Multi-hyphenate Kunichi Nomura wears more hats than the average person. Editor, writer, designer, radio DJ and “Tripster”, which is also the eponymous name of his interior design company. Prior, some of Tripster’s projects include a Bruce Weber photography exhibition, event space for Uniqlo and Nike, including Beams Japan’s catalogue.

Although they’ve been designing spaces, with Vans they’re designing footwear to walk these spaces so et voilà—the Tripster x Vans Authentic. It’s same same but different, a familiar aesthetic yet retrofitted with the latest enhancements in the form of the Comfycush midsoles.

The propositions include three colorways in Black, Gray, and Red. The upper blends nylon canvas and suede with the former the base layer at the rear, the latter the toebox at the fore. All of which sit atop a sail midsole and the hallmark waffle-patterned, vulcanized rubber outsole.

Some of its newer additions include the TPU mould at the heel counter, the exposed tongue, and the dual-branded graphic on the presiding tag. The laces pay homage to its pedigree with a custom design featuring a measuring tape motif imprinted over. The ID’s name once more makes an appearance as a final flourish.

The three-piece Tripster x Vans Comfycush Authentic will be sold exclusively in Japan via Wacko Maria, Paradise Tokyo, and Billy’s stores. Prepare to shed JPY12,100 (~US$90) for a pair come 25 March if you’re planning to get a pair.

In other sneaker-related news, check out Reebok’s “420” collection. An obvious homage to an emerging  culture.