Though some what lost to passage of time, Kadoya was once the lone biker wear brand in Japan. Akin to Lewis Leathers in the UK, and Schott in US, they were conceived as utility brands — filing a hole in the market for high-quality biker wear. From the 30s through the 80s, Kadoya outfitted many of Japan’s top motorcycle racers, and even made battle suits, (reinforced rider jackets and pants not unlike those Balenciaga has released under Demna Gvasalia) used by Japanese police in riots. Unlike their American and British counterparts, Kadoya’s pivot towards more mass produced clothing in the 1990s was largely a misfire, and while they operate several stores throughout Japan, the unceasing tide of fashion has largely left them in the dust.

They left us with an assortment of fascinating work from decades past, these street-ready constructionist of their lightweight racing boots. Their bold colors and block design speak to the aesthetic trends of Japan in the era, and in retrospect also illuminate the influence racing gear had on a variety of brands throughout Harajuku’s fashion peak of the early 2000s. In a strange, Margiela-esque touch, these shoes also display an advertising slogan across the shaft.

Condition: 8/10. Some scuffing and fading consistent with age.

Tagged size: No tagged size. Fit a US Men’s 7/Women’s 9.5