Yesterday’s typhoon certainly packed quite a punch, didn't it?
When a typhoon approaches, I'm reminded of the Tokai heavy rains, but honestly, there's also a part of me that gets a little excited.
On days like those, it’s time for these shoes to make an appearance.
This is my LAKE sandal-style clipless shoe, which I've been wearing for eight years now. Yesterday, I headed out to work feeling spirited, thinking, "If it's a rainy day, and a typhoon is approaching, I've got to wear these," only to end up with soaking wet feet during my commute. They’ve been great for summer touring and events like RIDEALIVE. I’ve been thinking for a few years that it might be time to replace them, but they just keep on working. Still, I’ve had my eye on a pair to buy next.
That pair is the Commuter 4 by KEEN. Actually, they were discontinued last year, and I’m regretting that I didn’t buy them while I had the chance.
But you know, Circles still has the very last pair in stock.
Color : Gargoyle
Size : 37.5 / W’s 7
Price : ¥13,000_(tax excluded)
Guided by the mission of protecting your toes, the PU sole wraps all the way around to the front. They offer the advantages of sandals—like being able to step into water and quick-drying capabilities. Even though they are clipless shoes, they feature an outsole designed with the excellent grip you’d expect from KEEN shoes that are long-loved in outdoor fields, ensuring they hold up well even in muddy conditions.
The remaining pair is a 37.5; unfortunately, there’s no way I could fit into this size.
It’s a Cinderella-sized shoe—is there anyone who wants them?
Now, if heading out with exposed feet to run through the rain is your "offensive" strategy, you might ask: "What if I want a shoe that shuts out the water and keeps my feet completely dry?" Well, here is your answer.
Size : 8, 10 inch
Price : ¥22,000_(tax excluded)
Purchase here
The STORM 415 PRO BOOT is a leather work boot based on Chrome's classic 415 Work Boots, now featuring CHROME STORM technology, which provides complete waterproofing and excellent breathability. The high-quality upper material is durable and water-resistant, making them perfect not just for daily commutes to work or school, but also for those who enjoy touring. They include a reflector on the heel, a high-traction rubber sole, and are constructed using a vulcanized process to bond the upper to the sole, minimizing the risk of deformation or the soles peeling off.
And one more thing as a bonus.
Actually, it would be a sin to call this a mere "bonus"—this is another top-tier shoe perfectly suited for protecting your feet.
Color : Black x Flame, Grey x Cyan
Size : 8, 10 inch
SpecialPrice : ¥28,000_(tax excluded)
Purchase here
This TOR ULTRA HI WP is a sneaker that uses e-VENT, a waterproof and breathable material, making it a great choice for bad weather. While you can't use them with clipless pedals, I highly recommend them for those using flat pedals.
Originally conceived for outdoor use like trekking in bad weather or the cold winter season, these are versatile enough to be used in various ways for everyday life.
For those of you who want to keep moving regardless of the weather, these shoes offer different approaches—offensive or defensive—but each one will serve you well in a variety of situations.
Please consider adding them to your collection.