designed by Jonathan Mazaba
The no.stall.gic runner is an active lifestyle sneaker that balances retro running elements with current running technology. The name of the sneaker, no.stall.gic, is a play on words. "No stall" refers to the design's inspiration of constant movement and motion, emphasizing an uninterrupted, active day. Additionally, "nostalgic" highlights the retro running elements incorporated into the sneaker’s design.
Project Goal
The technology of running shoes has improved significantly since they first became popular. Modern running shoes look entirely different from those made 30 years ago. Despite advancements in cushioning, energy return, breathability, and overall technology, there's something special about the aesthetics, overlays, and materials of running shoes from the '80s and '90s that continue to appeal to people today. These retro shoes are still sold because of their iconic design. However, their outdated cushioning systems often make them uncomfortable for extended wear.
The goal of this project is to design an active lifestyle sneaker suitable for daily wear and training. This shoe will blend the nostalgic elements of past running shoes with the advanced technology of modern running footwear. It will evoke the charm of '80s and '90s sneakers while offering all-day comfort with updated tech. Additionally, it will function as a daily training shoe for road running, striking a balance between function and design. The shoe's key features will include comfort, stability, and a durable construction.
Comparable Products in the Market
The New Balance 990v6 and the Hoka Clifton L Suede are two good examples that compare to the no.stall.gic runner because they incorporate elements of retro running shoes and modern running technology. The design aesthetics of these models draw inspiration from classic running shoes, using suede overlays in the uppers for durability and style. Both shoes feature updated technology with more comfortable midsoles due to advanced cushioning systems, as well as a rocker-curved toe for a smooth transition when stepping.
Retro Running
Suede, mesh, nylon, and synthetic overlays in the uppers. EVA foam used for midsole cushioning, offering lightweight and responsive support. Rubber outsoles with flex grooves improve durability, flexibility, and traction.
New cushioning and shock absorption technologies, such as Nike Air, Asics Gel Technology, and New Balance Absorb are introduced to enhance performance and comfort.
By today’s standards, the cushioning technology of these runners are outdated. However, these iconic designs are still highly valued and continue to be sold.
Modern Running
Improvement in cushioning technology includes an increase in stack height and the use of Nitrogen-Infused TPU Foam and Pebax (Polyether Block Amide) for enhanced comfort. The silhouettes feature a rocker-shaped toe to promote a natural rolling motion. A carbon plate in performance-based shoes enhances energy return and improves running efficiency by providing a stiff, spring-like structure underfoot. Thinner and less rubber in the outsole reduces weight. Engineered mesh and knits offer greater breathability, durability, and flexibility, with minimal overlays in the uppers. Knit and mesh patterns in the upper create design patterns, with curves and line accents representing speed and flow.
Nike Atomknit, Nike Air Zoom, ZoomX, New Balance FuelCell, and Asics Engineered Mesh are examples of innovation in modern running shoe technology.
Research
Always on the go, people never stop. Inspired by the motion blurs of daily life, I designed this active lifestyle sneaker to capture that constant movement. The sneaker features elements of motion blur and a "blur of the past" with its retro running design. The shoe is also functional for all day comfort of the constant movement that someone does, whether it’s walking, running errands, going to work, going to school, or working out.
Design Inspiration
Durability
Problem
Solution
Today's running shoes often wear down on the outsole. The problem is that some shoes don't use durable rubber in high-impact areas. Although everyone's stepping patterns differ based on foot shape, these two heat maps show where most of the impact occurs for the average person.
The solution is to use a combination of carbon rubber and blown rubber. Carbon rubber, being much more durable, will be placed in high-wear areas identified by impact heat maps. Blown rubber, which is lighter, more flexible, and offers better cushioning on impact, will be used in other areas. By using both types of rubber, the shoe achieves durability and flexibility with every step.
Solution
Problem
Stability
While a high stack height of cushioning makes the shoe extremely comfortable, it can compromise stability. Overpronation occurs when there isn't a good balance of firmness and cushion, leading to various issues such as ankle sprains, knee pain, shin splints, and plantar fasciitis.
