2011 Sep 04 Onitsuka Tiger: On the Prowl Throughout the City
Japan’s oldest sneaker brand is jumping toe-first into the continuing revival of vintage shoes. For all its street cred, though, Onitsuka Tiger’s first Chinese flagship store looks more like the pristine atrium of a trendy astronaut.
The color-happy clientele are a funkier version of the all-Adidas bunch, trying on leather kicks like the classic Mexico 66 (RMB 828) or the split-toe sandals (RMB 598). The shoes are lightweight and flexible, grounding style in traditional Japanese quality. Sizes are generous for China; women’s shoes top out at 40 and men’s at 47. If these sizes still aren’t big enough, don’t worry – the fedora-sporting salespeople can easily place orders.
For diehard fans, the store also sells a selection of sportswear starring the label’s iconic tiger. Keep your eye on this brand as it snarls its way into Beijing’s closets.
Also try: Feiyue, Warrior
Must buy: Mexico Mid-Runner in teal and maroon (RMB 828)
Onitsuka Tiger
Mon-Fri 10am-10pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am-10pm. Unit 22, 5/F, Joy City, 131 Xidan Beidajie, Xicheng District (5971 6355) www.onitsukatiger.com 西城区西单北大街131号大悦城5层22
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