The brand name White Flags is derived from the "white flag," a symbol of peace, and the shoe brand White Flags uses the names of past Nobel Peace Prize laureates and pacifists, such as Henri Dunant, Ludwig Quade, Ralph Bunch, and Paul Rubens, as names for its models. Designer Tatsuya Okonogi says, "By giving names to the models, customers and buyers seem to feel a sense of attachment to them."

"Henri" 62,640 yen

A completely original design model made using the "vulcanized manufacturing method" has arrived.

This spring/summer collection is themed "White & Black." Primarily focusing on white, the brand has embraced a completely original "vulcanized construction" method for the first time. The vulcanized high-top model "Charles" features a minimalist design that eliminates shoelaces and eyelets, and incorporates pyramid studs on the rubber foxing tape. The sole also features an original hexagon pattern.

Additionally, the vulcanized low-cut model "Joseph" shares the same design and specifications as "Charles," but the hand-woven leather on the sides gives it a supple and elegant look while providing a soft, flexible, and comfortable fit.

The vulcanization process involves bonding the rubber sole to the shoe upper and then applying heat and pressure in a vat. This method creates a strong bond between the sole and upper, making the sole less likely to peel off and the shoe resistant to deformation. The result is a simple yet durable sneaker that conforms well to the foot. However, because it relies heavily on manual labor, production efficiency is low, and unfortunately, few factories still use this method.

This season, along with models made using the vulcanized manufacturing method, we've also revamped the brand logo. Please pay attention to that aspect at this pop-up store.

Left: The brand's first high-top model using the "vulcanized construction" method, "Charles," ¥45,360. Right: The low-cut model using the vulcanized construction method, "Joseph," ¥51,840.

I want to take on challenges in design.

What's the fun part about designing shoes? First of all, it's that you can come up with ideas in a smaller space than clothing. With clothes, you can make them bigger or smaller, layer them, and think about how to wear them, but compared to that, shoes have constraints. Within those constraints, you have to combine designs and materials, mix and match materials and colors, think about the placement of the shoelace holes, use Velcro, or use zippers to hone your originality. I personally approach shoe design with the same feeling as building a plastic model kit.

Last year, White Flags released the "Pire" model in collaboration with the brand JEANPAULKNOTT, and this season, they've collaborated with the Parisian design unit AHONEN&LAMBERG to create digital leopard graphics for the "Charles" and "Joseph" models. Be sure to check out these models, which combine White Flags' signature free-spirited approach with new creativity.


Photo: SUZUKI Shimpei

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