Welcome to this week’s spotlight on an innovative footwear concept, the “ROOTS” slide by Kitty Shukman. Based in the UK, Shukman draws inspiration from a unique experience she had while walking barefoot in a forest. Let’s delve into the story behind this intriguing 3D printed shoe.
As Shukman strolled through the forest, she noticed how moss and other elements of nature gently wrapped around her feet. This observation sparked her creativity, leading her to design a slide that embodies the idea of wrapping the natural world around your feet. The result? The ROOTS slide.
To bring her vision to life, Shukman collaborated with Balena Science, a new company dedicated to creating fully circular materials. These materials are both sustainable and environmentally friendly, as they can be recycled or biodegrade without leaving any traces in the environment. For the ROOTS project, Balena Science supplied their innovative BioCir thermoplastic.
BioCir is a remarkable material. It is a flexible and fully compostable thermoplastic that reduces the reliance on toxic, fossil fuel-based materials in the fashion and footwear industries. By combining natural, easily scalable ingredients with biodegradable polymers, BioCir becomes an injectable, soft, and durable material suitable for 3D printing using filaments or mass production injection molding. At the end of its life cycle, products made of BioCir break down into carbon dioxide, water, and other naturally occurring minerals, seamlessly biodegrading and avoiding polluting our planet’s land and seas. This circular process represents a significant step towards a sustainable future.
Shukman’s creative process began with clay, allowing her to explore and refine her design. With a finalized clay model, she moved on to the next stage: 3D printing. Utilizing a Prusa 3D printer and the innovative BioCir material provided by Balena Science, the ROOTS slide took shape. The final product is a remarkable pair of slides that not only serve their purpose while being worn but also contribute to a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
The collaboration between Shukman and Balena Science showcases the potential for innovation and sustainability in the fashion and footwear industries. By combining creativity, scientific research, and cutting-edge materials, they have created a product that challenges traditional notions of footwear design while prioritizing the well-being of our planet.
We hope you enjoyed this insight into the ROOTS slide and the ingenuity behind its creation. Stay tuned for more exciting innovations in the world of fashion and sustainability.
