Dezeen Magazine

3D-printed shoes by Recreus scrunch up to fit into pockets

These shoes are 3D-printed using flexible, durable filament so they can be folded up and stuffed into a pocket or bag (+ slideshow).

3D-printed shoes by Recreus scrunch up to fit into pockets

Designed by Ignacio Garcia of Spanish 3D-printing firm Recreus, the Sneakerbot II shoes are printed with the company's Filaflex 1.75-millimetre filament, which comes in a range of metallic colours and matte hues.

3D-printed shoes by Recreus scrunch up to fit into pockets

This elastic filament forms a rubbery, waterproof material that is bendy and retains its shape after being scrunched up.

3D-printed shoes by Recreus scrunch up to fit into pockets

The shoes can be printed on a MakerBot using a custom extruder also designed by Garcia, which prevents the elastic filament becoming tangled during the process.

3D-printed shoes by Recreus scrunch up to fit into pockets

Sole and upper are printed in one piece, then the tongue is attached to the front of the shoe. Holes for threading the laces through are incorporated into the print file.

3D-printed shoes by Recreus scrunch up to fit into pockets

Chunky faceted forms around the bases of the high-top trainers create a Futurist appearance.

3D-printed shoes by Recreus scrunch up to fit into pockets

This design builds on the original Sneakerbot model, which has smoother surfaces that look more like running shoes.

3D-printed shoes by Recreus scrunch up to fit into pockets

The files for both designs are available to download for free from MakerBot's Thingiverse website.

3D-printed shoes by Recreus scrunch up to fit into pockets

Others experimenting with 3D-printed footwear include fashion designer Iris van Herpen and sports brand Nike, which have both used the technology to create shoes. Also, 3D-printing company Cubify has launched a range of women's shoes that can be printed overnight at home.