Have you ever experienced the unpleasant feeling of getting your shoes soaked in a sudden downpour or torrential rain? We have good news for you. Currently, Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building B1F - Men's Shoes offers an unprecedentedly wide selection of all-weather business shoes that can be used toughly in both rain and shine. Ahead of the start of the full-fledged rainy season, four shoe experts from Isetan Men's have picked out the most functional business shoes you need right now, following up on their article, "Business Shoes Enter the Warring States Period of the '¥19,000' Price Range! Which are the Best Value Shoes!? ". After reading this, you'll definitely be stronger on rainy days!

From left to right: Tabata, Sales Manager for Men's Shoes; Fukuda, Buyer for Men's Shoes; Tsukahara, Stylist; and Miyashita, Assistant Buyer.

I want shoes that are rainproof but also look stylish on sunny days.

Almost everyone has experienced slipping on train station stairs, manholes, or parking lot ramps on a rainy day. Lately, it's become common for customers to visit the same floor the day after it rains, saying they want "rain-resistant shoes" because water seeps into the leather soles of their shoes. "Previously, many people would change into rubber shoes for their commute on rainy days, but now, shoes that are 'rain-resistant and look good on sunny days' are popular," says sales manager Tomoyasu Tabata. Many customers also check for non-slip soles beforehand before making a purchase.

Buyer Takashi Fukuda added, "The keyword for today's customers is 'don't hold back.' When it comes to shoes, they don't want them to hurt, they don't want to have to be careful with them, and they don't want them to be a hassle to maintain, but if they want something, many will buy it without holding back. Manufacturers are competing on functionality, and high-performance 'all-in-one' shoes that allow you to work without worrying about the rain are appearing one after another, so I hope that people will pick up a pair this season."


In this episode, buyer Fukuda discusses the " SCOTCH GRAIN , which uses functional, high-quality water-repellent leather without compromising breathability," sales manager Tabata talks about the " RUNWALK , which boasts cushioning comparable to sneakers and is equipped with GORE-TEX® fabric for superior waterproofing and breathability," assistant buyer Miyashita discusses the " madras which is equipped with GORE-TEX® SURROUND® and can be worn comfortably on both rainy and sunny days," and stylist Tsukahara discusses the features and appeal of " ANTONIO RUFO, a leading brand of Italian elegance that exhibits a two-layer water-repellent structure."

Sports manufacturers are focusing on "business shoes that you can run in."

People who recommend RUNWALK

Tomoyasu Tabata

Sales Manager for Men's Shoes, B1F Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building . In his 13th year with the company, he has been in charge of men's shoes for 12 of those years. He previously worked as a buyer for local stores and private brands before assuming his current position. His current goal is to create a shopping environment that both customers and stylists can truly enjoy. His motto is "In life, there's no use crying over spilled milk." He lives each day to the fullest and enjoys life to the fullest.

Asics, a leading sports manufacturer, offers RUNWALK shoes that are head and shoulders above the rest in terms of functionality and comfort. In recent years, they've also focused on improving the fashion aspect, adjusting the design and last, resulting in a remarkably sharper look. RUNWALK shoes: ¥28,080 each.
 

Tabata: The reason I recommend RUNWALK is that it's the only business shoe among these four brands made by the sports manufacturer Asics, and it makes the most of their strengths. They utilize the technological development capabilities accumulated in sports to scientifically measure foot shapes and reflect them in the last (shoe mold). The interior design is also very scientific, and the built-in GEL (low-rebound material) provides a sneaker-like comfort that protects the feet of businessmen who walk for long periods of time.
Fukuda 's previous models had a more comfort-sneaker feel, but these have a much more stylish finish, making them suitable for business wear.
Tabata Design's shoes are on par with those from specialized manufacturers, and they've even incorporated features that make the rubber sole not visible from the side, resulting in a well-finished shoe.
Miyashita : It has a very sleek design, and the lightweight nature is also a plus. How about the functionality?
Tabata: When I first joined the company, rain boots competed solely on their "water-repellent" function, but now many manufacturers use Gore-Tex®, and RUNWALK also features Gore-Tex® fabric, which has excellent waterproof and breathable properties. It keeps your feet comfortable and dry inside the shoe, even on rainy days.


The gel inside the rubber cup in the heel of the Tsukahara shoe is popular with older people because it "softens the shock when you put your foot down." Also, since it uses the OrthoLite insole that is used in running shoes, it is recommended for job-hunting students and people in their 20s who love sneakers.
Miyashita : You can feel the excellent cushioning throughout the entire sole of your foot, so you can wear them just like sneakers.
One of the characteristics of RUNWALK is that many customers are repeat buyers because they love the comfortable, almost sneaker-like feel. People with a background in sports clubs often specifically request them.
The fact that they use Fukuda Gore-Tex® and offer products starting from 20,000 yen is quite reasonable, and the good cost performance is one of the reasons for RUNWALK 's popularity.
If Mr. Miyashita Tabata were to buy just one pair of shoes, which model would he choose?


If I were to buy just one pair of shoes, I'd go for the " square -toe U-moc toe." As a sales manager, I do a lot of walking, so I'm constantly reminded of how important the comfort of shoes really is. RUNWALK shoes soften the impact of landing and efficiently convert kicking power into walking energy with their high rebound properties, so I'd really like you to try them on.

This season's new release features breathability all the way to the sole.

