Sneaker Freaker 'CHEECH' [Future of Footwear Award]

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Sneaker Freaker 'CHEECH'
< Future of Footwear Award >
[ WINNER ]

This is my entry to Pensole's first Future of Footwear Award. The brief was to design a Lifestyle footwear for Sneaker Freaker, based off the adidas ZX running range.

The intent is to maintain the original 90s styling with an up play on 'futuristic' materials and finishings. I incorporated aesthetic hints inspired from iconic architectural structures in Melbourne, Australia - ie the Eureka Tower and Webb Bridge.

The design tells a story of high breathability with mesh webbing on the vamp and quarter panels - suitable for those warm summer days. Overlaying the mesh is Bone White 3M reflective leather. The reflective treatment on the upper gives the shoe a 'surprising' glow when light shines on them - transforming a classic looking shoe into a head turner. Underlaying the quarter mesh is a midfoot lockdown system that is inspired by the Webb Bridge structure. The glossy white TPU heel counter is a throw back to the original design and seeks design styling from the Plymouth Roadrunner 1972 - Woody's favourite car. The toe cap and heel panel flows continuously overlaying the midsole, revealing the centre die-cut detail. The die-cut midsole reduces material used and allows you to see-thru from the sides, highlighting the essence of airflow and light-weightness. 'Icy' translucent treatment on the outsole gives the shoe a 'cool' vibe. Finally subtle hits of grenadine red accents on the shoe pays tribute to the Sneaker Freaker brand. I name this shoe after Woody's pet beagle, CHEECH - which is the main inspiration of my colour story.