Well then, contrary to the other day, the weather is nice today. That said, it’s still cold, but the shop is already bustling even faster than the changing climate.
Starting with the narifuri x Lavenham collaboration that TAKA mentioned on the blog the other day, we've had other new items arrive from narifuri, so let me introduce a few.
First up is this!
narifuri x FRED PERRY / Track Jersey ¥19,000 (excl. tax)
For people around my age, is it impossible not to feel a sense of nostalgia?
The two stripes on the arms, the high ribbed collar, and the Fred Perry laurel wreath trademark on the chest. It’s a track jersey from every angle.
However, it uses a fabric that is lighter and has a better texture than you would imagine, and of course, the narifuri essence is peeking through.
There are thumbholes at the cuffs, and while small, a back pocket.
Some might think, "Would you actually use that?", but once you start using it, you'll realize how convenient it is.
The reason is the same as for cycling jersey back pockets—when you're out and about, keeping items you need to reach quickly, like your phone, keys, or a coin case, in that pocket is less stressful than putting them in other pockets, and you're less likely to forget that you have them on you.
Also, it's not exactly about the function, but I really like the white brass-plated zipper.
It adds a touch of elegance to a track jersey.
Yes, this is no ordinary track jersey.
And one more thing.
narifuri / Heather Knit Zip Hoodie ¥20,000 (excl. tax)
This is also a classic narifuri-style hoodie, featuring thumbholes, pockets in the front and back with the same design, and a snap button on the hood. The silhouette is clean, making it versatile enough to wear as an outer layer or as an inner layer.
However, the main point of this hoodie is the material.
The double-faced fabric, woven with a blend of cotton and linen, is light and feels great against the skin, and the heathered texture is very sophisticated. While it’s not made of a technical material, it absorbs sweat and dries faster than standard sweatshirt fabric.
Both are finished in a way that is exactly what you'd expect from narifuri.
Oh, and I have to introduce this as well.
We have received a special pair of pants limited to 100 units.
narifuri / M-65 Hunter Cropped Pants ¥22,000 (excl. tax)
These are 3/4 length pants based on the US military's M-65 trousers.
Well, setting aside the question of what exactly makes them "M-65," they are a very well-crafted pair of pants.
The camouflage pattern, based on those used in old hunting wear, has a certain softness that makes these camo pants feel like a catchy, spring-ready item, rather than looking too rugged.
Though they have a heavy-duty, substantial feel, they are made of highly stretchy material, and features like the darts at the knees make pedaling comfortable. The lining is made of mesh to prevent stuffiness.
My favorite details that draw me to these pants are the piping on the waist and the flat cords used for the hem and zipper pull. Oh, and I have to take my hat off to the attention to detail like the desert camo lining.
Looking at these and other items, I feel they have transcended the "cycling gear" category and have become an outstanding presence as a casual wear brand in their own right.
Now, let's leave it to Ken-Polo-san to wrap things up!
Over to you!