The sneaker world is experiencing a shift from fleeting trends to lasting innovation. While the ‘dad’ sneaker, neon hues, and sneaker-sandals have enjoyed their moment in the spotlight, sustainable materials, customization, and collaborations are shaping the future of footwear. One trend that’s been steadily gaining momentum is the ‘smart’ tech sneaker.
This journey began with Puma’s RS-Computer Shoe in 1986, a concept that has seen sporadic revivals throughout the decades. The 90s witnessed the emergence of Nike Air Max Series, Reebok Pump, and Adidas Equipment, followed by innovations like Nike Air Mag (2011), HyperAdapt 1.0 (2016), and Adidas Futurecraft 4D (2017). While initially considered a niche concept, the ‘smart’ sneaker is now moving from the sidelines to the forefront.
Adnaan Jassat, Founder and CEO of Thriller, points to the self-lacing Nike Adapt BB as a game-changer. “They may have started out as a fad, but they’ve quickly turned into a trend that’s here to stay,” he says. Seasoned sneakerhead Suhana Sethi echoes this sentiment, stating, “The advent of AI is touching everything, and sneakers are no exception. Tech sneakers have a long road ahead, but they are on that road. The popularity of cult classics like Jordans is fading, and sneakerheads are hungry for innovation. Tech collaborations are an especially exciting prospect.”
Arjun Dutta, Founder of the Shoe Factory, recalls the early days of tech integration with Nike Lunarglide+ in the early 2010s. “They had this hidden compartment for the Nike+ chip that synced with your iPod or Nike wristband to track your pace, distance, and cadence.” He’s always looking for performance advancements. “I get excited about innovations in lightweight, breathable uppers and advanced foam outsoles – they’re incredible for comfort and performance.”
Dutta cites the Swiss brand On and their revolutionary LightSpray tech as a prime example of this progress. “They’re cutting CO2 emissions by 75%, making it a serious next-gen sneaker technology.”
Sethi highlights the RTFKT x Nike Dunk as a cool tech sneaker of the moment. “The Dunk is an incredible concept – to scan a sneaker and get your NFT – it’s not just wearable art, it’s a collectable.” Jassat agrees, praising RTFKT and Nike collaborations for their unique designs, like the RTFKT x Nike Genesis 2.0, featuring customizable skins, smart-tracking features, auto-lacing, and NFT integration.
Sethi is also excited about Zellerfeld’s 3D printing tech, which she believes could revolutionize sizing in the footwear industry. “You scan your foot, and the shoe is custom-fit to your size. You can even design your own shoe and have it printed.”
Dutta believes we’re on the verge of a sneaker boom. “Brands are already teasing the future – think shoes with cooling systems or even built-in screens.” He points to Nike’s HyperAdapt, which adjusts laces based on foot pressure for a perfect fit, and Adidas 4D, utilizing Digital Light Synthesis tech and cool foam composites for running and lifestyle sneakers.
While we may not have floating shoes or heat/cooling sensors yet, the future of sneakers looks exciting. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more innovative, comfortable, and sustainable footwear solutions.
