portfolio
Versatile
shoes
Year 2023
Program Design Process
Timeline 12 weeks
Industry partner LaSportiva
Award TU SEI - Confindustriali Trento
La Sportiva aims to develop a climbing shoe that delivers a higher level of performance in alpine environments. The objective is to rethink key components and closure systems to enhance comfort, security, and precision under demanding conditions.
Versatile is an eco-conscious climbing shoe engineered to combine long-route comfort with technical precision. Designed for multi-pitch and sport climbing, it maintains performance over extended use.
A structured heel and refined lacing system ensure secure foot hold and accuracy, while preserving breathability and all-day comfort.
Data collection
Research combined document review and on-site observation at the Ziano di Fiemme facility, studying the production of climbing and mountaineering shoes. Reference models, TC Pro and Mythos, guided the design of Versatile, while material analysis—even of unused options—supported informed and innovative choices.
Leather
Soft and durable, treated without heavy metals to reduce environmental impact.
Used in the upper and lining to ensure comfort and a secure, supportive fit around the foot.
Eco-leather
A durable, sustainable synthetic material.
Used alongside leather in the upper to enhance foot support and ensure comfort during climbing.
Microfiber
A lightweight, abrasion-resistant synthetic material with strong long-term stability.
Integrated into the upper to enhance structure and torsional stability.
Lycra
A lightweight, elastic fabric with excellent adaptability and comfort.
Analyzed as a design reference to study stretch properties and fit, though not directly used in Versatile.
Goretex
A waterproof and breathable technical membrane, highly durable and resistant.
Studied as a design reference for climatic performance, though not directly used in the shoe.
TPU
A lightweight, abrasion-resistant material with good elasticity and protective properties.
Used in protective inserts, particularly on the laces, to enhance durability and safety.
Polyester
A strong, durable synthetic thread that maintains shape and tension over time.
Used for laces, with reflective inserts to enhance visibility and safety.
Vibram
High-performance rubber offering grip and durability, depending on the compound.
Used in the differentiated outsole: heel with XS Edge and toe with XS Grip 2 for optimal traction and stability.
Eco design
The upper combines metal-free suede leather and microfiber, offering softness, durability, and sustainability. Pull straps and rubber reinforcements are made from industrial offcuts, reducing waste while integrating high-performance recycled materials. This material strategy ensures comfort and stability during climbing, while supporting a more sustainable approach.
Mythos lacing
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Versatile reinterprets the patented Mythos lacing system, renowned for its ability to wrap the foot and adjust volume around the ankle. The system is adapted for long routes, allowing the foot to expand without pressure points while maintaining precision on technical moves. The innovation lies in combining fine adjustment, ease of use, and structural control into a single, fluid solution.