The Japan Shoe Manufacturers Association is a non-profit organization that works to provide and promote high-quality leather shoes that are suited to Japan's climate and the feet of Japanese people. We will explore the companies that participate in this organization, looking at their history, notable topics, and classic items.

This time, we're featuring Madras, a long-established leather shoe manufacturer with over 100 years of history since its founding. We'll introduce the company's history from its founding to the present day, as well as their classic shoe "M411," which is known for its focus on comfort.

History of Madras

Madras was founded in 1921 in what is now Mameda-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, as its predecessor, "Asia Shoe Manufacturing Co., Ltd." The first president, Takeshichi Iwata, believed that "the era of shoes, not sandals, is coming," and imported Goodyear welt shoemaking machinery from the United States, beginning mass production of men's shoes for civilian use. In 1965, Madras formed a technical partnership with the Italian shoe manufacturer "Valentino Madras" and began distributing the "Madras" brand in department stores and specialty shops throughout Japan. Currently, Madras has established itself as a long-established shoe manufacturer in Japan, and with the theme of conveying "authentic comfort," it produces "shoes that fit Japanese people" backed by traditional craftsmanship.

Topics of interest

Here's a look at some noteworthy topics from the historic Madras brand. We'll be discussing the second collaboration shoe with the anime "Lupin the Third."

Second collaboration shoes with "Lupin the Third"

Following the success of the "Lupin the Third" collaboration items released in February 2022, a second collaboration has been announced. Inspired by the shoes worn by Lupin, Jigen, Goemon, Fujiko, and Zenigata in the series, this new collection will feature lightweight and comfortable original shoes. The collaboration items are scheduled to be exhibited at "ISETAN Shoe Fair 2022," a men's shoe event to be held at Isetan Shinjuku in September.

Knowing the classics: The "M411" straight-tip shoes, perfect for business settings.

madras classic shoe "M411" is a straight-tip business shoe designed for superior cushioning and reduced strain on the feet. It uses a sleek last that allows for smooth foot entry, and the insole uses the lightweight, high-rebound material "KaRVO". In addition, the insole has deodorizing, antibacterial, and antifungal functions, and the outsole uses lightweight rubber that floats on water. The upper is made of kip leather with a hand-painted look and is finished with antique cream. It is available in three colors: black, dark brown, and light brown, and is priced at 29,700 yen (tax included). It is available at major department stores including Madras Ginza and Isetan Shinjuku.

Related Article ▶ "ISETAN Shoe Fair 2022" Announced! Popular limited-edition items and shoes that are sure to sell out will be on display. A powered-up 14 days are coming! [Updated September 14th (Wed)]

View madras product list on the Mitsukoshi Isetan online store.

Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store
Find the latest information on ISETAN MEN'S men's shoes here.

Men's shoes Instagram: @isetanmens_shoes

---

Shop online at "Mitsukoshi Isetan Remote Shopping"

Wherever you are, you'll be treated to the same level of service and hospitality as you would at a department store, for all the products you see in our shop.
Within the app, you can handle everything from customer service to payment and product pickup, no matter where you are.
You can view the items in person via chat or video call.
To use Mitsukoshi Isetan Remote Shopping, you need to log in to the dedicated app.
For further information on how to use it, please see here.

About Mitsukoshi Isetan Remote Shopping

---