A footwear brand JS Shoes has launched an Indiegogo InDemand campaign to introduce its 3D knitted shoe line, made using the award winning 3D knitting technology, which is said to eliminate most of the production waste and provide a clean, water-free, environmentally friendly process.

The company utilising Shima Seiki flat knitting machinery used a crowdfunding platform Kickstarter in 2016, when it was raising funds to meet its initial production run and raise awareness of its first ever unisex shoe line made using a sock manufacturing process. The company succeeded by raising US$ 89,199 on the original goal of US$ 50,000.

The company is now promoting its new line of shoes for both men and women, with brand new women’s model incorporating a clear sole with crystal design, inspired by A Cinderella Story, allowing for a full view of the 3D knitted shoe.

Green solution

Traditional shoe manufacturing requires plenty of production lines and hundreds of workers for the whole process. This method of shoe making raises a number of environmental concerns regarding the gluing process and carbon emission, as well as tonnes of wasted material during the cutting process.

The brand says it addresses these problems by incorporating the sock manufacturing process into the making of a lightweight, formfitting, eco-friendly and breathable shoe. The knitting machinery utilised in the production of JS Shoes involves a 3D method to produce the exact amount of materials for each shoe, eliminating the waste materials and optimising the manufacturing process by reducing manpower and increasing the automatization of the process.

Award winning

In August last year, the shoe was recognised with an IDEA bronze in USA and Good Design Award Best 100 in Japan.

“At first glance these are simple shoes with a warm feel, but they are made with cutting-edge 3D knitting technology and incorporate numerous innovations. By controlling the knitting density and shape, the shoes successfully balance durability that makes it possible to wear them countless times and a design sense with a light feel. The development of this product for the market for easy shoes, shoes for casual urban use, also provides a good feel,” the jury concluded.

Lightweight and comfortable

According to the manufacturer, the shoes are designed to embrace a modern-day lifestyle. The reduction of layers and materials makes JS Shoes extremely lightweight, with one shoe weighing approximately 4.6 ounces, which together with a comfortable design makes them suitable for long drives, casual activities, and long hours in the office. The knitted design of JS Shoes is said to help keep your feet dry with their breathable material.

The shoe design and composition also makes them flexible and easily packable –  JS shoes can be squeezed into a very compact shape taking minimum space and weight in your luggage, allowing room for other important traveling items.

www.jsshoe.com

Further reading

JS Shoe launches fully 3D knitted shoe