Last week, we had an inspiring meeting with three departments of SINTEF, one of Europe’s leading research institutes, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for New Movements and our community. This milestone brings us one step closer to pushing circular footwear even further.
We’re grateful to have strong partners and a supportive community walking with us on this journey. Over the next few years, we’ll be collaborating on a long-term research and tech project alongside experts in health, advanced manufacturing, 3D printing and sustainability. Together, we aim to develop a new type of shoe – a shoe that is:
– 3D printed locally,
– Recyclable, and
– Designed to support long-term health in everyday life.
Why this matters
Footwear production, which hasn’t changed significantly for decades, contributes to around 1.4% of global climate emissions. Traditional shoes are made from a mix of materials, produced in distant factories, and are difficult to recycle. Beyond the environmental cost, most shoes are not made with our individual physical needs in mind. Musculoskeletal disorders are a leading cause of long-term sick leave, especially for people who are on their feet all day. Yet footwear remains standardised, with a one-size-fits-all solution to a deeply personal need.
We believe it’s time for a better approach. That’s why we would like to:
– Offer 3D-printed shoes tailored to your foot
– Use a single, recyclable component
– Construct each shoe as a single piece – no glue, no stitching
– Offer a slip-on design that is easy, efficient and body-friendly
– Reduce lead time and carbon footprint
This is just the beginning, but with a successful pilot behind us with SINTEF and trusted partners by our side, we’re entering this next phase with confidence and excitement.
Want to know more? Write to us at info@newmovements.ch.