New Nike A.I.R. Footwear

When Nike introduced their now-controversial 2024 Olympics outfits for the Track and Field division several weeks ago, they also debuted a new line of conceptual footwear developed using man-made sketches, computational and parametric design, generative AI, rapid prototyping, and 3D printers. While some look like modified versions of a regular Nike shoe, others seem to be from the far future or even an alternate dimension. And I think they are amazing.

https://www.nike.com/

The Cryptide Shoe by Stefan Henrich

Hot on the heels of London and Milan Fashion Weeks (pun intended), here is an amazing 3D printed shoe by Stephan Henrich, robotic designer and architect. Called The Cryptide, it features a very unique toe structure. And yes, it has been printed and the shoe can actually be worn!

https://stephanhenrich.de/

Nike ISPA

In anticipation of Paris Fashion Week, postponed from last month, here are some fascinating shoes to contemplate! Just look at these forms, shapes, and designs!

Nike has been pushing the boundaries of athletic footwear for some time and they have just announced the release of a new line, the ISPA collection. The ISPA capsule was first launched in 2018, as Nike out set out to accomplish a design philosophy with four key elements: "Improvise. Scavenge. Protect. Adapt."

Here is the Road Warrior show that features the split tabi toe and an amazing sole!

And here is the Overreact shoe featuring an upper of excess yarn that was destined for landfill. The brand told online magazine Input, "Nike has made a commitment to being more sustainable across the company. It is part of Nike’s broader Move to Zero commitment, a journey towards zero carbon and waste to help protect the future of sport."

The Overreact also comes in a sandal form!

And finally, the Drifter is modeled on Japanese work boots, again featuring the tabi toe.

https://ispa.live/login

BEAUTY: Shoe--Puma BMW X-CAT Disc Sneaker

Puma and BMW's Designworks have teamed up to create a marvel of a shoe. Based on the BMW Gina concept car from 2008--a car which was covered with high performing fabric instead of metal, this shoe uses the Puma Disc technology, a twistable dial at the tongue to tighten the closure, functioning as laces. It's ironic how the car was modeled after fashion, and now the shoes are modeled after the car which was modeled after fashion...

It is sleek and beautifully designed.

On sale now at Puma stores and on-line.
http://us.puma.com/