From the headwaters of the Tone River in Minakami, Masakazu Fukuyama has built Toned Trout around the relationship between mountain stream fishing, style, and everyday life. In this interview he shares his perspective on creativity, environment, and finding clarity through simplicity.

To Shimpei Hara, designer of 4c studios, climbing isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. His brand sits at the intersection of city and crag, crafting apparel for climbers who move fluidly between daily life and vertical challenges. Through a made-to-order system, 4c studios weaves individual stories into every piece.

A fourth-generation sake shop successor and former outdoor engineer, Masaki Miyazaki of MIYAGEN Trail Engineering, fuses tradition with innovation to create meticulously crafted adventure gear.

Masaaki Mita moves fluidly between roles—photographer, writer, editor, brand founder, father—and in 2024, he found himself busy in every way. In this conversation, we talk about learning to embrace the adventure, his favorite work with Yamatomichi, and how The Empty Bottlers emerged from a desire to simply have fun.

Suzette Lee is a creative director, photographer, and multidisciplinary artist whose work captures the quiet beauty of nature. Drawing from personal experience and family life, she creates stories that feel both intimate and universal. In this conversation, she reflects on her process and what inspires her to capture what’s real and meaningful.

Self-taught illustrator, art director, sartorial talent, musical meanderer, and friend of Sanpo Studios – Austin’s work as an illustrator has him collaborating with brands such as Hidden NY, Tarvas, Cafe Mountain, and Peace Cabin – He shares with us his influences, creative process, and some advice for young creatives.

During the pandemic, we discovered Toru Hirama and PLATFORM’s subtly iconic work—simple yet precise designs that redefine carry with technical craftsmanship.

We learned of Kiyotaka Shinoki’s vintage outdoor gear collection in 2021 through Gear Patrol’s feature on Monroe Garden Outdoor. By 2022, Kiyo had moved from his Brooklyn basement and welcomed us to his home for coffee, a chat, and a look through his archive.

Peace Cabin, founded in 2020 by Angela and Daniel in Pennsylvania, crafts eco-friendly, stylish cushions that blend comfort with sustainability, inspired by the outdoors.