ACTIVE SHOES Upper and Sole_shoeNB_2.jpg

Active Shoes

Christophe Guberan and Carlo Clopath + Self-Assembly Lab, MIT

This project explores the future of production and performance of shoes. By printing a precise 2-dimensional pattern, the shape of a shoe can self-transform after being released from the machine. Material of varied layer thickness and property is printed onto stretched textiles then released after printing, allowing the shoe to jump into pre-programmed shapes. The combination of stretch fabric and printed patterns offers both flexibility and stability. We demonstrate a new production method, which reduces the complexity and labor required for shoe production while combining different materials for self-forming and adaptive shoes. 


Film by: Emile Barret
Music: "Resound" by Lullatone