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SAKASANANO: The Umbrella of the Future

In a significant collaboration between Toray Industries and Waterfront Co., Ltd., the exceptionally innovative waterproof umbrella, "SAKASANANO," has been launched to mark the 40th anniversary of Waterfront and the 100th anniversary of Toray. This umbrella's design applies Toray’s proprietary NANODESIGN® technology, allowing for advanced water repellency while addressing environmental concerns linked with traditional water repellents. As regulations tighten around harmful substances like PFAS, the umbrella industry faces challenges in maintaining high-performance water repellency.

Changing Rainfall Patterns and the Need for Better Water Repellency

Recent years have witnessed drastic changes in Japan's precipitation conditions. Rainy days have been steadily decreasing, yet intensified by global warming, short bursts of heavy rain are now more frequent. This imbalance poses a unique challenge: while the rainy days are fewer, when it does rain, it can be unexpectedly severe. As such, modern umbrellas need to offer both practicality and aesthetic value, appealing to the growing demand for premium products.

However, as we rethink the environmental impact of water-repellent technology, maintaining top-tier performance has become increasingly difficult. The release of "SAKASANANO" marks a critical response to this challenge, promoting a new era in umbrella design and functionality.

Features of SAKASANANO

1. Next-Generation Water Repellency Without Harmful Chemicals
Utilizing Toray's NANODESIGN® technology, this umbrella achieves maximum water repellent capability without heavy reliance on traditional chemical treatments. By manipulating the size and shape of fibers at a nanoscopic level, it creates unique surface structures that enhance water repellency. This innovation allows water droplets to effortlessly bead off the surface, realizing the pinnacle of repellent functionality.

2. Unique Inverted Design
The traditional problem where dirt and oil from hands can diminish water resistance has been effectively addressed through an innovative inverted design that minimizes direct contact with the repellent surface. When closed, the wet side is stored inside, preventing users from getting soaked while entering or exiting cars or public transport. This design significantly improves user experience and practicality, ensuring that both the user and surrounding individuals remain dry.

3. A Sustainable Umbrella That Grows with You
One of the stand-out features of SAKASANANO is its replaceable fabric system. As the umbrella experiences wear, the fabric can be easily swapped out without requiring a full replacement, allowing for long-term use. With around 80 million umbrellas discarded annually in Japan, many of which are not recycled, this initiative contributes to reducing environmental waste. Not only does SAKASANANO present a sustainable solution, but it will also offer easy fabric replacement options for consumers in the future, significantly mitigating the ecological burdens associated with umbrella disposal.

4. Streamlined Design by Yota Tsukuda
Designed by the renowned product designer Yota Tsukuda, SAKASANANO embodies a minimalist approach that emphasizes both practicality and aesthetic appeal. By focusing on a singular umbrella model rather than overwhelming variations, it boasts a unisex design that appeals to a wide audience. The umbrella's construction is meticulously honed to ensure a perfect harmony between function and refined style.

Launch Details

• - Product Name: SAKASANANO
• - Price: 14,300 yen (including tax)
• - Parent Bone Size: 61 cm
• - Pre-Order Start: Mid-May 2026
• - General Sale Start: Late June 2026
• - Availability: Waterfront JIYUGAOKA/TOKYO and official online stores.

In addition, a special exhibition showcasing SAKASANANO will be held at Tsutaya Electrics Plus starting April 24 to June 22, 2026, where visitors can experience this marvelous umbrella firsthand.

Waterfront, established in 1986, proudly introduces this innovative product as part of its commitment to practical yet stylish solutions, further enhancing its brand value as it looks to the future.