Editorial | DESCENTE ‘MODULARIZE’ by eye_C

For Spring/Summer ‘25, DESCENTE releases its ‘MODULARIZE’ series, marking the first time the Japanese powerhouse has applied its FUSIONKNIT technology to footwear, reserving it for apparel until now.

Executed to the nth degree, DESCENTE had one goal in mind: to create a utilitarian shoe that can seamlessly cross outdoor and urban settings using cutting-edge proprietary technology, namely FUSIONKNIT. This birthed the frontrunner ‘Modularized FK’, an original silhouette shrouded in a FUSIONKNIT upper with a breathable interior membrane and bespoke Vibram outsole, developed specifically for this style.

Circling back on the FUSIONKNIT upper, a first for DESCENTE that sees them apply a material process ordinarily reserved for apparel to footwear, maximising its performance benefits. The ‘Modularized FK’ uses SCHEMATIC ENGINEERED KNIT on various panels across the upper, which involves changing the knitting method in specific areas to enhance the foot’s movement, further aided by PERFORMA CUT TECHNOLOGY, an exceptionally precise way of cutting the knit. To increase the shoe’s functionality, a breathable and waterproof membrane has been applied to the lining of the knitted upper, allowing water vapour to escape while preventing waterproof from passing through. Lastly, DESCENTE has worked closely with Vibram to produce a bespoke outsole and midsole, leveraging a handful of Vibram technologies such as Litebase and Sole System (midsole) and Megagrip and Traction (outsole).

descente.co.jp