PROJECT OVERVIEW​

Using 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. 

ESSENTIAL SKILLS

Design Thinking
Human-Centered
Design Product
Design Iteration
Prototyping
​Collaboration Communication

MATERIALS

SNEAKER INNOVATION PACKET
​• Colored Pencils (variety of colors)
​• Athletic Shoe Template (printed on cardstock)
• Cardstock Sheets (8.5 x 11) • Scissors • Stick Glue • Cardboard • Shoelaces

STEP 1 

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. 
​

STEP 2

Watch the PROJECT INTRO to better understand the assignment. 

PROJECT INTRO

STEP 3

​Using graph paper in your , sketch out several versions of athletic shoe designs based on your discoveries from the Dream It activities. 

STEP 4

​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  

STEP 5

​Build a 3D athletic shoe prototype out of cardstock. Watch this video to learn more about assembly.
  1. • To begin, trace your foot onto the piece of cardboard and cut it out OR modify the cardstock template. 
  2. • 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.
  3. • You may also want to decorate your shoe using colored pencils or markers before cutting it out. Remember to include your logo.
  4. • 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:
  5. • 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.
  1. • Which sport are you designing your shoe for?
  2. • How is your shoe unique? Is it different from other athletic shoes?
  3. • What materials support the shoe’s functions?
  4. • Are there any special features at play?
  5. • What do you think of the shoe’s final appearance?