Everybody has their favorite, go-to pair of shoes that they can always depend on for functionality and style. What is the secret formula to creating this shoe for your brand? In this article, we outline the top four elements to prioritize when designing an epic shoe. You can find the complete article on our blog: http://www.concept-21.com/blog/footwear/the-top-four-elements-that-make-great-shoes

1. HOW TO MAKE GREAT
FOOTWEAR

2. Everybody has their favorite, go-to pair of shoes that they can always depend on.
What is the secret formula to creating this shoe for your brand? We have outlined
the top four elements to prioritize when designing your customers favorite shoe.

3. FIND YOUR INSPIRATION
• Trending themes in design are consistent across various industries such
as automotive, apparel, art, and architecture
• Determine how your brand embraces these trends
CONVEY A COHESIVE DESIGN LANGUAGE
• All parts of the shoe (upper, midsole and outsole) create one cohesive
design language
KEEP IT SIMPLE
• Ten Feet away - what is the iconic simple element that captures your
attention?
• Three Feet away - what pulls you in to pick up the shoe? (texture, molded
parts or unique features).
• Touching the shoe - what convinces you to pick up the shoe, try it on and
ultimately buy it?
1. DESIGN: Less Is More

4. 2. FIT & FEEL Emotional and physical fit
FEEL
• Style Resonates with the consumer and inspires confidence
• Many women swear that 6-inch stilettos are comfortable because they
provide an emotional comfort and reflect how they see themselves.
LIMIT NUMBER OF LASTS
• Keep lasts to a minimum in order to provide a consistent, predictable fit
FIT
• The last is the most important consideration when addressing comfort
• The beauty is in the broad range of shoes that many call favorites such
as Chuck Taylors, Vans, Italian driving shoes, or Tod’s.

5. 3. PERFORMANCE & FUNCTIONALITY
FOCUS ON ADDRESSING GENERAL CUSTOMER NEEDS
• De-emphasize hard core performance because only the elite care
HIGHLIGHT THE SENSATION OF THE PRODUCT
• Create an emotional connection
BASIC FUNCTION EXPECTATIONS
• Emphasize your key features such as cushioning, traction, and breathability
• Keep it simple with 2-3 key attributes. Let the shoe speak for itself

6. 4. LOOK & VERSATILITY
Style
• Identify the key aspects that your customers resonate with the most
Simplicity Allows For Versatility
• Chuck Taylors, Nike Frees, and Dr. Martens are classic staples that have
proven the test of time.
• Focus on timeless design
• Materials and colors also play a role - mesh is more limiting than leather,
for example.