re-club

Kid’s feet grow quickly: from 1 to 10, about one new size every six months. In this context, re- club is an everyday unisex shoe for children aged 1 to 6 that is built to be easily disassembled, allowing for recycling and refurbishing to extend the product’s lifespan. The kid’s feet are a pain. They grow so fast. From 1, when a child usually starts walking, to 10, his feet will grow about one new size every six months. Considering the different weather conditions, seasons, and activities, the number of shoes per child is relatively high. So is the cost for the parent and even more for the planet. With re- club, I aimed to create a shoe model that isn’t perceived as disposable. While many focus on construction or material issues in sneakers, I realised children's footwear needed more attention. A typical shoe contains up to 40 different materials, making disassembly and recycling difficult.

Through observations, tests, and expert consultations, I developed a simple, unisex, everyday shoe with minimal parts. The upper and sole are assembled without glue or stitching, and each part can be replaced independently as it wears out. For the sole, I chose TPU, which is durable and 100% recyclable. The upper is crafted using 3D knitting technology, offering seamless, waste-free production. The design resembles a double sock, with pockets that hold the sole strips, ensuring no uncomfortable contact with the skin. Since children’s leg muscles are still developing, good ankle support is crucial. My design connects the laces from the front to the back of the shoe, providing optimal ankle support for healthy walking development. By rethinking the shoe's structure, re- club addresses both functional needs and sustainability, making it a long-lasting option for growing children.