Sans Normal Koken 1 is a bold, narrow, low contrast, italic, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Dupont Gothic' by Hexagon Foundry (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: headlines, posters, sports branding, packaging, signage, sporty, urgent, dynamic, confident, industrial, emphasis, speed, impact, space-saving, branding, oblique, condensed, blocky, compact, angular curves.
A compact, heavy oblique sans with tight proportions and a forward-leaning stance. Strokes are broadly uniform with minimal modulation, giving counters and joins a solid, engineered feel. Curves are rounded but slightly squared at transitions, and terminals are clean and blunt, reinforcing a sturdy, contemporary texture. Spacing reads relatively tight, creating a dense rhythm that holds together well at display sizes.
Best suited to short-form setting where impact and motion matter: headlines, posters, sports or motorsport-themed branding, and bold packaging callouts. It can also work for directional signage or interface highlights when used sparingly, where its condensed, oblique presence helps text stand out.
The overall tone is energetic and assertive, with a slanted posture that suggests speed and momentum. Its weight and compactness feel purposeful and practical, leaning toward a modern, workmanlike voice rather than a delicate or formal one.
The design appears intended to deliver high-impact messaging in a compact footprint, combining a strong sans structure with an oblique slant for speed and emphasis. It prioritizes visual punch and cohesive, dense texture over quiet neutrality.
Round letters maintain generous inner counters for the weight, while diagonals and angled joins (e.g., in K, V, W, X) contribute to a punchy, directional pattern. Numerals are similarly compact and sturdy, matching the letterforms’ forward drive.