PROJECT OVERVIEWUsing the design thinking process, redesign an athlete’s shoe from the sole up.
The goal is to deliver the best possible shoe for a particular sport. |
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DAY 1
To learn about our shoe innovations project, let's watch this intro video:
QUESTIONS?
HANDOUT PROJECT PACKET
>>>>ASK - How can you design a shoe that can help an athlete perform better at a particular sport?
>>>>IMAGINE - Sneaker Innovation Notes
After watching the two sneaker innovation videos in class and discussing, write down the features, colors, designs, materials, and other details that interested you. You should write down at least 3 ideas. Watch the videos again, if needed.
>>>>IMAGINE - Sneaker Innovation Notes
After watching the two sneaker innovation videos in class and discussing, write down the features, colors, designs, materials, and other details that interested you. You should write down at least 3 ideas. Watch the videos again, if needed.
Prior to making a prototye, you will design your shoe and make a Concept Board. Here are a few student and professional examples:
RESEARCH. Watch the inspiration videos. In the VIDEO NOTES section of your SNEAKER INNOVATION packet, take note of the styles, colors, features, and innovations that inspire you.
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Begin sketching.
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Day 2-4
Using graph paper in your , sketch out several versions of athletic shoe designs based on your discoveries from the Dream It activities.
Take your favorite sketch and develop it further. You will need:
Sneakers are complex, 3D-engineered products typically made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials, including rubber, EVA foam, leather, and various fabrics like nylon or polyester mesh. Modern sneakers focus on lightweight, durable components, with synthetic plastics, mesh, and specialized rubber, or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), used to provide cushioning, flexibility, and support.
Key Components and Materials:
Sneakers can have up to 50 individual parts, including the upper, sole, lining, and laces, which are often produced and assembled separately.
- a side view
- a top view
- a bottom view
- labels of various features and innovations
Sneakers are complex, 3D-engineered products typically made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials, including rubber, EVA foam, leather, and various fabrics like nylon or polyester mesh. Modern sneakers focus on lightweight, durable components, with synthetic plastics, mesh, and specialized rubber, or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), used to provide cushioning, flexibility, and support.
Key Components and Materials:
- Outsole (Bottom/Traction): Primarily composed of rubber or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) for durability and grip.
- Lining and Reinforcements: Frequently, these include synthetic fabrics, plastic materials, and specialized, reinforced stitching to maintain shape.
Shoemakers Academy +4
- Upper (Top/Sides): Often constructed from breathable synthetic mesh, nylon, canvas, or leather (including suede and nubuck) to secure the foot.
- Midsole (Cushioning): Usually made of EVA foam or polyurethane (PU) for shock absorption and comfort
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- Synthetic Materials: Nylon, polyester mesh, and polyurethane (PU) are commonly used for lightweight performance.
- Natural Materials: Leather, suede, and canvas are used for style and durability.
- Foams/Plastics: EVA is a common, lightweight material used in midsoles.
- Sustainability: Some brands are increasingly incorporating recycled, organic, or sustainable materials.
Sneakers can have up to 50 individual parts, including the upper, sole, lining, and laces, which are often produced and assembled separately.
Choose your favorite design, and make a larger drawing using colored pencils to label the characteristics. These can include special features, texture, and type of sole.
Read and watch more about materials and take notes about the materials you will use to construct your shoe. The following link is a playlist showing how different shoe companies construct their shoes. You can also watch the additional, more detailed video below.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgiauwawBZP0DB0x5Opv4GymuL_vOliDX
Read and watch more about materials and take notes about the materials you will use to construct your shoe. The following link is a playlist showing how different shoe companies construct their shoes. You can also watch the additional, more detailed video below.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgiauwawBZP0DB0x5Opv4GymuL_vOliDX
Day 4
Build a 3D athletic shoe prototype out of cardstock. Watch this video to learn more about assembly.
- • To begin, trace your foot onto the piece of cardboard and cut it out OR modify the cardstock template.
- • Be sure to include the same features as your design sketch. For example, you may have to modify the height of the ankle or the shape of the toe to accurately reflect your design.
- • You may also want to decorate your shoe using colored pencils or markers before cutting it out. Remember to include your logo.
- • Cut your template based on your modifications, and create a 3D cardstock version of your athletic shoe using the cardboard cutout of your foot as the sole. The paper shoe construction techniques in the following video can help:
- • Add the shoelaces and any decorations to your paper model (if time/materials are available).
STEP 6
Answer all questions in your SNEAKER INNOVATIONS packet.
- • Which sport are you designing your shoe for?
- • How is your shoe unique? Is it different from other athletic shoes?
- • What materials support the shoe’s functions?
- • Are there any special features at play?
- • What do you think of the shoe’s final appearance?