To reduce overpronation, the solution is to incorporate two types of foams in the midsole. The lower layer will be a denser, firmer foam, while the upper layer will be a more cushioned, bouncy foam for comfort. This combination provides greater stability and comfort, allowing the user to wear the shoe for extended periods. For the upper, a heel counter will lock the foot in place, and TPU reinforcements throughout the midfoot will help prevent ankle sprains. Additionally, a wider midsole will offer a broader base to distribute impact and weight more effectively.
Solution
Problem
Comfort
Wearing a shoe all day can make the foot feel sore if the shoe is uncomfortable. A heavy shoe can cause tiredness in the legs. If the shoe lacks breathability, it can heat up the foot, leading to soreness. Stiff materials in the upper without padding can create blisters and pain points from tightness and rubbing. Lastly, a flat midsole with no toe spring requires more energy to plantarflex with each step, adding to fatigue.
The solution for making the shoe comfortable involves using durable yet lightweight materials to ensure the sneaker lasts long without causing fatigue. Incorporating panels in the upper with open mesh and holes for ventilation will keep the foot cool. The shoe design should be adjustable with laces, allowing TPU reinforcements in the upper to wrap tighter around the midfoot when the laces are tightened, providing a customizable fit. Adding sufficient padding to areas prone to blisters and pain points will enhance comfort. Designing the midsole with a rocker shape, featuring both toe spring and heel spring, will improve the ease of transition from heel strike to toe-off. With these features, the shoe will be comfortable for all-day wear.
While the design aims to combine elements and aesthetics of retro and modern running sneakers, functionality remains the top priority. The focus is on durability, stability, and comfort.
Opportunities
Ideation
Silhouette Shape
Rocker-shape silhouette with a toe and heel spring to improve the ease in transition from heel strike to toe-off.
Midsole
The shoe features two density foams: a bouncy top layer for cushioning and energy return, and a firmer bottom layer for stability. The outsole is made of rubber for durability.
Paneling & Overlays
Panels and overlays provide a retro running aesthetic while ensuring breathability, support, and comfort through well-thought-out placement.
Side View
medial side
Top View
Outsole
Rear View
Final Design
Final Orthos
Functional Callouts
Material Callouts
Bamboo fabric liner: soft, durable, breathable, anti-bacterial, eco-friendly
Premium pigskin suede: soft, lightweight, durable
Cowhide suede: durable, soft, firmer for stability
PEBAX foam: soft, bouncy, energy return cushion, comfortable
EVA foam: firmer, durable, stability, reduce overpronation
Blown rubber: flexible, lightweight, cushioning, grip, impact absorb
Carbon rubber: durable, traction
Cotton & Polyester blend laces: soft, flexible, comfortable, durable, resistant to abrasion
TPU reinforcements: flexible, durable, lightweight, support
Polyester open mesh: durable, breathable, moisture wicking
Padded liner for comfort
Heel counter for stability
PEBAX foam for comfort and energy return
Firmer EVA foam to reduce overpronation
Exposed foam in areas where rubber is not needed to reduce weight and increase flexibility
Blown rubber to absorb impact during landing, improve flexibility when stepping, and provide excellent grip
Carbon rubber for durability in high impact areas
Mesh tongue for breathability
TPU reinforcements for midfoot support and lockdown when laces tighten
Mesh panels for breathability
Mudguard/quarter overlay for toe protection and midfoot support
Holes for ventilation
Overlay for midfoot stability
Wide midsole for stability and balance
Grooves to enhance grip and flexibility
Multi-directional tread to provide grip
Blown rubber to absorb impact during landing, improve flexibility when stepping, and provide excellent grip
Carbon rubber for durability in high impact areas
Heel spring to promote a more natural rolling motion of the foot
Toe spring to promote a more natural rolling motion of the foot
Color
I chose the colors red and blue because they often convey speed and motion. Dynamic reds represent vibrance and energy, while blues evoke a sense of rapid movement and fluidity.
Final Colorway
Final Color Orthos
Final Color Orthos
Poster
The no.stall.gic runner is an active lifestyle sneaker with a balance of retro running elements and current running technology. The design is inspired by the constant motion around us and the nostalgic blur of the past.
designed by Jonathan Mazaba
Final Render
