Editorial. Design and construction: the axes of change in footwear
Footwear is undergoing a profound transformation, leading the entire production and commercial chain to analyze its evolution in order to make the right decisions to endure.
Technological advancements and changes in habits are notably influencing this industry, where interconnected concepts such as leather-footwear-craftsmanship are making room for new forms of production and products.
The manufacturing of footwear has entered a stage of strong industrialization and diversification, with the emergence of new materials, components, and processes. This is compounded by a shortage of labor due to a cultural disinterest in trades. Consumption has also shifted, prioritizing comfort and functionality over formal and classic footwear. Thus, products with woven uppers and injected one-piece shoes have emerged, significantly simplifying productions. While we don’t believe in the disappearance and devaluation of high-quality, handcrafted footwear, it’s undeniable that their market is shrinking.
On the other hand, fashion is moving away from purely aesthetic criteria to associate with a more functional character of products. In this regard, the professionalization of design is crucial to provide the solutions that today’s consumers demand. Equally important is brand communication and positioning with content, so that the offered footwear has its own identity, allowing users to know what they are buying and fulfill their needs.
Clearly, the challenge is extensive, appealing, and stimulating to unleash the creativity needed to achieve continuity.
The Editor