Today’s rain seems to have brought an end to one of our annual spring traditions, the cherry blossom party. I’m sure many of you participated in and enjoyed such festivities over this past weekend.
As for us, we spent that weekend taking part in our own annual tradition: an event called Off the Grid, a gathering of outdoor brands where we participated as exhibitors.
The event featured many brands that are familiar to us here at CIRCLES, such as RAWLOW MOUNTAIN WORKS, Yamatomichi, MINIMALIGHT, and WELLDONE, whom we travel with from Nagoya every year. The other exhibitors were also brands that craft their products with genuine dedication to the fields they love. It’s an event where attendees can talk directly to these masters of play and purchase their items—a truly exciting experience for us each year, even as exhibitors ourselves.
This was the fourth year for the event, and the number of visitors has increased each time; this year, even more people made their way to the venue. We could certainly feel the crowd from where we were, but seeing the number of attendees reach 3,600 on the first day really drove home just how incredible it was.
It wasn’t just about the increase in numbers, however; many of the visitors were people who actively enjoy outdoor activities, with a focus on mountain fields. They took the time to carefully examine how these various items could be used and how they would be helpful for their own pursuits.
The highly acclaimed Bedrock Sandals
In the midst of all that, BEDROCK SANDALS were, as expected, a huge hit at our booth. As the number of dedicated fans steadily grows, it seems many people came to check them out after seeing them in action or hearing about their quality from others.
Many people tried them on, and they all seemed to share the same praise for the fit. At the same time, many were concerned about pain between the toes or were undecided between the Cairn Pro and the Cairn 3D Pro, so I’d like to touch on those points here.
The strap system that creates an outstanding fit
First, regarding the fit: while this system is the same for both the Cairn Pro and Cairn 3D Pro, the three straps centered around an O-ring securely wrap around the instep. This minimizes the stress on the area between your toes, even when descending slopes and dealing with forward-leaning pressure. Another feature of this system is that you can find the optimal placement where it causes the least amount of stress while wearing them.
To put them on, first secure them so your heel doesn’t hang off, then pull and tighten the strap on the outside of the instep; this will hold your foot firmly in place. Start by wearing them in this position, but if you experience pain between your toes or where the O-ring makes contact, try changing the hook position at the end of the strap on the inner side of the instep.
This will change the angle of the toe post and the contact point of the O-ring. It may not happen instantly, but by making small adjustments, you should be able to find the perfect fit for you.
Choose the cushioning of the Cairn 3D Pro or the barefoot feel of the Cairn Pro?
As for choosing between the 3D and non-3D versions, it really comes down to preference. The 3D version offers superior cushioning, which provides great support for your feet when walking long distances. At the event, some who already owned a pair of Cairns tried the 3D and remarked on how incredibly comfortable they were. Still, for those who prefer a more natural, barefoot-like sensation, I recommend the Cairn Pro.
Both models share excellent grip and durability
What both models have in common is the grip, hardness, and durability of the soles used. While they aren't especially thick, the Megagrip sole provides outstanding grip in any situation and minimizes discomfort from rocks, pebbles, or twigs on the trail. Thanks to this, you can confidently step just about anywhere.
While it might be a bit tough on a rainy, cold day like today, a mild day like the one we had last weekend is the perfect situation to wear your BEDROCK SANDALS. As it continues to warm up, there will surely be more opportunities to put them to use.
BEDROCK SANDALS Product List
I, too, am planning to take my Cairn Pros and head out to Mt. Ryugadake, one of the seven mountains of Suzuka. I’ll let you know once the date is set, so please get in touch if you’re interested in joining! Of course, I’ll be biking to the trailhead.
