This early issue provides a glimpse into outdoor fashion in Japan around 2009. It covers everything from headwear and layering concepts to the latest rainproof gear and footwear, showcasing the classic origins of these styles. This issue serves as a timestamp of outdoor style development before it began influencing major fashion brands and, in return, became inspired by them (for example, and Wander).
We particularly enjoy the tour of various shops throughout Tokyo, where suppliers of outdoor gear present their stores and personal outfits. Having had the opportunity to visit a few of these locations before they closed, I highly recommend checking out Bamboo Shoots and Function Junction if you find yourself in Japan anytime soon.
About GO OUT Magazine
"GO OUT" is a popular Japanese magazine focusing on outdoor activities and fashion. It covers various topics, including gear reviews, travel destinations, outdoor cooking, and interviews with notable figures in the outdoor community. The magazine strongly emphasizes stylish outdoor apparel and accessories, blending functionality with fashion. Readers can find detailed reviews of outdoor gear like tents, backpacks, and hiking boots, along with inspiration and tips for various travel destinations. Additionally, "Go Out" features articles on outdoor festivals, events, and the social aspects of outdoor activities. Known for its high-quality photography and modern design, the magazine appeals to those who love nature and aesthetic living.
“I was in my late 20s, I did not know what to wear. I used to wear brands like Bathing ape or other skater brands back then. I thought it was too childish to wear a big logo on clothes, but suits or any "collection brands" are not my options. I was interested in outdoor brands that were already worn by people on the street. As I attended festivals and talked to designers and stylists at the time, they would wear those outdoor branded clothes as fashion. It was not for functional purposes.
There were some special magazines for outdoor activities that provided us with some pieces of information about those outdoor brands, but mostly they were for functions and materials and so on. It was way far from fashion. I could not find how to wear brands like The North Face or Patagonia and how to fit it all stylishly. I could not find any of the magazines covering this gear from a fashion perspective. I thought it would be interesting to introduce the pioneers that I mentioned as designers and stylists wearing outdoor clothes as fashion.”
Techunter: “GO OUT”, interview with Mitsuru Takeshita [Source]
