Zima: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation in Footwear Design

Saman Sabbaghi's Award-Winning Design Merges Persian Craftsmanship with High-Tech Materials

The inspiration for Zima came from the traditional handcrafted footwear, Giveh, which has been a significant source of income for various ethnicities in Persia. Sabbaghi saw an opportunity to redesign this product to suit the tastes of modern societies, thereby promoting its business and export potential. He combined cultural elements, technological advancements, and high-tech materials to create a unique, revenue-generating product.

Zima, which means 'Walk on the Earth', is a sustainable footwear design featuring a cork composite shoelace and a nano fabric for the upper part. The design process incorporated Artificial Intelligence to create a new form based on the old Giveh and main ergonomic features. Furthermore, the final package can be used as a shoe rack, and all products will be minted as NFT (Non-fungible token) sneakers in the Metaverse, adding a futuristic touch to this traditional craft.

The production of Zima involves two main methods. The first is the creation of the cork composite shoelace using a 'Direct Injection Plastic Mold' process, with a combination of 96% cork granule and 6% PU (Polyurethane) to strengthen the sole part. The second is the weaving of the upper part, a process known as Giveh-Baafi, traditionally done by rural women for decades.

For the visual elements and forms, Sabbaghi used Artificial Intelligence beta (Midjourney). The main keywords were given to the AI based on the project's goals, and then they were edited and modified through doodling and sketching. The process of 3D-modeling and rendering was completed based on the standards of Foot anthropometry.

Despite the challenges of working with Artificial Intelligence beta (Midjourney) and understanding the tastes of customers through cultural, market, and sociological research, Sabbaghi successfully created a product that is not only eco-friendly but also appealing to a wide range of customers. Zima is a testament to the power of innovation in preserving and enhancing traditional crafts.

In conclusion, Zima is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the potential of integrating old and new techniques in product design. It is a shining example of how designers can contribute to sustainability while also honoring cultural heritage. With its unique features and award-winning design, Zima is set to make a significant impact in the world of footwear design.