KATO X WHITE'S
KATO’s designer, Nick, shares his thoughts on the collaboration with White’s.
Could you tell us about how this collaboration came to be?
I’ve always loved boots — from sneakers to dress shoes to rugged work boots, I’ve collected more pairs than I can count. Back in the 1990s, when work boots started gaining popularity in Japan, I went through a phase of buying every pair I could find. That’s when I first discovered White’s Boots. They immediately stood out to me — Made in the USA, built entirely by hand, with a weight and authenticity that spoke to real craftsmanship. Despite their ruggedness, there was a refinement to their design, and the more I wore them, the more character they gained.
When I started Hiroshi Kato, those memories — along with our shared philosophy of Made in the USA, made me feel a natural connection to White’s. Over time, the idea of collaborating took shape, and this partnership grew from that shared respect for craftsmanship.
Was there anything particularly fun or inspiring during the planning and development process?
As we planned the collaboration, we kept asking the same question: how do we make something that feels true to Kato while honoring what White’s does best? We landed on a simple idea — vintage meets comfort — and set out to build that with White’s handwork as the foundation, the heartbeat of the boot, the element that ties every detail together. The goal was a boot that carries the durability and purpose of classic workwear but also sits right in a modern wardrobe — equally at home on the job or worn for its style.
What were you especially particular about when creating these special collaboration boots?
For the last, we chose White’s Classic Semi Dress, which gives the design a refined silhouette that pairs just as well with wool trousers as it does with denim. To ensure lasting comfort, we opted for a Vibram Christy crepe sole for its superior cushioning. But instead of the usual white or cream tone that leans workwear, we went full triple black — upper, midsole, and sole — for a more versatile, modern look. The result is a boot that balances durability with understated sophistication. Using black teacore Horween Chromexcel leather, the surface gradually reveals warm brown tones as it ages, developing a patina unique to each wearer — much like a pair of well-worn jeans.
Going forward, what kind of things would you like to do with KATO?
This collaboration with White’s has deepened my desire to share the beauty of American craftsmanship with more people—to let them experience what Made in the USA truly means. To do that, we have to stay true to our uncompromising approach to making things the right way. I want us to continue evolving by collaborating with brands that share our values and philosophy—those who believe, as we do, that quality and integrity are worth every effort.
Currently available for U.S. customers only.
