A retro-inspired, performance skate shoe.
The SK8001, designed for Atlanta-based fashion label ISSUE 3003, was born from a passion for streetwear and skateboarding.
A commitment to combining style with performance, the SK8001 incorporates luxury materials with functional design.
Skills
Fashion Marketing
Functional SNKR Design
Pattern Design
Shoe Making
Timeline
10 weeks
About the design
The SK8001 is the first sneaker I designed and handcrafted. Originally created for a fashion marketing class, I became invested in the design, and I taught myself the construction process. Through trial and error—using whatever tools I had on hand—I brought the concept to life.
Inspiration and Ideation
Selected Design & Functional Details
The upper of the SK8001 is a durable leather, backed with foam padding in the collar and the tongue for comfort and support. Its chunky silhouette draws inspiration from classic 90s and early 2000s skate shoes. The lace loops deflect griptape wear from the laces, and the double-layered leather toe ensures the flick feels the same for the whole lifespan of the sneaker. Inside the cupsole is a double-layered midsole, with cork and EVA foam, underneath a non-newtonian insole for maximum impact protection.
Colorway Exploration
The Build
When crafting these sneakers this was the process I followed:
Translating the orthographic views to a sneaker last for pattern making
Use the first iteration pattern to create a denim first pull over
Make adjustments to pattern as needed, similar to redlining
Sew and assemble sneaker out of final materials with adjustments.
Charcoal SK8001
I crafted the charcoal pair after the bone pair, allowing me to improve my techniques and apply what I learned from making the first one. This allowed for a cleaner, more feature-rich design.
Performance Features:
Marketing Aproach
© Andrew Yi Design 2024