#Japan #Tokyo #Brift H #Ryuu Niita #Boot Black

Celebrating Excellence in Shoe Shining: Ryuu Niita's Historic Win

On May 10, 2025, the prestigious World Championships of Shoe Shining took place in London, coinciding with the renowned Super Trunk Show, an international leather shoe exhibition. This year, Ryuu Niita from Boot Black Japan, a subsidiary of United Arrows, claimed the championship title, marking a significant milestone as the first Japanese contestant to achieve this extraordinary feat. Niita had already made waves in the shoe shining world by winning national competitions in 2023 and 2024, solidifying his reputation as a master in the craft.

The World Championships of Shoe Shining

The World Championships of Shoe Shining is an annual event that draws top talents from around the globe, all competing under a singular rule: to polish one shoe to perfection within a strict time limit of 20 minutes. Evaluators assess contestants based on shine, gradient, and overall presentation, including the techniques used during the polishing process. The simplicity of this format sheds light on the artistry and skill involved in achieving that flawless finish.

In the finale, Niita stood out among the top three finalists, who showcased their exceptional abilities. His innovative technique of applying wax to the soles of the shoes was particularly noteworthy. This approach, along with his keen eye for balance and aesthetics, ultimately led to his victory, which not only captured the title but also marked a historic moment as he became Japan's first two-time world champion.

A Legacy of Excellence

Niita’s victory continues the legacy of his team, Brift H, as this marks the third time its members have won this global competition, following successes in 2017 and 2023. The philosophy behind their work,