The future is here, and it’s 3D-printed. From sneakers to clogs, we’re taking a look at some of the best 3D-printed footwear in fashion. Before we know it, footwear will only exist in the Metaverse, so we’d better take the time to appreciate it now.
BOTTER x Reebok
BOTTER’s SS23 show revealed a footwear collaboration with sportswear giant Reebok, inspired by “Aquatic wear.” Lisi Herrebrugh and Rushemy Botter’s collection presented a range of revolutionary fabrics, from kelp to 3D printing, in an effort to represent their sustainability ethos, and its collaboration with Reebok made use of the latter. Named the “Venus Comb Murex Shell” sneaker, the 3D-printed footwear used HP’s printing technology to create a honeycomb/seashell hybrid sole in a myriad of kaleidoscopic colours.
RAINS Puffer Boot Sneaker
Debuted at Denmark-based brand RAINS’ AW23 show in Paris, the Puffer Boot sneaker was designed in collaboration with the leading 3D printing company, Zellerfeld. The sneaker’s silhouette is smooth, wavy, and curvaceous, apparently inspired by the shape of carved stone, with nodules and imprints designed for functionality. They’re breathable, washable,100% recycled, and apparently consist of 90% air, using a fused 3D lattice construction.
3D Printed Carlo by Dior
Creative Director Kim Jones introduced 3D printing to Dior’s runway at AW23 via a futuristic take on the House’s “Carlo” sneaker model. The shoe itself is a perforated boot in meshed material, featuring a Dior monogrammed sole. While it has the silhouette and overall appearance of a pre-existing Dior sneaker, the 3D-printed shoe is lighter than a conventional sneaker and is lace-less, adding to its functionality.
AMBUSH
In 2022, AMBUSH launched a 3D-printed sneaker that also came in the form of an NFT to be worn in the Metaverse. Made in partnership with Zellerfeld, the 3D-printed sneakers were named 100S and used only recycled materials. The silhouette is sleek and futuristic, detailed with ridges to add an aerodynamic element; however, its colour is the first thing you’ll notice, given that the sneakers are bright, lime green, and practically unmissable. Wear it in the real world or the Metaverse: the choice is yours.
ALIVEFORM TOPO-01
Emerging footwear brand ALIVEFORM dropped a fully 3D-printed sneaker last May in the form of this collaboration with HOUSE OF ERRORS. The TOPO-01 model sneaker is sleek and lace-less and uses bio-based materials and organic growth for a sustainable edge. Founder Pek Shun Ping drew inspiration from leaves and coral for the design of the shoe, looking to nature to create its innovative sneakers.
Cover Image: @Botter
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