Grand Sportif Moc-Toe Boot Review: Michiya Suzuki’s Journey from Red Wing to The 2 Monkeys

The Grand Sportif, the ultimate moc-toe boot, by The 2 Monkeys is the brainchild of Michiya Suzuki, the former General Manager of Red Wing Japan and the man behind iconic models like the Flatbox Beckman 9060 and Iron Ranger. In this video, I dive into the design philosophy, construction techniques, and historical storytelling behind the Grand Sportif, a tall moc-toe boot made in Japan from horsefront leather and finished with a mix of goodyear welt and blake stitch construction. This is not just another boot review. It is a look into how Michiya’s design language evolved after leaving Red Wing, and how his passion for classic Americana and French elegance fused into something entirely new. We’ll cover: - The connection between Red Wing Japan and The 2 Monkeys - The historical influences behind the Sportif concept - Construction details and fit - Leather, comfort, and style impressions - How to wear and where to buy Whether you’re a heritage footwear collector, Red Wing enthusiast, or just curious about Japanese craftsmanship, this boot represents the next step in a long lineage of storytelling through design.