In the early summer of 2023, Daiki Suzuki approached me to collaborate on producing Keen WK 400 shoes. I did not know if he remembered my interest in shoe design, but I immediately started working on concept sketches.
We considered several ideas before narrowing it down to an asymmetrical arrangement of artwork featuring New York skyscrapers as a motif.
We considered several ideas before narrowing it down to an asymmetrical arrangement of artwork featuring New York skyscrapers as a motif.
The skyscrapers in New York City showcase geometric styles such as constructivism and Art Deco. The artwork incorporates elements from contemporary art, such as graffiti and digital art, and is expressed through reflective prints. It is designed to reflect the preferences of local New Yorkers who enjoy walking long distances and prefer fashion items that are both safe and eye-catching. The result is a unique shoe that blends surprise and edge through clever integration.
The shoes were nicknamed "Night Walker."
Special Thanks to Daiki Suzuki of EG, Masaki Takagi, and Scott of Keen USA.
Article on Nepenthes Official site:The shoes were nicknamed "Night Walker."
Special Thanks to Daiki Suzuki of EG, Masaki Takagi, and Scott of Keen USA.
Engineered Garments x Keen Shoes – WK400 Day & Night Walker
JBpress: (Japanse site)Brand: Nepenthes America, Engineered Garments, Keen
Artist: Manabu Gaku Inada
Year: 2024
The artwork is inspired by the everyday life observed through the city windows.
The silhouette of a skyscraper is reflected on the side of the shoe, standing out against the setting sun.
The collaboration logo is on the shoe's insole, with artwork on each side.
The reflector print stands out with the night view of New York.
Gaku pasted the printed design onto the WK400 shoes to see how the artwork would look.
We created detailed specifications, including layout and colors, to send the final artwork to Keen's production team.
