The slip-on casual sandals were designed by Shukman and made from Balena’s BioCir™, a fully compostable and biodegradable elastomer for the fashion industry. Inspired by plant roots, the design integrates the “branches and stems” of the upper section of the slides into the outsole, mimicking the organic wrapping of roots beneath the foot. The left and right shoes have purposefully distinct patterns, enhancing the “playful notion” of roots growing organically over the feet.
“The 3D-printed slides serve as an invitation to take a deep breath and find solace in the roots that ground us,” Balena and Shukman said in a joint press release.
The slides also show the “immense potential” of its BioCir™ material in 3D-printing for sustainable footwear. The material was previously demonstrated in injection molding and extrusion.