Technology Research
Modern “super shoes” like the Nike Vaporfly and Alphafly have revolutionized long-distance racing by combining ultra-lightweight, high-rebound foams (such as ZoomX) with embedded carbon fiber plates that can improve running economy by up to 4%, translating to faster race times and less fatigue over long distances.
These shoes are typically designed with flowy, organic forms that visually express speed and softness, mimicking biological motion. However, Infinite Pulse takes a different route—blending this performance-driven technology with a cyberpunk-inspired design language. Rather than relying on smooth, aerodynamic curves alone, this concept introduces more angular, “low-poly” geometry to reflect a digital, industrial aesthetic—bridging the gap between biomechanics and machine logic.
Reference Sneakers
I selected these three sneakers because they each successfully convey a separate design aesthetic that I want to recreate on the infinte pulse, blending the form with it's function. Although they are not all super shoes, each sneaker's design language relays it's functional purpose. I identified these design cues to explore in my midsole sketch exploration
Nike Invincible Run
The geometry of this midsole suggests 2 different foam densities, with an exterior foam
that provides more structure, and an interior foam that has more compression
Puma FAST-R NITRO ELITE 2
The split midsole is a really cool visual. It exposes the carbon plate technology
and gives a futuristic feel that I want to explore in my sketches
Sergio Tacchini Runner
The segmented, angular and geometric shapes in a running shoe is different from the current trend of smooth organic shapes on running shoes. I want to explore a “Low-Poly” shape for a futuristic vibe, while maintaining functionality.
Tooling Sketches
For this project, we explored designing the tooling before considering the upper, which emulates a common limitation in design, when footwear designers are limited to selecting an existing tooling for a sneaker.
Gravity Sketch Modeling for Tooling
This sole is designed to be 3D printed in different density foams and a carbon fiber shank for race day performance.
25 upper exploration sketches
Having locked down the tooling design, I explored different possibilities for the upper.
Final Orthographic Views & AI Material Renders
Techpack for manufacturing
© Andrew Yi Design 2024