Articles of Interest Gear: Prologue
Oct 15, 2025
Shigeru Kaneko and Yoichiro Nakamura, representatives from Beams, delve into the fascinating intersection of American Ivy and outdoor styles in Japan. They share how Beams transformed from a collegiate retailer to championing rugged outdoor wear. Shigeru reflects on his early encounters with American brands through catalogs, and they compare American functional designs to European aesthetics. The conversation also highlights the intertwined history of military utility and civilian outdoor gear, shedding light on how these influences shape both fashion and identity.
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Outdoor Meets Ivy In Japanese Style
- Heavy-duty style fused outdoor gear with Ivy League clothing in Japan during the 1970s cultural exchange.
- That blend created a distinct fashion language mixing collars and khakis with hiking boots and flannel.
Beams' Shift From Ivy To Outdoor
- Shigeru Kaneko and Yoichiro Nakamura describe Beams' evolution from student Ivy style to incorporating outdoor brands.
- Shigeru learned about Patagonia and other brands first from magazines and catalogs before they arrived in Japan.
American Function vs. European Style
- Japanese climbers now wear mainly American or European jackets, reflecting global influence on outdoor clothing.
- Shigeru notes Americans prioritize function while Europeans emphasize style in jacket design.