Shoe design pushes the boundaries of what is possible in both the real and virtual worlds through cutting-edge technologies, groundbreaking materials and new and innovative ways of thinking about what a shoe can be.

New ways of making and innovations in materials inspire shoe designers to challenge how shoes can look and feel. This book explores today's most futuristic shoe designs, from the use of new technologies such as 3D printing and smart technology to the invention of sustainable materials, including 'leather' made from mushrooms and soles made from reclaimed ocean plastic. It also explores the design of shoes in the virtual world where compliance with issues such as comfort and gravity no longer play a role. The importance of sneakers in games like Grand Theft Auto and Fortnite is explored, as well as the new enthusiasm for collectable non-fungible token (NFT) sneakers that are being purchased for tens of thousands of dollars for a single pair.

In-depth interviews with contemporary designers including Iris van Herpen, the team at RTFKT, Steven Smith, Eric Avar, Alexander Taylor and more, all conducted by the author, dive deep into the creative process, influences and future of shoe design. The introduction provides an overview of great footwear innovations from the past that have kept us one step ahead.

About the Author
Elizabeth Semmelhack is an acclaimed shoe historian and director and senior curator of the Bata Shoe Museum.

Specifications

Format: hardback
Trim size: 271 x 233 mm (10.7 x 9.2 inches)
Pages: 224 pp
ISBN: 9780847871223