2024.05.07

The Classic Shoes of the '90s Updated & Reissued! What Future Does 'AIRWALK CLASSICS' Envision?

'AIRWALK' was established in 1986 in California to meet the needs of skateboarding and BMX. In the 1990s, classic shoes like 'ONE' and 'ENIGMA' were born.

Recently, as 'AIRWALK CLASSICS, the brand has reissued 'OUTLAND D-BOOTS' and also ventured into after-skate shoes.

This time, we asked Tsutomu Takahashi, head of the footwear division at DOSHISHA CORPORATION and CEO of SEESWAY LLC, about the history of the brand, the background to handling the classics line, and his recommended models.

Reissuing Engaging Archives with 'AIRWALK CLASSICS'

'AIRWALK' started in 1986 when skateboarder Lee Smith introduced skateboarding shoes. Its innovative design, excellent durability, and unmatched functionality quickly created a nationwide boom within a year.

Subsequently, with the rise of action sports, not only has 'AIRWALK' produced footwear for skateboarding, BMX, snowboarding, and mountain biking, but also casual wear, snow wear, and accessories, continuing to enchant youth culture with its unique culture.

Did you know that since 2017, "AIRWALK" has been focusing on reissuing archive models under "AIRWALK CLASSICS"?

For the 2024 AW collection, Takahashi from SEESWAY LLC, who is directing "AIRWALK CLASSICS," shared his insights.

"AIRWALK CLASSICS," started in 2017 to introduce 'AIRWALK' archives

"Previously, 'AIRWALK CLASSICS' was developed based on custom orders with the 'classic' title, but from the Autumn/Winter 2024, the direction is being handled under Doshisha's footwear division's policy to enhance in-line options.

"'AIRWALK' has a solid archive of models, and I strongly feel that these should be known to the younger generation. That's why we've decided to relaunch 'Airwalk Classics,' enriching the in-line collection and adding some buzz with collaboration models," he explained.

Fashion enthusiasts up to their 40s may have worn 'AIRWALK' shoes, but for many young people today, the brand image may be somewhat vague. Thus, we've begun this initiative to reintroduce the brand's appeal by showcasing signature models and expanding through collaborations and special editions.

The 2024 AW Lineup Features Classic Masterpieces

What concept is 'AIRWALK CLASSICS' unfolding? Takahashi continues.

"Essentially, this brand's 90s archives contain many attractive models. Certainly, many lesser-known models didn't see much limelight, so we plan to present these classics and hidden gems with modern twists to match today's taste," he noted.

Targeting both those curious about the '90s culture and those who cherished 'AIRWALK' in the '90s and want to rediscover its qualities, the 2024 AW collection includes four items. The first is an updated version of the skate shoe that was also the signature model of skater Jason Lee, called 'JL95'.

The JL95 model, recommended by Takahashi, offers a soft fit for daily wear and skateboarding with current technologies. Priced at 17,600 yen (tax included)

Then there is "ENIGMA," a classic shoe from the brand which debuted in 1990 alongside "Prototype" and "Velocity."

The innovatively designed and stylish "ENIGMA" ignited the street fashion scene and is highly sought after by collectors. Known as the 'King of Skate Shoes'. Priced at 18,700 yen (tax included)

Designed for after-skate purposes, the "OUTLAND D-BOOTS" feature a rounded toe and a voluminous fat silhouette.

The outsole of the 'Outland D-Boots' uses hydrolysis-resistant expanded rubber for cushioning and a non-slip sole. Priced at 19,800 yen (tax included)

The lineup also includes 'EVS Boots', which feature a shark sole (zigzag wave-shaped sole) that became popular, now in winter versions with mutton and boa.

Maintaining the original shark sole, the upper part of the 'EVS Boots' is made of suede, while the lining features natural mutton and boa for a soft fit and enhanced warmth. Priced at 20,900 yen (tax included)

For those around the age of 40 who know 'AIRWALK', the lineup is a collection of masterpieces reminiscent of the 1990s. This design will also seem quite fresh to generations interested in 90s culture, and it is sure to resonate with them. The rollout is scheduled to begin sequentially from August and September.