A Loafer for the Connoisseur: The New Rolling Dub Trio In'ei Loafer and the Legendary Munson Last

Summary

• The new Rolling Dub Trio In'ei loafer is a sophisticated and comfortable shoe inspired by Japanese aesthetic principles.
• It features a high-quality black Dutch box calf leather and is built on an improved Munson last, known for its anatomical shape and superior comfort.
• The brand is also famous for its flagship boots, its "Boots on Sincerity" slogan, and for working closely with local tanneries to create custom leathers.

Rolling Dub Trio, a Japanese footwear brand renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and rugged yet refined boot designs, has captivated enthusiasts worldwide. While celebrated for its flagship models like the Coupen and Roots work boots, the brand continues to expand its repertoire, introducing the new In'ei Loafer. This loafer is not just another shoe; it's a testament to the brand's philosophy of combining classic aesthetics with exceptional comfort and quality.

Inspired by Junichiro Tanizaki's essay, "In Praise of Shadows," the In'ei loafer embodies a "subtractive" design, focusing on the beauty found in simplicity and deep black. It’s a coin loafer with a simple, yet elegant and moderately voluminous shape, perfect for a refined look. The shoes are built using a Goodyear Welt construction, a mark of quality that allows for easy resoling. The upper is made from a premium black Dutch box calf leather, a material celebrated for its fine grain, "captivating transparency," and ability to develop a beautiful patina over time.

A key to the loafer's superior comfort is the use of an improved Munson last. The Munson last is a historically significant anatomical shoe form developed by Dr. Edward Munson for the U.S. Army in 1912. Designed after extensive studies of soldiers' feet, its primary goal was to create a last that was both comfortable and functional for long-term wear. Its defining features include a roomy, asymmetrical toe box that mirrors the natural shape of the foot, preventing common issues like bunions and hammer toes. The Munson last, therefore, prioritizes foot health and comfort over a purely aesthetic, pointed shape, making it an ideal choice for a shoe intended for regular wear.

Rolling Dub Trio's success stems from its ability to meld vintage Americana with a uniquely Japanese sensibility, and the In'ei loafer is no exception. It's a shoe for the modern enthusiast who appreciates history and quality in equal measure.

3 Fun Facts About Rolling Dub Trio:

1. "Boots on Sincerity": This is the brand's official slogan, often found on their boot boxes. It reflects a core philosophy that every pair is built with integrity and an unwavering commitment to the wearer.
2. The "Coupen" Story: The brand's signature low work boot, the Coupen, was named for its sprawling shape, which its designers felt resembled a "koppepan," a popular type of soft Japanese bread roll.
3. Local Expertise: Rolling Dub Trio is known for its strong relationships with local Japanese tanneries, developing custom leathers and finishes that are unique to their brand and contribute to the exceptional patina their footwear is known for.