Lesson Summary
This lesson introduces students to the foundational principles of sneaker design. Through a step-by-step process inspired by professional sneaker designers, students will develop their own unique sneaker designs.
Lesson Objectives
Familiarize students with the key elements of sneaker design.
Guide students through brainstorming and idea generation for their sneaker designs.
Encourage students to consider various factors such as target audience, theme, color scheme, and functionality in their design process.
Guiding Questions
Shoe fashion is a big part of culture and while it is important for sneakers to look stylish in order to appeal to buyers, they must also function correctly. The best designs combine superior style and functionality for the wearer.
Can you name some sneaker brands? Which ones do you like and why?
What kind of sneakers are you wearing now? What makes you choose to buy a sneaker, the brand, looks, color, intended use?
What is the the importance of design when you buy sneakers?
These days, sneakers are so specialized. What specific activities are they designed for?
What type of materials are sneakers made of?
What would you do to improve from other sneakers? Use other materials? Create a different design?
What makes these sneaker designs successful? Below are some examples of iconic sneaker designs.
Guiding Questions
Sneaker fashion plays a significant role in cultural expression. While stylish aesthetics are crucial for attracting buyers, functionality is equally important. The best designs seamlessly blend superior style and practicality for the wearer.
Can you name some popular sneaker brands? Which ones appeal to you and why?
What type of sneakers are you currently wearing? What factors influenced your decision to purchase them, such as brand, appearance, color, or intended use?
Why is design important when selecting sneakers?
Sneakers today are highly specialized. What specific activities or purposes are they designed for?
What materials are commonly used in sneaker manufacturing?
How would you enhance existing sneaker designs? Would you consider using alternative materials or creating a different aesthetic?
What factors contribute to the success of these iconic sneaker designs below?
Conceptual Process
Sneakers are meticulously engineered products that utilize a blend of materials to craft highly functional footwear. Designing sneakers involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure the shoe meets its intended purpose effectively.
Choose a Brand: Begin by selecting a brand for which you want to design a sneaker. Is there a specific brand that resonates with you, or that you believe would benefit from your design?
Determine Sneaker Type: Consider the intended use of your sneakers. Which sport or activity are you designing for, and who is the target audience for your footwear?
Define Sneaker Characteristics: Identify the specific characteristics your sneakers need. Consider properties such as flexibility, traction, cushioning, and durability. What materials will provide these desired properties?
Materials Selection: Explore different materials suitable for your design. Consider factors such as breathability, support, and weight when choosing materials for the upper, midsole, and outsole of your sneaker.
Sketching: Generate a range of sketches to visualize your ideas. Create detailed sketches depicting how various materials and components will be integrated into the design. Include multiple views, such as top, side, back, and bottom, to fully conceptualize your sneaker.
Critique: Engage in a class critique of the sneaker designs. Emphasize the value of learning from both successes and failures, as constructive feedback can lead to improvements in materials and design, resulting in better end products.
Terminology
Conceptual Design — Refers to the initial stage of the design process where ideas and concepts are generated and explored before detailed planning and implementation.
Brand — Is the name of the distinctive product or service. i.e. Nike, Starbucks, Hyundai.
Logo — A symbol made up of visual elements that represents a brand or entity.