People who recommend madras

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).

madras , renowned for its exquisite finish and lasts, has succeeded in maintaining that beauty even while using Gore-Tex. This demonstrates the reliable technical expertise of this historic brand. madras shoes: Left: ¥34,560, Center & Right: ¥32,400

Miyashita : I recommend madras ' GORE-TEX® SURROOM® footwear. It's a well-balanced shoe, including the finish, and uses a last (shoe mold) that fits Japanese feet, a hallmark of Japanese brands. It's very popular among businessmen.
When customers who frequently wear high- end imported shoes come into our store saying, "I don't want to wear leather soles on rainy days," we recommend madras , and they are convinced and end up buying it. It's a long-established brand that truly impresses shoe enthusiasts.
Miyashita 's new shoes for this season feature a GORE-TEX® upper and a breathable surround sole. madras is the only brand that uses a surround sole.


Tabata madras has a long history of making shoes using Gore-Tex®, and their high level of technical skill is proven worldwide.
Fukuda Gore-Tex® is a non-stretchable film, making it very difficult to mold integrally with the leather upper. In the past, many shoes made with it had a bulky appearance, but now, thanks to advancements in technology, they can be finished with a sleek form.
The Tsukahara sole allows more moisture to escape, keeping your feet dry and comfortable at all times. Beyond its high functionality, the look and feel of the leather, especially considering the price of around 30,000 yen, is truly impressive.
This brand is skilled at finishing leather with a textured, uneven feel, and their willingness to experiment with sole designs is also a testament to their technical prowess.
Miyashita: One important point to note is that, in order to allow these shoes to perform at their best, please avoid using waterproofing spray.


Because the Fukuda upper is made of leather and Gore-Tex®, applying waterproof spray will interfere with the leather's natural ability to breathe. You can use regular cream on the leather.
If Tabata and Miyashita were to buy just one pair of shoes, which model would they choose?
If you're looking for a pair of shoes you can wear even on rainy days, Miyashita recommends "straight-tip" shoes. The classic choice is always a safe bet.

A masterpiece of Italian elegance, featuring a two-layer water-repellent structure.

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."

By using highly elastic OutDry fabric, these shoes achieve both water resistance and a stylish, elegant shape. The excellent cushioning and beautiful heel design are also reasons why this brand has so many fans. Antonio Rufo Shoes, ¥24,840 each.

Tsukahara: My recommendation, as I did last time, is ANTONIO RUFO. These business shoes feature a two-layer water-repellent function called "OutDry," developed by an Italian manufacturer, and their maintenance-free nature is also a major selling point.
Miyashita: There are hardly any Italian shoes that can be worn on rainy days, so Antonio Rufo is valuable because its long toe shape and OutDry functionality are a perfect match.


Tsukahara: Furthermore, they have excellent cushioning and high heels, so I would recommend them as what you might call "flirty shoes."
The Reverso sole, with its seamless construction on the upper, is also beautifully finished.
Fukuda OutDry is characterized by its high elasticity of the inner film, making it easy to fit and mold. It's also convenient that you can simply wipe it dry if it gets wet.
Tsukahara: When I'm serving customers, I'm surprised by how many say, "Even on rainy days, I only want to wear slip-ons or loafers."
Fukuda: On rainy days, many people don't want to touch wet shoes. They just take them off at the entrance and quickly wipe them down. That's why slip-on shoes are so popular.


Tabata slip-ons and loafers are easy to put on and take off, and they're also trending as a style choice this season.
If Miyashita and Tsukahara were to buy just one pair of shoes, which model would they choose?
Tsukahara: I would definitely choose slip-ons. They use a last with a small heel that prevents them from slipping off, and I like the textured, uneven feel of the leather. They also match well with Italian classic style.

For all-weather business shoes, the Mitsukoshi Isetan exclusive version of "Shine or Rain" is the best!

People who recommend SCOTCH GRAIN

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.

These are the only shoes in this collection to be made using the Goodyear welt construction method. They offer excellent comfort for long walks, and the matte, understated leather, combined with the round-toe, British-style last, creates the look of a truly classic shoe. SCOTCH GRAIN shoes: ¥38,880 each

Fukuda: The shoe I confidently recommend is the Mitsukoshi Isetan exclusive model of SCOTCH GRAIN 's popular "Shine or Rain" line. The upper leather is treated with a water-repellent finish from the tanning stage, ensuring its functionality is maintained almost indefinitely. Please avoid using waterproof spray on these shoes. Regular leather cream is all that's needed for maintenance.
It's amazing how this genuine Tabata water-repellent leather retains the original texture of the leather.
One of the key features of this special edition is the inclusion of "Hydrostopper," a non-slip sole that makes them suitable even on snowy days.


Miyashita is perfect for business trips, whether you're going north or south, in summer or winter.
Fukuda: What I like about these shoes is that they're functional despite being made with the Goodyear welt construction method, which is considered a high-quality shoe. There's actually a lot of demand for "Goodyear welted shoes that you can wear even on rainy days."


Tabata : Yes, I'm one of those people. Goodyear welted shoes are stiff, but I like the feeling of my feet being protected, and how the footbed softens and becomes more comfortable as I wear them in. That's why, even on rainy days, I find the thinness and durability of the soles of shoes made with McKay or cement construction insufficient.
Fukuda: While its robustness in a good way is a key point, the three-dimensional form that is characteristic of SCOTCH GRAIN is also something that cannot be overlooked.
Miyashita: I also like the British look, so I like how the matte leather texture gives it a solid, classic feel.
Tsukahara: There are no other Goodyear welted shoes that are suitable for rainy days, so I recommend them to salespeople and others who are looking for "shoes that don't tire their feet."


If Miyashita and Fukuda were to buy just one pair of shoes, which model would they choose?
If I were to buy just one pair of shoes, I'd go with loafers . They go well with casual outfits like the one I'm wearing today, and they're a very versatile shoe—you can't go wrong with them.

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)