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These Unusual New Hikers Out of Japan Are Surprisingly Technical

Snow Peak’s collab with New Balance is sure to turn heads, but the shoes can tackle trails, too.

snow peak × tokyo design studio new balance capsule collection
Snow Peak

As evidenced by such ballyhooed releases as the Nike ACG React Terra Gobe and Adidas Terrex Free Hiker, trail footwear with urban curb appeal is very much en vogue. Now entering the fray: the shining star of Snow Peak’s collab with New Balance’s Tokyo Design Studio, the Extreme Spec R_C4 Mid. Much like the aforementioned shoes, this sneaker/boot hybrid is optimized for outdoor use.

It features a Gore-Tex lining to keep your feet warm and dry as temps drop, a Cordura ripstop upper and a traction-packed Vibram outsole. There’s also a Fidlock buckle, an immensely satisfying clasp we fell in love with while mountain bike testing Mission Workshop’s Axis modular hip pack.

But let’s be honest: you don’t have to love — or even like — hiking, to lace up these fresh kicks. That’s because the bold styling will hold up from the sidewalks of New York to the streets of Tokyo. The shoes drop as part of a larger mountain-ready apparel and footwear collection — for roughly $324 — on October 5th.

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