#7) PEAK Basketball Design Concept
Designer: Raka Gemma Maulid
Shoe name: PEAK Elements
Design description: The Design is inspired by the elements, kung-fu and the concept of natural/minimalist running.
The theme “when the lights are off” I describe it as the never ending practice, drills etc. And the concept of kung-fu is to make your self stronger by enduring the pain of training (a bit similar to the concept of natural running) therefore, with the right amount of training in this shoe you will gradually make your feet stronger. This shoe is equipped with an ankle brace that’s integrated with the shoe.
Design feedback by Brett Golliff:
Definitely created an intriguing aesthetic and colorway, it is a very interesting graphic. The functionality is great and I love the way the strap wraps the whole foot. I debate whether if it should have been showcased more? Your story of training the foot while playing basketball is cool and is a good idea but I don’t know if the only way to achieve that is by making a lower midsole. That works in running shoes but would it work in basketball?
Training your foot while you play is kind of given as well because you are using your muscles but for instance barefoot running or minimal running is often used as a way to train for long distance runs, like marathons. Rarely do you see minimalist shoes being used in a marathon, so do you think your concept would be better used as a practice shoe or even a training camp shoe? Something to prepare them for the rigors of the NBA season.
Design feedback by Trung Tran:
The story behind training and strengthening the foot while playing basketball is an interesting idea. It ties in well with the concept of hard work “when the lights are off”, however, it could have been developed more. What besides the lower midsole height reflect that natural motion intent? The outsole looks cool and ties in with his martial arts inspiration, but it’s a full piece of rubber without many segmentations or flexibility. Also the straps and the TPU frame all seem to go against the original foot strengthening and barefoot training intent. Will the foot get much stronger if it’s overly supported and its weaknesses are compensated for?
He could have used the first page to explain his concept more and show a better view of how the strap wraps around the foot and how they work together.
