An adaptable skateboarding sneaker, built to shred on and off the board.
The SK8002 is a mid-top silhouette that uses 3D-printed materials to maximize comfort, performance and durability, creating a tech-forward sneaker built to withstand the trials of street skating and daily use.
The Ask:
Design a grail sneaker that represents unresolved love
SK8002 was designed as a custom prop for the film Sole Obsession, where it symbolizes the lead character Christian’s emotional tie to his late girlfriend. As the sneaker strains his new relationship, it becomes a metaphor for grief and unresolved love. I chose a skate shoe because it’s meant to be destroyed—mirroring the film’s themes of loss and letting go.
Inspiration
When looking for inspiration. I referenced sneakers from different eras that have had major impacts on sneaker culture. I identified the standout elements that set these apart from other kicks of the time.
Some important takeaways my research led me to, is the attention to fine details is essential to creating a stand-out model. It is also important to balance the loudness of the shoe between the color and panel patterns.
Ideation
Creating the evolution of the SK8001, My goal was to focus on improving the quality of my craftsmanship, level up the material usage, and include more functional design elements that elevated
Color & Material Exploration
Exploring different textures and color blocking, referencing symbolism in the film. Our goal is to select a unique and attention-grabbing palette, but also entirely wearable.
Working with the client, we explored different material uses, leveraging 3D modeling and printing to circumvent previous limitations to custom handmade footwear.
Pattern Making
After translating the pattern digitally, I laser cut and assembled a denim prototype for the first pullover.
This allowed me to check how the panels actually layered with one another, as well as any additional adjustments to be made to the pattern before machine-cutting the materials for the final product.
Creating Functional, Skate-Able Elements with 3D Printing
All 3D printed elements on the sneaker were 3D modeled in Rhino3D, and printed using a flexible TPU Filament.
The Straps
• Placement protects the laces from griptape wear from all flip tricks
• Allows for a custom fit that can be quickly adjusted for casual wear or performance
• TPU Strap reinforcements nested under the strap loops maintain the structural integrity of the sneaker as the straps are adjusted with each wear.
The Netting
Assembly
The painting, sewing, and lasting of the SK8002 was done entirely by hand, totaling over 25 hours of labor for assembly alone. The process is as follows:
Airbrushed Gradients and small elements
Leather Gluing the pattern, sewing some panels in place.
Sewing the interior foam and liner
Shaping the toe reinforcement and heel counter between the exterior pattern and liner
Sewing the rest of the panels on the upper, double stitching in high-wear areas.
Forming the upper over the last using tacks, cementing it into place.
Prepping the sole, cementing it to the upper, sole pressing, then hand sewing it.
