A Fresh Design With an Incredible Fit! Descente Allterrain's New "MODULARIZE HYDRO" Is Your Go-To Summer Shoe

The apparel collection "DESCENTE ALLTERRAIN" was launched in 2012. Within this collection is the "DESCENTE ALLTERRAIN ALLTERRAIN 81" line, which develops minimalist techwear for both outdoor and urban life, leveraging the expertise cultivated over many years of developing skiwear.

The latest sneaker connected to the graphic design of "DESCENTE ALLTERRAIN ALLTERRAIN 81" is the "MODULARIZE HYDRO," the newest model in the "MODULARIZE" series. Koki Ikuno of Product Planning in the Marketing Section of DESCENTE's Footwear Marketing Department shared the details of its development process, features, design, and improvements over the previous model.

A Design Evocative of Japanimation

"The 'モジュラライズ' shoes, designed for both outdoor and urban settings, debuted in Spring/Summer 2024. The project kicked off about a year and a half ago. At that time, Descente Allterrain didn't have any sneakers; our only footwear was a snow boot that had been on the market since 2021.

As the boots gradually gained recognition, and with a strong ambition as a sports brand to venture into sneakers, we began developing the 'MODULARIZE' line."

The name "MODULARIZE" comes from the English word 'module.' Just as the name suggests, it was inspired by the concept of building upon a foundational sole by combining various materials.

The design inspiration, we're told, comes from Japanese robot anime. By incorporating the chunky, mechanical look of robots, the team wanted to express a sense of Japan and, by extension, their identity as a Japanese company.

"When we were developing 'MODULARIZE' the sneaker scene was at the peak of the Gorpcore[1] trend. Many existing sports and outdoor brands were releasing techy sneakers, and several new brands were entering the market. We definitely wanted to ride that wave."

The first model was the "MODULARIZE V1" (hereafter, V1). It was introduced with a unique design that combined a sleek upper that matched the aesthetic of "DESCENTE ALLTERRAIN ALLTERRAIN 81" with a chunky outsole reminiscent of Japanimation.

And now, about a year and a half after the first model’s release, comes the "MODULARIZE HYDRO" (hereafter, Hydro) that we're featuring today.

A Fresh Design & Improved Details

"The core features, like the sole co-developed with Vibram and the breathable waterproof construction, are largely unchanged from the previous model. The biggest difference, which is clear at a glance, is the design of the upper.

To create a stronger connection with the apparel line, we incorporated the 'ストリームライン' design, which is used on Allterrain clothing, onto the side of the upper. We also used a pattern identical to the fabric found on the apparel."

In other words, the "Hydro" is an even more fashion-forward sneaker than its predecessor. Let's dive back into its outstanding features.

"First off, the sole. It's an exclusive co-developed with Vibram, just like the previous model. The outsole features a wide surface area, providing outstanding grip.

Also, while the midsole is a single piece, it features variable density. The heel is softer, while the rest is firmer. This means it offers cushioning during heel strike when walking and delivers stability when you're stationary."

The upper's most impressive functional feature is its waterproof-breathable design, as mentioned earlier. It utilizes a bootie-structured membrane to block water from getting in, making it a sneaker that can handle sudden weather changes whether you're outdoors or in the city.

While the "Hydro" sports a completely refreshed design, its sole and upper architecture follows the blueprint of its predecessor. That said, it also boasts several functional upgrades.

"We've wrapped the entire border between the upper and sole with a TPU film. This helps prevent sand from getting in and protects the upper from rocks and other debris when you're wearing them outdoors.

We've also switched up the upper material. The previous model had a stiffer knit, but the 'Hydro' features mesh. This change has made the shoe about 10 grams lighter per foot for a size 27cm (based on the final sample figures)."

User feedback has also been incorporated into the finer details.

The two lace anchor points from the previous model have been consolidated into a single point. Any excess lace is now tucked away using an elastic band on the toe-side of the tongue.

Additionally, the protective toe pad has been changed from a two-layer structure in the previous model to a single layer. This, combined with the thin mesh upper, reportedly provides even greater toe flexibility.

Comfort You Can Feel When You Wear Them

The "Hydro" inherits its waterproof-breathable design and the sole co-developed with Vibram from the previous model, while sporting a refreshed design and updated details. We’ve gotten a pretty thorough explanation of its superb features.

So, we decided to ask about something a bit more sensory—the actual feel of wearing them.

"I think the width and thickness of the sole give this sneaker excellent stability. We also heard from the catalog photo crew that they have a \"great, broken-in feel right out of the box.\" Mountain shoes can't be too soft, or your foot will slide around inside, but if they're too stiff, they get tiring. They said the balance between softness and rigidity was just right.

We also got feedback that the \"fit is great.\" Compared to European makers, we use a wider last (foot mold), so you could say these sneakers are an easier fit for Asian users."

This "it felt amazing once I put it on" user experience is perhaps exactly what the Descente Allterrain brand is all about. The minimalist design doesn't scream about its features, but wearing them reveals an unexpected level of comfort. In other words, there's a gap, but in the best way possible.

"We equip them with all the necessary functions but avoid over-the-top design for a deliberately understated finish. Then, when you actually wear them, you can truly feel the high level of performance. I believe this is the appeal of the Descente Allterrain brand and what sets it apart from others."

So, how will Descente Allterrain's sneakers, starting with "Modularize," evolve in the future?

"We'd like to expand our lineup of sneakers with trail running and hiking capabilities. At the same time, we also want to create more premium shoes that perfectly complement the Descente Allterrain apparel line.

For 2025, the 'Modularize' lineup will feature four models: the 'V1,' the 'FK (Fusion Knit),' the 'Hydro' we've just discussed, and a mid-cut 'MID' set to release in the fall/winter. All of these will feature the same sole co-developed with Vibram.

Going forward, we're actually thinking of narrowing the models that use this sole down to about two styles. The idea isn't to expand broadly, but to focus on a smaller number of models and continue to update them each season."

With its beautiful design, excellent waterproof-breathable performance, and exceptional comfort, the "Modularize Hydro"—perfect for both the outdoors and the city—is surely the ultimate sneaker of the summer.