The Story of UNTRACK – Vol.1
The Story of UNTRACK – Vol.1: Interview with the UNTRACK Director
“Find Your Trail” – The Origins and Future of UNTRACK, as Told by the Brand Director
Urban and nature. Work and play. For those who move freely between these worlds, the lifestyle brand UNTRACK offers thoughtfully designed bags and apparel. Born in response to the increasingly diverse ways people work and live today, UNTRACK was created for those who value their own personal style. Here, we share the origins, philosophy, and vision of the brand.
The Meaning Behind the Brand Name
UNTRACK is a bag and apparel brand centered on the theme “URBAN × OUTDOOR”, connecting urban life with nature and work with leisure. The name derives from the adjective “Untracked”, referring to untrodden, unexplored territory. The tagline, “Find Your Trail,” embodies the hope that individuals will carve their own path, discovering new directions in life with their unique style.
Crossing the Boundary Between Work and Leisure
The creation of UNTRACK was inspired by the significant lifestyle changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. As traditional office attire like suits and jackets gave way to more casual and flexible business styles, we recognized a need to offer a fresh perspective that our existing brands could not fully address.
At the same time, many customers expressed uncertainty when choosing business bags — existing options often didn’t quite fit their needs. UNTRACK was therefore born to provide items that blend seamlessly with city life while allowing individuality to shine, suitable for both work and leisure.
Crafting Products That Blend Aesthetics and Functionality
At UNTRACK, our design philosophy balances emotional value with functional value. We draw inspiration from vintage items and classic models that have been cherished over time. These timeless pieces possess a beauty and appeal that remains fresh even today. By incorporating modern functionality into these designs, we create products that offer new value for contemporary lifestyles.
Personally, I have always loved vintage items, spending years exploring second-hand stores across Japan and engaging in conversations with shop owners and staff. These encounters and stories form the foundation of UNTRACK’s product creation. Reinterpreting the inherent functionality and aesthetic beauty of these items in a modern context is at the heart of my creative passion.
Additionally, my desire to own something unique drives my attention to detail, from material selection to hardware choices. UNTRACK is crafted for those who want to honor their personal style — and I hope that people who share this vision will embrace our brand.
Looking Ahead
Since its launch in Fall/Winter 2023, UNTRACK has primarily been available online. Looking forward, we plan to establish a flagship store where customers can experience the full lineup of bags and apparel. This space will allow us to convey the brand’s lifestyle vision more tangibly, offering a complete experience of UNTRACK’s world.
UNTRACK aims to be a partner for everyone who wants to find their own path and define their style — supporting those who aspire to explore, create, and live life on their own terms.