Footwear creation has added creativity, but also a lot of waste. Traditional sneakers have only a short lifespan, and people tend to buy and throw them much faster. Shoe construction uses different materials, which makes them almost impossible and unprofitable to disassemble or recycle, which is why Burfeind has designed Sneature, a sustainable alternative for those who are eco-conscious. The yarn of the shoe is made of dog hair, which is a biological waste being upcycled. The design of Sneature considers the functional requirements of a trainer and individual customization by the user. The process uses 3D knitting, which allows for customization and on-demand production while still using low energy consumption. The shoes have flexibility, stiffness, and air circulation with a very second-skin feel to them.
The materials have natural properties that provide water absorption and release and anti-static properties. A layer of flexible bio-rubber/bioplastic forms the transition from the membrane to the sole. The junction is water-repellent against splashing or moisture from below while protecting the areas that quickly wear out. The sole is made of mushroom mycelium which can be used as a composite material with local vegetable waste. The area is designed to be made of bioplastics which means this material can be produced at home or in a maker’s lab like DIY materials.
Original Article: https://www.yankodesign.com/2021/01/11/this-biodegradable-shoe-is-crafted-using-waste-materials-and-3d-knitting/
