Concept Brief.
The aim of this project is to design a specialized shoe specifically tailored for downhill longboard riders. Downhill longboarding is a high-intensity sport that requires exceptional control, stability, and grip. The shoe will address several challenges commonly faced by these athletes, offering enhanced performance, comfort, and safety. The design will be a part of the renowned Nike SB family to leverage its popularity among longboarders who already use Nike SB shoes such as Dunks.
Objectives.
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Performance Enhancement: Develop a shoe that provides optimal grip, stability, and control, allowing downhill longboard riders to navigate high-speed descents with confidence and precision.
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Comfort and Fit: Create a shoe that offers exceptional comfort and a snug fit, ensuring that longboarders can maintain maximum control over their boards while minimizing discomfort or foot fatigue.
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Durability and Protection: Design a shoe that can withstand the rigors of downhill longboarding, providing adequate protection for the rider's feet against impacts and abrasions.
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Style and Integration: Incorporate the Nike SB aesthetic and brand identity into the shoe design to align it seamlessly with the existing Nike SB family and cater to the preferences of longboarders who are already fans of Nike SB footwear.
Nike SB Family.
The Nike SB family is renowned for its iconic skateboarding footwear, apparel, and accessories. With a rich history rooted in skateboarding culture, Nike SB has become a trusted and respected brand among skateboarders and action sports enthusiasts worldwide, offering a blend of performance, style, and authenticity that resonates with the skateboarding community.
By aligning the design with the Nike SB aesthetic, the shoe will appeal to longboarders who appreciate both performance-driven functionality and fashionable design. This integration will not only enhance the marketability of the shoe but also solidify Nike's commitment to supporting the needs and preferences of the downhill longboarding community.
Downhill Longboarding.
Downhill longboarding is a high-speed sport where riders descend steep hills on longboards, relying on skill and control to navigate turns and maintain speed. It's an exhilarating activity that combines speed, precision, and the art of carving for an adrenaline-fueled experience.
SPEED
ADRENALINE
TECHNICAL
Key Aspects.
Balance
Balance is the key to conquering corners on a
longboard, as it allows riders to maintain control,
adjust their body position, and smoothly carve
through each turn with precision and confidence.
Foot Brake
Foot braking, a fundamental technique in
downhill longboarding, relies on a delicate
balance as riders skillfully apply pressure with
their foot to gradually slow down or come to a
complete stop, providing a crucial element of
control during high-speed descents.
Foot Stance During Tucking
Optimal performance in downhill longboarding
hinges on the significance of a correct and
confident foot stance during tucking, as riders
adopt a streamlined position with precise
weight distribution, ensuring stability, reduced
air resistance, and enhanced control at
incredible speeds.
Current shoes pain points.
Outdated design
Outsole is vulnerable to wear and tear
Outsole's rounded edges doesn't provide enough control during steering/tucking
Overall comfort of the tooling and upper
The Consumer.
Soul of an explorer
18-25 years old
Graphic Designer
$50k+ income
OUTGOING
EDGY
Location: Urban Area close to mountains
COLORADO
SEEKS ADVENTURE
Vibrant, nature-loving individual aged 18-25 residing in Colorado. This edgy and extravagant individual is passionate about longboarding and frequently embarks on mountain adventures with friends. With a strong appreciation for the outdoors, they seek high-performance footwear that complements their active lifestyle while reflecting their unique style.
Design Directions.
Based on my research about users needs and current shoes pain points i identified 4 key aspects that my shoe should prioritize. These aspects are designed to address the specific concerns and requirements of the target audience.
Laceless
Flyknit
Wide base
Durable outsole
Concept Development.
Initial Sketches.
Function Sketch
Gravity Sketch Progress.
Working on Details
The incorporation of the BOA system into the shoe design ensures a secure and personalized fit, mirroring the precise control and stability sought by downhill longboard riders for securing their midfoot during intense descents.
The design features stripes that draw inspiration from the air circulation experienced during motion, capturing the dynamic energy and freedom of downhill longboarding.
SUBD Modeling
Final Design.
swiftTIGHT TECHNOLOGY FOR SECURING THE MIDFOOT
COMFORTABLE AND BREATHABLE FLYKNIT
DURABLE CARBON RUBBER THAT SERVES AS A BRAKE
WIDE TOOLING TO IMPROVE STABILITY
AIR ZOOM FOR IMPROVED COMFORT
