From the men's shoes section on the first basement floor Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , which always stocks over 70 types of leather shoes that can be purchased for 20,000 yen, four shoe experts from Isetan Men's have picked out their "favorite brands." Fukuda, the men's shoe buyer; Miyashita, the assistant buyer; Tsukahara, a stylist and certified shoe counselor; and Tashiro, who has been involved with men's shoes for a long time and is currently the editor-in-chief of "Isetan Men's Net," discuss the features and appeal of their respective "business shoes that can be purchased for 19,000 yen (excluding tax)."

From left to right: Miyashita, Assistant Buyer in charge of men's shoes; Fukuda, Buyer in charge of men's shoes; Tsukahara, Stylist; and Tashiro, Editor-in-Chief of Isetan Men's Net.

I'm going to buy leather shoes with a budget of 20,000 yen!

The " 19,000 yen leather shoes" we're introducing today were jointly developed by each brand and Isetan Men's, resulting in a collaborative manufacturing process. Each brand's unique personality and strengths emerged from this collaboration, and the four presenters will each share their favorite brands.

Within Miyashita's budget of 20,000 yen, when you gather together and look at these four particularly popular brands of men's shoes on the first basement floor Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , you can really see the differences.
While 19,000 yen is certainly not a cheap price in the Tashiro leather shoe market, it reflects our long-held desire to provide the best leather shoes at this price point. We hope you will read this article and find a brand that fits your style and preferences.
When customers try them on at the Tsukahara store, we get a lot of comments like, "They're really well made." As people in our 20s, we can't really afford to spend a lot of money on shoes yet, so we're happy that we can buy high-performance leather shoes like these for 20,000 yen.
This is good news for businessmen of Miyashita and Tsukahara's generation, isn't it?
Fukuda: It would be a great reward for a buyer if this helps people fall in love with leather shoes. I hope that people will not be swayed solely by the price, but will experience the comfort and quality of these shoes as an "entry-level brand for leather shoes," and that this will lead them to take the next step.


What is Miyashita Fukuda's favorite bra brand?
Fukuda: Of these four brands, JARamis is my favorite, as it's the only one that carries on the legacy of British shoemaking.
I'm looking forward to seeing Tashiro Fukuda's interpretation of Jay Eramis. I'll be in charge of CERVINO, a Mitsukoshi Isetan original brand with a purple shoebox as its trademark. Which brand will Miyashita choose?
I've decided on Miyashita E SPOIR . I usually wear casual jackets and cargo pants, so sometimes I feel like trying out Italian brands that are sold on the 5th floor = Trend Selection. SPOIR is perfect for that kind of style.
As the youngest member of the team , I recommend ANTONIO RUFO . When customers try on this brand, they are always impressed. I'll explain why later.


Fukuda's being so secretive (lol).
Tsukahara: No, no, please listen to what people on the ground have to say!
Tashiro: I agree that Tsukahara is the one who sees the customers' feet the most, so I think his opinion is very convincing. Let's start with Miyashita's Espoir!

1. ESPOIR/Espoir

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• People who recommend Espoir
  Sota Miyashita

  
  Assistant buyer for men's shoes on the first basement floor of Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . A young professional with five years of experience specializing in men's shoes, having handled all areas from high-end to casual. He is enthusiastic about creating a fun floor that satisfies intellectual curiosity, stimulates the senses, and uplifts the spirits. His motto is, "Fortune comes to those who smile." He is a graduate of a prestigious high school baseball team and has participated in the Koshien tournament three times in total (spring and summer).

Miyashita : The Espoir shoes I chose are made in Spain, a country with a long history of shoemaking, and they focus on "how much craftsmanship can be achieved with European-made shoes for 19,000 yen ."
This is the only one of the four Tashiro brands that is made in Europe.
Miyashita's shoes feature a Goodyear welt construction, a leather sole, and a distinctive leather finish, making them truly unique at this price point.


The upper material and overall feel, which are unique to Fukuda Imports, make each pair look like it's worth more than 20,000 yen.
From stylist Tsukahara 's perspective, despite its sleek design, Espoir shoes are wide, so you'll find them comfortable to wear once you try them on.
The lightness that makes them perfect for slipping on like Fukuda shoes, and the leather that breaks in easily, are also unique to Espoir.
Tashiro: "These are beautifully colored shoes that make people think, 'He's wearing nice shoes.'" They have an atmosphere that suits everything from classic Italian clothing to comfortable casual suits.
Tsukahara's charm lies in the facial expression that appeals to businessmen in their 30s.


