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 focusing on the long-established leather shoe manufacturer, Regal Corporation. We'll introduce the company's history from its founding to the present day, notable topics, and classic shoes.

History of Legal

Regal Corporation was founded in 1902 in Ginza as "Nihon Seika Co., Ltd." through the merger of the shoemaking divisions of four companies that were involved in shoemaking and leather manufacturing at the time (Okura Gumi Leather Manufacturing Co., Ltd., Sakura Gumi Co., Ltd., Fukushima Gomei Kaisha, and Tokyo Seihi Goshi Kaisha). In 1961, aiming to refresh its image as a company of sophisticated and fashionable men's shoes, Regal entered into a technology transfer agreement with Brown Shoe Company (now Clares Co., Ltd.) of the United States and began developing the "Regal" brand in Japan. In 1990, after acquiring the trademark rights to the REGAL brand from Brown Shoe Company, the company changed its name to "Regal Corporation." In 2022, the company celebrated its 120th anniversary and continues to operate shoemaking businesses centered on manufacturing methods such as Goodyear welt and McKay construction, as well as wholesale and retail businesses.

Topics of interest

This article introduces some noteworthy topics from the historic REGAL brand. We will explain the "Master Regal" line, the top-of-the-line series launched in 2021, and the "New Classic" collection, which updates traditional designs with modern technology.

"Master Regal" is the top-of-the-line series, using carefully selected materials.

REGAL launched its top-of-the-line "Master Regal" in the fall of 2021. The line features leather shoes crafted with carefully selected materials, including high-quality calf leather from Dupuy, France, for the uppers, and each pair is meticulously finished by skilled artisans. Three styles are available: straight tip, wingtip, and saddle shoe, and all models come with a free shoe care service of up to 10 times over two years. Each style is available in two colors: black and brown (saddle shoes are available in black and dark brown).

The "New Classic" collection blends traditional design with modern technology.

In April 2022, they launched the "New Classic" collection, which updates traditional designs with modern technology and materials. Based on the theme of "the value of what remains unchanged and the value of what changes," they offer classic leather shoes manufactured using vintage shoe lasts that had been preserved. The collection is divided into three categories: "City," "Country," and "Town," with a total of six styles to match each scene.

Knowing the classics: The straight-tip "315R" is a favorite among businessmen.

REGAL 's classic shoe, the "315R," is a favorite among businessmen. With its classic straight-tip design, considered the most basic style of men's footwear, it's versatile enough for business settings as well as formal occasions like weddings and funerals. The heel area, prone to strong impacts, features a thick heel sponge for enhanced comfort. The heel is set slightly higher than typical leather shoes at approximately 35mm, giving it an elegant look. Available in two colors: brown and black.

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View the REGAL product list on the Mitsukoshi Isetan online store.

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