developed a cult following by fusing a rugged variation of Americana with traditional Japanese craftsmanship, and the new visvim Tabi Sashiko-Folk is a stellar example of those dueling sensibilities. The mid-top silhouette is modeled after tabi, traditional ankle-high split-toe Japanese socks that date back to the 15th century. visvim keeps the split-toe construction, but the sneaker is mounted on a modern bulky midsole and a rubber crepe outsole, with vegetable-tanned cow leather at the lining for a premium look and feel. Traditional Sashiko stitching on the suede upper rounds out the details.

Tags: /