As innovative 3D products continue to emerge, it becomes apparent that the possibilities of the printing technology are endless. Now, award-winning designer Xiaoxi Shi and entrepreneur Jackie Hung are bringing something new to the table – 3D knitting. Their brand JS Shoe introduces a range of 3D-knitted lifestyle shoes, which they claim is a world first.
The formfitting, featherweight JS Shoe design is intended to offer a breathable and comfortable fit, suitable for urban commuting or an active lifestyle. The creators believe that the knitting technology presents an opportunity for a new kind of manufacturing that combines mass production with customised design.
The design process is seemingly simple. Much like 3D printing, a design is programmed into a computer and then sent to a knitting machine, which knits the shoe in a method that produces the exact amount of material for each product, leaving no waste during production.
The design omits the need for a mid-sole or stitching and is made up of just a knitted upper, an outsole and a footbed.
