Think techwear clothing is dowdy? Japanese techwear brands will change your mind.
Techwear, short for “technical wear”, is known for prioritising functionality and comfort over fashion. Think bulky hiking jackets, baggy cargo pants, rugged high-performing sneakers, oversized backpacks and so on. These pieces are usually reinforced with special fabrics — such as Cordura or GORE-TEX — that are durable enough to withstand extreme conditions. Most come with a minimal design or feature a camouflage print from hunting brands like Realtree.
But techwear has been shedding its utilitarian reputation. Thanks to newer, sleeker designs, it’s now seen as trendy and hip especially among the streetstyle community. Pieces from Japanese techwear brands are particularly good at mastering the balance between form and function. So if you want to refresh your wardrobe, here are some of the best labels you should know.
Goldwin’s designs are a masterclass when it comes to elevating the signature simplicity of techwear. Instead of usual bulky cuts, this Japanese techwear brand uses new technology such as the KODENSHI®Down which has densely packed fibres that work to keep things toasty without the need for multiple layers. This allows for sleeker, understated looks that double as fashion statements.
