Skateboarding phenomenon and icon Yuto Totsuka has made headlines once again, though this time it is due to his sparkling silver and gold nail art. This unusual variation from the ordinary stark sports-grooming norms has been generating buzz across Japan. His choice to step outside conventional masculinity boundaries is expected to ignite conversations about breaking gender norms in sports.

In sharply homogeneous and conformist Japan, any deviation from the norm tends to attract attention. Traditional gender norms are quite stern, even in the creative and innovative sports world. Totsuka’s choice to openly exhibit his metallic nail art is seen as a small but important step in challenging these established norms. It indicates a slow change in the societal perspectives on masculinity and the acceptance of diverse expressions of personal style in sports.

In contrast to Japan, western countries like the US and EU nations generally have more flexibility when it comes to expressions of individuality, including in sports. Athletes in those countries are often trendsetters, and their personal style and fashion choices are usually celebrated. Despite this, makeup and nail art are not as commonly seen in male athletes in these nations, making Totsuka's move unique and potentially influential worldwide.