More Japanese are wearing sneakers to work as companies support the trend to help enhance the health of their employees.

In a country where attentiveness to rigid business attire can often be an exercise in conformity, the sneaker trend represents a breath of fresh air.

Numerous kinds of sneakers are hitting the shelves in the men's section of shoe stores these days, with shoemakers focusing on the development of sneakers that go well with suits to take advantage of this business opportunity.

Since autumn 2016, Tokyu Corp. has been allowing about 1,000 employees at its head office in Tokyo's Shibuya district to wear sneakers during their commute and at work as part of its "healthy management" initiative.

Nearly half of employees of the railway operator say they have walked further distances than previously during their commute, with 80 percent of employees aged 35 or younger having done so.

The hope is that people who get up early and walk extra distances by cutting the time they spend on trains can transform themselves into "early birds" and improve their productivity at work.

"They are very comfortable and less tiring," a 30-year-old male employee of the company said about his sneakers.

He walks 15 minutes to work about three times a week in his sneakers. Since his duties require him to go out in search of real estate properties, he walks about seven kilometers a day.

The Japan Sports Agency has been promoting commuting in sneakers as a way to address the issue of lack of exercise, and a number of other major companies, such as Asahi Soft Drink Co., have also been encouraging their employees to wear sneakers during their commute and walk more.

Taking a cue from the "Cool Biz" campaign that promotes a more casual summer dress code, the trend is also catching on with retailers.

The Shinjuku outlet of department store operator Takashimaya Co. has recently expanded its men's shoes section and increased the variety of sneakers on display.

Sales of sneakers account for 15 percent of all shoe sales in the men's section, a twofold increase from last November when the store increased its display of sneakers.

Most of the customers who bought sneakers were in their 40s and 50s and best-selling items were priced from around 20,000 yen ($180) to 25,000 yen, according to the store.

Some customers come to buy dress shoes but end up purchasing sneakers recommended by their family members, a store official said.

Sports brand products that make walking easier are popular, according to the store.

For people focusing on coordinating their suits, the store recommends rubber-soled footwear with the appearance of dress shoes.