With the diversification of lifestyles and the casualization of clothing, the role expected of shoes has changed dramatically in recent years. Amidst this, REGAL , which has led the Japanese business shoe market, is also making a major shift in response to the rising demand for sneakers in recent years. REGAL 's product development team, sales staff, and the assistant buyer for men's shoes Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building have come together to explore the "future of business shoes in the post-leather shoe era" from the perspectives of these four parties. This article introduces the new way of choosing business shoes, as discussed in the latest issue of " THE GENTLEMEN CLOTHING & ACCESSORY SPRING & SUMMER 2026 ".

What kind of business shoes are needed in the post-leather-shoes era?

Ikeuchi: In recent years, with the increasing casualization of work attire, the range of business shoes has also expanded considerably. Now that business shoes are no longer limited to just leather shoes, how does REGAL view this change?

Takatama: Up until now, when we thought of business shoes, we always assumed leather shoes were the standard. However, nowadays, while people still want a polished look, they also seem to be looking for comfort and casualness that suits their work style and attire. With the diversification of work styles, with teleworking becoming more common and bicycle commuting increasing, the needs for business shoes are also changing, aren't they? So, as REGAL , we are rethinking what kind of shoe would be "just right" for work.

Tomono: At our stores, we're seeing an increasing number of customers looking for sneakers that can be worn both on and off duty, rather than leather shoes for work. I think this is a clear shift in lifestyle and a change in footwear needs. This trend has become even more pronounced since the COVID-19 pandemic.


Ikeuchi: Indeed, nowadays, it's not uncommon to see people working five days a week in easy-to-wear suits and sneakers, and it seems that footwear changes naturally along with changes in clothing.

Hirayama: We're seeing fewer and fewer customers in the city wearing suits and ties, unlike in the old days. That's why, from our planning side, we're thinking about business sneakers not as a "substitute" for leather shoes, but as a new staple. So this season, we've put together a range of sneakers, from court sneakers that are an entry point for those who usually wear leather shoes, to running sneakers that are easy for active sneaker wearers to get into. We've focused on creating a lineup that's easy to choose from depending on your outfit and purpose.


Ikeuchi: Having multiple "entrances" is very helpful for a department store's sales floor.

Takayama: For the older generation who have always worn sharp suits, the casualization of their attire is a gradual process. First they go without a tie, then they change their inner wear, then their pants become a little more casual, and so on.

Tomono: When you dress down your outfit like that, many people say it's difficult to suddenly switch to casual shoes. So, I get the impression that many people start by trying out simple, easy-to-wear court sneakers that don't make a strong statement as shoes.

Hirayama: On the other hand, running sneakers go well with functional material sets and light styles, so they are easy for people who usually wear sporty sneakers to get used to. When encouraging people to try switching from leather shoes to business attire, we wanted to make sure that everyone could find a pair they could wear to work, even if their starting point was different.


Ikeuchi: Certainly, for people in their 30s like me, many may be more familiar with functional material suits than tailored suits. For customers who regularly wear such suits, many may feel that sporty and functional footwear is easier to match.

Takayama: While we continue to offer classic leather shoes, we will also propose business sneakers as a "new standard" to match the changing ways of working and dressing. Responding to these changes in the times, we want to see how far we can expand the options as a "total footwear brand." I believe that is REGAL 's challenge going forward.

A guide to choosing business sneakers by style, illustrated with diagrams!

This guide illustrates how to choose business sneakers in the post-leather-shoes era, categorized by sneaker style. Those who are accustomed to formal attire and leather shoes should start with the simple "court sneaker" type shown at the top of the diagram. Conversely, those who usually wear easy suits or sporty sneakers should opt for the "sporty sneaker" type shown at the bottom of the diagram, as it's easier to incorporate into a business setting.

Court Sneakers
"The design is understated and easy for those who prefer leather shoes to incorporate into their wardrobe," (Takayama).

These minimalist sneakers feature GORE-TEX SURROUND® for comfortable wear even in bad weather. The one-tone color scheme, with the sole and upper in the same color, makes them easy to incorporate into your business wardrobe, even for those wearing sneakers for the first time.

Dress Court Sneakers
"For those who find regular court sneakers a little lacking," (Tomono)

This deerskin model features EXTRAALIGHT® in the outsole and Ortholite® in the insole. The luxurious look of the deerskin upper elevates the sneaker style.

Casual Court Sneakers
"The moderate design makes it a good match for business casual attire." (Ikeuchi)

These shoes, which follow the design of German trainer shoes, have more presence than court sneakers and go well with jackets and trousers. The functionality of using GORE-TEX SURROUND® is also appealing.

Custom Slip-on
"Perfect for sophisticated footwear that exudes a sense of luxury and style," (Mr. Takatama)

Featuring a deerskin upper, these sneakers are characterized by their blend of luxury and the casualness of a slip-on design. The slip-on design without laces gives them a more stylish look than the Dress Curt Sneakers (image CD).

Leather Run-Sneakers
"Its versatility, from work to golf, is also a major appeal," (Hirayama).

These all-weather sneakers combine the functionality of GORE-TEX SURROUND®, which protects your feet from the rain while providing comfortable wear, with golf-specific specifications. Perfect for those who head to the driving range after work.

Leather Run-Slip-on
"It features a function that allows you to put your feet in without using your hands," (Hirayama)

These running sneakers are perfect for both casual and formal occasions, featuring a design that allows you to slip your foot in without using your hands, simply by following the heel guide. They offer a relaxed fit and a stylish, modern look in one shoe.

Sporty Sneakers
"For a casual style when going out in denim," (Hirayama)

A new addition to the "AFG" collection, which embodies the brand's tagline "Always Feel Good." These trekking shoe-style sneakers feature a quicklace system. With their chic color scheme, they also match well with casual suits.

“THE GENTLEMEN CLOTHING & ACCESSORY SPRING & SUMMER 2026” published!

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