Modular Sandal System
Deft Monk - Modular Sandal System
April 2015
Carleton University 4th Year Major Project
At it’s core, the project intended to create a modular sandal system with interchangeable components, helping users get the most from their footwear. This is a something I’ve been thinking about for over a year as I saw potential for an innovative new product in the market. The sandal industry is massive, and big players such as Teva, Birkenstock, etc have been relatively stagnant for decades. In addition, there are plenty of modular footwear concepts out there, but nothing that gives the user adequate levels of support and interchangeability.
I wanted to create versatile summer footwear that would allow people to travel lighter and waste less, while providing them with an array of styles and options in one package. The MONK sandal gives users the flexibiltiy to have a secure nylon strap system, or a treaded outsole for hiking and then replace it on-the-go with a more relaxed slip-on depending on the environment or application. In more serious cases, it enables those with injuries or asymmetric foot profiles to get the level of support in each foot that they need, without having to spend hundreds on custom orthotics.
The system consists of 3 interchangeable parts, a strap system, an insole and an outsole. The innovative ‘connect the dot’ system sandwiches various strap designs between the sole components. The user helps make an even stronger and locked in connection simply using their weight.
This constantly evolving footwear platform would have updating styles, colours, and strap designs each season. It would promote collaborative projects with other artists and designers helping draw in new customers and develop a strong brand loyalty.
In an incredibly wasteful industry, the MONK sandal strives to find harmony between aesthetics, sustainability and quality. The innovative connection system uses noticeably less glue and requires few secondary processes in manufacturing. When a user inevitably wears components out, they can send this product back to Deft for future discounts. In addition, it encourages users to invest in quality materials that form to your feet over time, and allows you to continue developing this patina while replacing exhausted parts.
For the prototype, it was important to achieve a high level of fidelity, to ensure the system worked properly. The outsole is made from 3D printed rubber, while the insole is layers of water-jet cut EVA foam. Various straps were developed from leather, neoprene and nylon webbing to further test the design.”
