After a brief foray into the 3D shoe space for its Spring/Summer 2024 collection, Rains is back, this time with a fresh and daring design. The Scandinavian outerwear brand has once again partnered with Zellerfeld, a leader in 3D shoe printing technology, to create a striking new pair of 3D-printed mules.
A Bold New Step in 3D Footwear
The new collaboration between Rains and Zellerfeld has resulted in the creation of the Zip Mule, a chunky slip-on that is as visually striking as it is innovative. I had the chance to attend the launch party at Rains’ Soho space in New York City, where the mules were on display. The textural uppers of the mules, combined with their exaggerated, tooth-like bases, create a sculptural effect that directly nods to Rains’ signature statement zippers.
Officially available on August 14, the Rains x Zellerfeld Zip Mule uses the same advanced 3D printing technology that debuted in the brands’ first collaboration. These mules, like their predecessors, are printed-to-order, ensuring a personalized fit and feel. They are available in three distinct colorways: black, oat, and orange, each offering a unique aesthetic to suit different tastes.
Continuing a Tradition of Innovation
The partnership between Rains and Zellerfeld began with the creation of a bold, puffed-up sneaker that paid homage to Rains’ iconic puffer jackets. This sneaker quietly made its debut during Rains’ Paris Fashion Week show, quickly capturing the attention of sneaker enthusiasts and fashion insiders alike.
While 3D-printed footwear is not entirely new, it continues to represent the cutting edge of the industry. The technology behind these designs excites even the most traditional sneakerheads, offering a glimpse into the future of footwear. Major brands like Heron Preston, Louis Vuitton, and KidSuper have also collaborated with Zellerfeld, pushing the boundaries of what 3D-printed shoes can achieve.
Zellerfeld’s success is not limited to brand collaborations. Earlier this summer, the company launched a program that allows fans to design their own made-to-order shoes. This initiative not only brings customization to the forefront but also offers creators a chance to earn money from their designs.
The Future of Footwear
Through innovative partnerships and customizable 3D designs, Zellerfeld is leading the charge in bringing the future of footwear into the present. With Rains’ bold new mules, the future of shoes is not only comfortable but also incredibly dimensional. The ongoing collaboration between Rains and Zellerfeld highlights the potential of 3D printing in footwear, showcasing what can be achieved when creativity meets cutting-edge technology.
As Rains and Zellerfeld continue to explore the possibilities of 3D-printed footwear, one thing is clear: this is just the beginning. The Zip Mule is more than just a shoe; it’s a statement of what the future holds for the industry. With each new collaboration, the boundaries of design and technology are pushed further, making the future of fashion not only exciting but also undeniably tangible.
Source: highsnobiety.com
