Problem Area
This project focuses on reducing waste in the footwear industry. Footwear was chosen because it is often overlooked in discussions about environmental impact compared to textiles. However, further investigation revealed that the footwear industry has a significant environmental impact and is said to be at least 10 years behind the fashion industry in terms of human rights and environmental standards. Overconsumption is a major issue, with over 25 billion pairs of shoes produced annually and only 5% recycled. The complex and labour-intensive manufacturing methods used in footwear production also contribute to the environmental impact.
The Solution
SoleMate is a sustainable and modular footwear concept designed for easy customisation and repairability of individual parts. It addresses the issue of overconsumption in the footwear industry by allowing users to customise their shoes for different outfits and occasions, reducing the number of pairs needed. The shoe has three components: a bio-based EVA foam sole, Merino wool upper, and organic cotton elastic straps. The modular design allows for the replacement of individual parts rather than the entire shoe, reducing waste.
Research Process
My research process began with a comprehensive secondary research phase, involving an extensive review of academic papers, articles, and websites on sustainability in the fashion industry. Additionally, I delved into the current footwear market, analysing successful product design and consumer preferences. Benchmarking exercises were conducted to identify positive and negative design aspects, providing a solid foundation for my research.
The primary research phase of the project was equally extensive and consisted of interviews and surveys. Three interviews were conducted, one with a fashion design student and two with footwear designers, which provided valuable insights into customer behaviour and attitudes towards sustainability in fashion, as well as specific design details for modular footwear. The online survey I conducted explored areas of consumer buying habits, brand loyalty, product lifecycle, and sustainability.
By synthesising both primary and secondary research data, I identified recurring problems, themes, and connections. Combined with a root cause analysis, the main problem area and findings were highlighted which ultimately influenced the project brief. The finding, insights and project brief can be found below.
Project Brief
To design a modular shoe that can be easily repaired and customised to suit your desired style.
Conceptualisation
The conceptualisation phase marked a critical juncture in the design process. This phase involved the exploration and development of design ideas and concepts, which eventually lead to the selection of a final design direction. The process of conceptualisation involved brainstorming sessions, sketching, and prototyping, as well as engaging with feedback from stakeholders and users. The two designers that were interviewed, Jesse and Daniel, provided instrumental help during this process as we engaged in regular feedback sessions and design critics which helped guide the direct of the project. Throughout the conceptualisation phase, various challenges and opportunities emerged, which will discussed how how they were overcame to achieve a successful footwear design.
User-centred Approach
A user-centred approach to footwear design is imperative because it places the user's needs at the forefront of the design process. By understanding the user's needs, it allowed me to create footwear that is comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. This approach involved conducting user research to gain insights into the user's behaviours, preferences, and pain points. The insights gained from user research can inform design decisions such as material selection, style, and construction methods. By designing with the user in mind, designers can create footwear that is not only desirable but also meets the functional requirements of the user. User testing was a core fundamental of the conceptual phase and was engaged with every step of the way to ensure the product facilitated the user needs
Prototyping
Concept Exploration
During the subsequent stage, a more thorough exploration was conducted into the more promising concepts identified in the earlier phase. One such concept involved repurposing traditional shoelaces to secure the sole of the shoe. Building upon this initial concept, it was determined through user testing that elastic straps could be a more viable solution instead of traditional laces. The elastic straps would offer greater comfort and security by conforming to the shape of the foot and self-tightening as necessary. Through various models and experimentation, the concept began to evolve into a more promising direction.
After a number of concepts had been developed, a Pugh matrix was used to evaluate and compare multiple concepts using various criteria. The criteria used to evaluate the concepts included customisability, repairability, comfort, style, and functionality. Various sole shapes were experimented with but one that offered the optimal solution was one that featured a triangular shape at the arch of the foot. This would have the straps at each side of the triangle which provided the optimal angle to secure both the front and the back of the shoe.
User Interaction
Below shows a storyboard of how the would be used. First you would pick out your sole, upper and straps. Next you would insert the straps by putting the clips through the slots on the sole. Then you would put on the upper. Finally, you would insert your foot with the upper on between the two straps down onto the sole
Final Design
SoleMate is redefining footwear and aims to combat the excessive waste and overconsumption in the fashion industry. It's designed with sustainability in mind, from minimal manufacturing to sustainable material selection. The innovative design of SoleMate allows users to customise their shoes to suit different outfits and styles, reducing the need to purchase multiple pairs. This not only saves the users money but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with the production and disposal of multiple shoes. The modular element of the design also enables the product to evolve over time, keeping up with changing fashion trends. Additionally, the ability to repair individual parts of the shoe instead of having to replace the entire pair helps to reduce waste and extends the life of the product. SoleMate not only offers users a stylish and functional shoe but also an eco-friendly and sustainable option.
The shoe is composed of three primary components: the sole, upper, and straps. The bio-based EVA foam sole forms the foundation of the shoe and is where the upper fits in and the straps connect. The Merino wool upper encompasses the foot and provides both warmth and comfort. Lastly, the organic cotton elastic straps, consisting of two parts, are what bind the entire shoe together. One strap goes over the front of the foot, while the other wraps around the back, ensuring a secure fit.
Product Eco-system
The product life cycle for SoleMate was a huge consideration throughout the whole design process and it is a huge component in how SoleMate will address the design brief. It is not just the materials and manufacturing processes that make this product sustainable, it’s the ecosystem around the product. Through the SoleMate website you will be able to buy individual parts. These parts are all made of a single materials which makes it easier to recycle. When consumers has a part that is damaged or they don’t want it anymore, SoleMate can take it back, recycle the part and make it into a brand new part. There will also be incentives involved to encourage consumers to participate in the circular economy. This will create a circular economy within SoleMate and will help reduce waste in the footwear industry.
