Flower Mountain: Outdoor trainers with Japanese design – new at SportFits

Japanese design meets mountain sports: Flower Mountain makes trainers for the outdoors and everyday wear. They are now available at SportFits, from the classic Yamano 3 to waterproof models.

The story begins with a friendship. Keisuke Ota from Tokyo and Yang Chao from Beijing share a love of nature, city life and shoes. They founded the Flower Mountain brand in 2015.

The idea came to them during a climb of Mount Fuji. According to their own account, the two suddenly found themselves standing in front of a field of flowering dandelions after a rain shower. That is how the name and logo came about.

Flower Mountain combines elements of trekking with trainer design: robust materials and a grippy lugged outsole. This makes the shoes just as suited to woodland paths as they are to the commute. The colour palette is inspired by nature, with earthy tones paired with bold accents, and many models combine suede with technical fabric.

Many models feature an insole made from natural cork, which, according to the manufacturer, has antibacterial properties, while a lightweight rubber outsole provides traction on the outside.

The best-known model is the Yamano 3. It is considered the brand's signature model, with overlapping layers and curved stitching. Those looking for a sportier option should take a look at the Yamabushi, whose name refers to Japanese mountain ascetics and which resembles a trail-running shoe. More understated is the Fami, with a generous fit, available from us as the ankle-high Fami Mid and as a Slipper for women.

There are dedicated models for wet days. According to the brand, the Back Country Waterproof is inspired by climbing shoes and has waterproof fabric with taped seams. It is also available as a higher mid-cut. The Iwano 2 keeps water out with a membrane and has a Vibram sole with plenty of grip. Its name translates roughly as “rocky terrain”.

Discover all waterproof Flower Mountain shoes ↗

Flower Mountain now has an Italian partner behind it: the brand belongs to the Falc Group, a footwear manufacturer from Civitanova Marche on the Adriatic coast, which also owns the children's footwear brand Naturino.

To mark its tenth anniversary, Flower Mountain opened its first shop in Milan in September 2025. Collaborations have included one with British jacket manufacturer Barbour.

Flower Mountain is a good choice if you are looking for trainers with an outdoor look that stand out in everyday life without being loud. The waterproof models also perform well in the rain and on woodland paths.

However, most models are not designed for proper mountain tours with a pack. A classic hiking shoe offers more support and stability for that. Suede also needs some care to keep it looking good for longer.

Flower Mountain recommends removing dirt from suede with a soft brush. Wipe fabric and smooth leather with a damp cloth, lukewarm water and mild soap. Wet shoes are best dried at room temperature, stuffed with paper, and never directly next to a heater. Avoid using chemical cleaners.