2015’s 20 Most Inventive Shoes
Wearable technology shouldn’t be limited to your wrists. This year, sneakerheads, Star Wars fans and fashion mavens found commonality in innovative, tech-centric footwear. From LED bulbs that reinvented light-up sneakers to self-lacing high tops from Back to the Future, every style from stilettos to sport sandals has been reimagined.
1. Orphe smart shoe
Orphe was created by Japanese startup no new folk studio Inc. Designed with performers in mind, each sole holds a small circuit board complete with Bluetooth technology, motion-tracking sensors, a charging circuit and LED bulbs. The lights can be synced to specific sounds and controlled by a program on your tablet.
2. Adidas Futurecraft 3D
Say hello to couture sneakers. These shoes are crafted specifically for each customer’s unique needs by scanning their feet in store and gathering performance data from a quick run on the treadmill. Adidas inputs this data through 3D matching technology to craft a midsole perfect for you.
While the plans have been released, the shoe has yet to hit the market.
3. Chanel sandal
Image: @osirismartinez on Instagram
In 2008 Karl Lagerfeld added light bulbs to the heels of Chanel’s pre-fall shoes. As technology progresses so do the designer’s avant-garde ideas. He has since infused LED lights into high heels and platform sandals (above), which walked the runway at label’s spring 2016 show.
4. Nike Mags
In October Nike confirmed rumors of a self-lacing high top modeled after the pair in Back to the Future. Proceeds from the limited edition shoe will be donated to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Purchase details will be released in spring 2016.
5. Nicholas Kirkwood arcade shoes
To celebrate 10 years in the business, shoe designer Nicholas Kirkwood released arcade-themed shoes. The sculptural heels were inspired by Pac-Man, Atari, Star Wars and Back to the Future.
6. Greats x Beast Mode
Brooklyn-based sneaker brand Greats collaborated with Beast Mode to create a shoe that fights against counterfeits. By scanning a smart chip embedded in the sneaker with an iPhone or Android, collectors can verify product authenticity. Users will learn the kick’s limited edition number and unique digital profile and check out bonus content from the brands. The shoes are available for $199.
7. Lebron Zoom Soldier 8 Flyease
In response to a need for a sneaker that is easier to fasten, Nike created the Lebron Zoom Soldier 8 Flyease. Specifically designed to be more accessible for people with disabilities, the shoe swaps laces for an easy peel zipper.
8. Color-changing heels
Volvorii Timeless smart heels are designed with an electronic e-ink fabric, which displays various designs depending on the wearer’s preference. Users can alter the pump’s aesthetic via an app by transferring between solid black, solid white or a handful of black and white patterns.
9. Shiftwear
New York-based brand Shiftwear created a shoe with custom HD animations. Users can add movable art to their kicks by selecting a screen choice from an app on their tablet or smartphone via a wireless connection.
10. Star Wars shoes
Image: www.irregularchoice.com
In anticipation of Star Wars: Episode VII The Force Awakens , footwear brand Irregular Choice created a collection of flats and heels modeled after light sabers, storm troopers and furry Chewbacca.