Hiroki Nakamura Discusses the Philosophy of visvim and Modernizing Moccasins

visvim founder Hiroki Nakamura recently discussed the philosophy of his brand through moccasins. Although the FBT is one of the most iconic items from the folk wear label, over the years Nakamura has offered other iterations of the moccasin such as the HURON MESH FOLK, VOYAGEUR MOC-FOLK and MALISEET-FOLK. The various styles display the concept behind visvim. Drawing inspiration from traditional sources in workwear and folk wear with a nod to Native American designs, the Japanese label takes something considered dated and modernizes it for everyday life. Check out the photos of shoes that inspired Hiroki Nakamura above and read the full piece here.

“Traditional moccasins are very special, but it is quite obvious that the environment and lifestyle of a modern man differs from that of Native Americans. With that in mind, I wanted to make a sturdy moccasin suitable for daily use on pavement, which uses a durable polyurethane rubber to counter hydrolysis. The sole features a natural bend and the upper, a single leather piece. The moccasin stitch is done completely by hand, with the use of a wooden last. By not finishing the vamp with a machine stitch, subtle variations can be found as the hand stitch finish yields an uneven tension, which gives the “face” of each shoe a unique expression or appearance. Every year I design a new model with new production details or methods I am experimenting with. This next version (of the moccasin) will be first time I have used a vegetable-tanned suede for the upper.”