Onsen Collection II expands Takashi Murakami’s Ohana Hatake line with three new colorways: Purple Ash, Mineral Blue, and Birch. The palette shifts toward softer, mineral-based tones inspired by Japanese hot springs, moving away from the brighter colors typically associated with Murakami’s work. Onsen Collection II keeps the same slip-on silhouette, with a smooth upper and no heavy graphic treatment, letting color and material carry the design instead. The shape remains simple and consistent across all three versions.
The slides are constructed from molded EVA with a cushioned footbed and a lightweight feel suited for daily wear. The outsole features a flower-pattern tread, referencing Murakami’s signature motif in a more subtle way that is only visible from below. Each pair maintains the same structure and fit, with differences focused entirely on tone and finish.
Image Credit: Ohana Hatake
What's Driving This Trend
- Muted Mineral Colorways
- A shift toward softer, stone-inspired palettes creates space for products that prioritize atmosphere and tactile finishes over bold graphics.
- Minimalist Slip-on Silhouettes
- The continued popularity of simple, consistent shapes emphasizes fit and wearability as primary differentiators in casual footwear.
- Subtle Brand Motif Integration
- Low-key placement of signature motifs, such as undersole patterns, enables brands to maintain identity while appealing to understated aesthetic preferences.
Who This Affects Most
- Footwear
- Everyday footwear benefits from combining lightweight molded materials with refined colorways to meet demand for comfortable yet design-forward options.
- Luxury Fashion Collaborations
- High-end collaborations that trade loud logos for nuanced material and color storytelling can attract consumers seeking collectible yet wearable pieces.
- Material Innovation
- Advances in EVA formulation and surface finishes open possibilities for differentiated tactile experiences and sustainable lightweight construction.