The most distinctive feature of Espoir shoes is the combination of Miyashita 's Italian classic last (shoe mold) and leather sole, along with the European-inspired leather.
At the Tsukahara store, shoes made with leather that has an uneven texture are also popular.
Miyashita 's serious expression, rather than a flirtatious one, suits a dressy wardrobe, so please give it a try.

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  These shoes boast high-spec features that are hard to believe for just 19,000 yen , including Spanish manufacturing, a Goodyear welt construction, and a leather sole. The exquisite look of Italian classic style is only possible because they are made in Europe.
  
  Espoir shoes, 20,900 yen each . View product.

  Value for money ★★★★★
  Design ★★★☆☆
  Material ★★★★☆
  Finish ★★★★☆
  Specifications ★★★★★

2. CERVINO/Servino

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• 
  

  People who recommend Cerbino
  Keita Tashiro

  
  Editor-in-Chief of "Isetan Men's Net." For nine years since joining the company, he has been in charge of men's shoes, gaining experience in sales and purchasing. He is well-versed in a wide range of shoes, from bespoke shoes to sneakers. His motto is, "Just like cooking, you should choose your shoes according to your mood."

Leather shoes that are easy for sneaker-wearers to wear.

At Tashiro , it's my turn next. The Celvino shoes are domestically produced and use a last (shoe mold) that fits the foot shape of Japanese people. The manufacturing method is a lightweight, flexible, and durable cement construction.
The Fukuda cement manufacturing method is constantly improving, and these shoes are well-made enough to be worn as an entry-level pair of leather shoes. Because there are no seams, they're fine even on rainy days.
Tashiro Celvino's work is not only exceptionally well-finished and stylish, but also appealing because of its designs that reflect current trends.
Miyashita : Indeed, the finishing touches are very refined. The side laces and original brogue detailing, for example, demonstrate how the combination of design and finishing is what defines the brand's identity.

Fukuda: "I'd recommend these to people who want to wear new designs all the time."
Tsukahara: That's right. We have a lot of brightly colored shoes. We have salespeople who wear them every day, and many customers who buy them on a whim, like "I want to wear them to a glamorous party."
Fukuda Cervino is a brand with many fans, and a notable characteristic is that many customers are wondering, "What should I buy next from Cervino?"
Miyashita: I think this 19,000 yen line is perfect for customers who want to wear trendy shoes and are looking for a stylish design.


Tashiro : Selvino shoes often reflect individuality and the times, but a major feature is their excellent cushioning and comfort. I hope that young people who are "wearing leather shoes for the first time after sneakers" will also pay attention to them.
Tsukahara , being in his 20s, is used to the comfort of sneakers, so I'd like him to start with leather shoes like Cervino leather.

• 

  
  Each season, new designs that follow the latest trends are introduced. The brand offers a wide range of unique designs and colors that are rarely seen in other brands.
  
  Cervino shoes, 20,900 yen each . View product.

  Value for money ★★★★★
  Design ★★★★☆
  Material ★★☆☆☆
  Finishing ★★★★★
  Unique ★★★★★

3. ANTONIO RUFO

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  People who recommend Antonio Rufo
  Takuya Tsukahara

  
  Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building B1F = Men's shoe stylist. Since joining the company, he has been a leading young stylist (salesperson) with many regular customers thanks to his honest and courteous customer service. Last year, he also obtained a shoe counselor qualification. His motto is, "Make a choice you won't regret even if you die today." He says, "My goal is to provide customer service that makes customers remember today's shopping as a fun experience."

At Tsukahara , I recommend Antonio Rufo.
What kind of feedback do you often receive from customers you serve at the store , Fukuda ?
If you try on Antonio Rufo shoes at the Tsukahara store, you'll find they're comfortable and you'll love them. Shoes with a long, slender toe last (shoe mold) often cause your toes to rub against the front, but Antonio Rufo shoes have a smaller waist and heel, while the forefoot is wider, so even if you find the right size at the heel, your toes are less likely to rub against the front.


