In a striking fusion of old and new, Almaty-based designer Daniyar Uderbekov presents the UDRB sneakers—a modular footwear system that eschews glue to marry 3D printing with Central Asian craftsmanship. This innovative shoe line features at its core three principal components: a 3D printed TPU sole, a leather inner boot, and a rope-and-parachute-fabric fastening system. Each element can be disassembled, repaired, and recycled, offering a sustainable alternative to typical sneaker construction.
Embracing modular design with adhesive-free shoes for sustainability and flexibility
Every pair of UDRB sneakers starts with a 3D printed thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) sole. This material allows for precise adjustments in form and cushioning tailored to individual foot needs. When the time comes, the sole can be reprocessed and reprinted, ensuring longevity and minimizing waste. The unique design of this footwear ensures that each component can be individually maintained or replaced, contributing to their sustainable appeal.
The inner boot takes inspiration from Makhsi and Ichigi—traditional Central Asian and Caucasian footwear. Known for their flexibility and protective features, these influences contribute to a boot that provides comfort and ventilation, while also being wearable as a standalone shoe.
Instead of traditional laces, UDRB utilizes a combination of climbing rope and parachute fabric, drawing a connection to the mountainous terrain surrounding Almaty. This fastening system wraps underneath the sole and around the foot, allowing for personalized adjustments and a secure fit, which further enhances the functionality of these sneakers.
Pioneering ecological footwear by Daniyar Uderbekov
Uderbekov’s innovation eliminates the use of adhesives, which streamlines disassembly and promotes recycling. The project relies on three principal materials: TPU for the sole, leather for the boot, and rope with parachute fabric for fastening—significantly reducing resource consumption. Such resource-efficient design choices are central to the concept, making them an ecological choice for consumers.
Since its initial conception, the UDRB has evolved. New improvements in the fastening system offer enhanced stability and adjustment options, gradually bringing the project closer to commercial production.
This collaboration between 3D printing and traditional craftsmanship not only champions sustainability but also poses a new model for footwear. By prioritizing maintenance, adaptation, and durability, UDRB reimagines these shoes as lasting, repairable objects.
Step-by-step assembly of UDRB modular sneakers
In designing his adhesive-free modular sneakers, Daniyar Uderbekov redefines the boundaries of footwear by blending the past’s artisanal techniques with the future’s digital advancements.
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Sources & Links
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What materials are used in UDRB sneakers?
The UDRB sneakers use thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) for the sole, leather for the inner boot, and a combination of climbing rope and parachute fabric for the fastening system.
How do UDRB sneakers promote sustainability?
The sneakers are modular and adhesive-free, allowing each component to be disassembled, repaired, and recycled. This design reduces resource consumption and waste, making it a sustainable alternative to typical sneaker construction.
What traditional footwear influences UDRB sneakers?
UDRB sneakers are influenced by Makhsi and Ichigi, traditional Central Asian and Caucasian footwear, known for their flexibility and protective features.