Re:Move

Cosa fa?

Re:Move is a modular footwear system using mono-materials and a mechanical connection to eliminate adhesives. Components can be exchanged, repaired, or customized, promoting circularity, longevity, and conscious consumption, without compromising on aesthetics.

La tua ispirazione

The idea for Re:Move arose from observing the unsustainable structures of today’s footwear industry. Most shoes are glued, multi-material constructions that are nearly impossible to repair or recycle. Fast fashion and trend pressure drive overconsumption, leading to massive post-consumer waste. Re:Move responds with a modular, repairable, and recyclable system that rethinks how shoes are designed, used, and valued — offering a more conscious and circular alternative.

Come funziona?

Re:Move is a modular shoe system made up of three main components: outsole, midsole (connector), and upper. Unlike conventional shoes that are glued together, Re:Move uses a mechanical locking system to connect these parts without adhesives. This allows each component to be easily separated, repaired, replaced, or recycled. – The midsole features integrated slots and locking channels, into which reinforced straps from the upper are inserted. – These straps are secured by the structural tension between outsole and upper when assembled. – A refined click-fit mechanism ensures a tight, durable connection between parts. – All elements are made from monomaterials (mainly TPU and polyester), ensuring full recyclability. The result is a shoe that can be disassembled without tools, supports circular design, and still offers the comfort and usability of conventional footwear.

Processo di progettazione

The idea behind Re:Move was to create a modular shoe that functions like a regular everyday shoe while subtly revealing its construction. The goal was a simple, user-friendly design system where different uppers and soles can be combined without adhesives – fully detachable and recyclable. The process began with hand-built mock-ups and digital modeling in Rhino. Various locking mechanisms were tested to find the right balance between stability and usability. A snap-fit system was developed, visible only upon closer inspection along the outer sole edge. The sole was 3D-printed in TPU with a sealing lip to reduce gaps. Uppers were made from mesh materials and reinforced with 3D-printed PETG elements, heat-pressed directly into the fabric. Iterations refined the fit, especially around the toe and instep, and improved key components like the closure system. Two shoe types emerged – a sneaker and a simplified sandal – both using the same modular base. Re:Move shows that sustainable, modular footwear can be technically smart, visually appealing, and ready for everyday use.

In che modo è differente?

Most modular shoe systems focus on a single model with interchangeable parts, but they often remain limited to variations within one shoe type – without allowing for a broader diversity of styles. Re:Move takes modularity a step further: it enables not just the replacement of components, but the transformation of the entire shoe type. From sneaker to sandal – all using the same core elements. This not only supports personalization, but also encourages more conscious and resource-efficient consumption. At the same time, the system holds great potential. It creates space for a wide range of upper and sole designs that can be freely combined. The result is not just a shoe, but an open platform for future-oriented, adaptable footwear design.

Progetti per il futuro

My future plans include refining the modular system further and designing additional shoe models to form a cohesive collection. I aim to continue developing and testing the concept in greater depth, with the goal of making it viable for the market. Through ongoing iteration, the system could evolve into a scalable, functional, and aesthetically compelling solution for sustainable footwear design.

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