Tashiro : I see. Looking inside the shoes, the fit seems good. Because they have a cup insole, they not only have excellent cushioning, but they also lift the arch of the foot nicely.
The greatest appeal of Antonio Rufo shoes, designed by Fukuda , lies in their practicality, appealing to both those seeking individuality in their footwear and shoe enthusiasts. They are well-balanced and comfortable to wear.
Tsukahara: Many of our customers say, "Is this really only 19,000 yen ?"

The synergistic effect of Miyashita heels and insoles creates the illusion of increased height when wearing them, which is another hidden reason for their popularity.
Tsukahara: That's right! The insoles are soft and thick, so I think they have the best cushioning among the four brands I'm introducing today.
Miyashita's shoes, with their comfortable, almost secret-shoe-like fit, are popular in stores, right?
Tsukahara: You'll really understand once you try them on. I can confidently recommend Antonio Rufo shoes for their stable fit, excellent comfort, and stylish look!

• 

  
  These shoes offer a cushioned comfort unlike any other brand. The thick cushioning also gives the illusion of longer legs and increased height. Despite their appearance, they are wide enough to slip on easily.
  
  Antonio Rufo shoes, 20,520 yen each. View product.

  Value for money ★★★★★
  Design ★★★★☆
  Material ★★★☆☆
  Finish ★★★★☆
  Cushioning ★★★★★

4. JARamis

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  People who recommend JA Ramisu
  Takashi Fukuda

  
  Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , B1F = Men's shoe buyer. 12 years of experience as a men's shoe buyer. 6th year as a men's shoe buyer in total. Creator of popular events such as Kick the City and JAPAN Shoe Expo. A man who loves shoes and whose life is sustained by shoes. His motto is "Comfort is Luxury." He says that what matters is whether it feels comfortable to him.

A genuine brand that draws from traditional British origins.

In Tashiro , the closing remarks were given by Mr. Fukuda, who explained JA Ramis.
Fukuda JA Ramis inherits the DNA of the Spanish brand Melmin, possesses British shoemaking know-how, and manufactures its shoes in an Indian factory that previously produced uppers for high-end brands.
Miyashita : India was a British colony, so that history is still preserved, isn't it?
Fukuda India was able to offer this price because of its low tariffs. The shoes are made using the McKay method and an original last that has been improved for Japanese people who often complain about their little finger rubbing against the shoe. What is remarkable is the natural texture of the leather, which is made from European raw hides that have been vegetable-tanned and aniline-finished, and the quality of the leather is outstanding compared to others.

Tashiro: Indeed, JA Ramis' leather is exceptionally superb.
I think Fukuda 's overall balance is excellent.
Tashiro Lining is the only brand among these four that uses cowhide leather, which provides excellent form retention. These shoes are perfect for those who want shoes that will last a long time and who want to enjoy the aging process.
Miyashita JA Ramis is, quite simply, "a British experience for 19,000 yen ."


Tsukahara , being in his 20s, doesn't often have the luxury of investing in shoes, but only JA Ramis offers such high-quality, authentic British-style shoes for 19,000 yen , and they exude a sense of luxury.
Fukuda: First of all, the appearance is outstanding. The employees at the Indian factory, from the president down, are highly motivated, and I can see the quality improving year after year. We will continue to evolve, including the shoemaking process, so please look forward to it.
Miyashita Shoe Production has really improved its shoemaking skills in Asia, a third country in Japan, and its greatest appeal is that you can wear traditional designs without any hesitation.
Fukuda: The 19,000 yen line we introduced today consists of leather shoes made using the McKay or cement construction methods. However, we believe that the real enjoyment of shoes lies in starting from here and then moving on to the Goodyear welt construction method, or learning to enjoy shoe care. We hope you will continue to enjoy the charm of shoes for many years to come.

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  JA Ramis is the only brand with a truly traditional look. Its classic feel evokes high-end British shoes. The ability to use premium European leather is a benefit of production in a third country.
  
  JA Ramis Shoes: 20,520 yen each. View product.

  Value for money ★★★★★
  Design ★★★☆☆
  Material ★★★★★
  Finish ★★★☆☆
  Classic ★★★★★

Photo: Natsuko Okada
Text: Makoto Kajii

*All prices include tax.

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Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , B1F = Men's Shoes
03-3352-1111 (main representative)
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