In recent years, 3D printing has become a popular technology for creating prototypes and small-scale production runs. Now, a startup called Unspun is taking the technology to the next level by using it to create custom-fit jeans. And they’re getting some help from former Nike executives who believe that 3D printing can be used to reduce the environmental footprint of footwear as well.
Unspun was founded in 2015 with the goal of creating jeans that fit perfectly without the need for tailoring. The company uses 3D scanning technology to create a digital model of a customer’s body, which is then used to create a custom pattern for each pair of jeans. The jeans are then 3D printed and assembled in-house, reducing waste and allowing for a more sustainable production process.
Now, Unspun is looking to apply the same principles to footwear. The company has partnered with former Nike executives Denis Dekovic and Mark Miner to develop a 3D printing process for shoes that would allow for custom-fit footwear without the need for traditional manufacturing methods.
According to Dekovic and Miner, traditional shoe manufacturing methods are incredibly wasteful. Shoes are typically made in large quantities, with each size requiring its own mold. This means that if a particular size doesn’t sell well, the excess inventory is often discarded. Additionally, the materials used in shoe manufacturing are often not sustainable, with leather and synthetic materials being the most common.
By using 3D printing technology, Unspun hopes to reduce waste and create shoes that are custom-fit to each individual customer. The company plans to use recycled materials in its shoe production process, further reducing its environmental impact.
While 3D printing technology has been used in footwear before, it has yet to be widely adopted by the industry. However, with the help of experienced executives like Dekovic and Miner, Unspun may be able to change that.
In addition to reducing waste and creating custom-fit shoes, 3D printing technology also has the potential to revolutionize the way shoes are designed. With traditional manufacturing methods, designers are limited by the capabilities of the machinery used to create the shoes. With 3D printing, designers can create more complex shapes and structures, allowing for greater creativity and innovation.
Overall, Unspun’s use of 3D printing technology in footwear production has the potential to greatly reduce the environmental impact of the industry while also providing customers with custom-fit shoes that are both stylish and sustainable. As the technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it is adopted by other companies in the footwear industry.
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