Artificial intelligence seems to shake up everything in its path, and the sneaker industry is no exception to this technological tidal wave. Far from being resistant, AI is gradually becoming an integral part of its processes and projects. Anticipating future trends, creating unique designs, enabling personalization, promoting eco-friendly concepts, and highlighting innovative collaboration, the AI and sneaker combo seems to work wonders. But is this genuine innovation or just a passing trend?
AI and sneakers: unique designs
Sneaker design: a task reserved for expert designers? Yes…and no. In 2024, the design of certain sneakers was imagined by both humans and AI. The Nike Air Max Algorithm, for example, was entirely designed by an AI. The result is impressive: sneakers combining a retro touch with contemporary design. Nike also showcased its AIR range, fully created by AI, at the Designboom exhibition. What makes it unique? A futuristic design combining performance and personality, honoring 13 athletes. Adidas also harnessed the power of AI to create strikingly artistic sneakers: the Adidas x DeepArt. Far from being a random choice, DeepArt is an AI specialized in transforming standard images into works of art. Note that these different sneakers were not made available to the public. They serve as prototypes to demonstrate AI’s capabilities in sneaker design.
Advanced sneaker customization powered by AI
Having sneakers fully customized to your tastes, the dream of many and a must for all sneaker addicts. With AI, this dream could become a reality. From choosing colors and materials to creating unique designs, AI could enable sneaker brands to offer highly personalized services to their customers. In May 2024, Reebok launched the “Reebok Impact” app in collaboration with the AI platform Futureverse. The concept? Users can transform their favorite photos into personalized digital sneakers. While these creations are currently virtual, all signs suggest they could become real soon.
More sustainable sneakers powered by AI
In a context marked by environmental challenges, many sectors are beginning to commit to ecological transition. However, this commitment requires numerous changes to move towards a more sustainable model. To support their ecological transition, more and more companies are turning to AI. This is mainly the case for certain sneaker brands like Puma. Thanks to AI, the group has launched a line called RE. Its unique feature? It consists of sneakers made from recycled materials, thereby reducing waste. And that’s not all: worn-out sneakers are also recycled using the same AI. Another example is the already eco-friendly brand Allbirds. Their new Tree Dashers 2.0 sneakers are made with 95% recycled materials, thanks to their own AI, EcoCompute, which they developed in-house! In addition to being trendy and stylish, these sneakers are planet-friendly with an almost zero carbon footprint.
AI serving sneakers: cutting-edge collaborations
Collectible, unique, and highly sought-after…collaborations between sneaker brands and celebrities always make waves. Recently, with the rise of AI, these partnerships have become even bolder and more technologically innovative. One standout example is the collaboration between Converse and Travis Scott. The AI Jack Purcell sneakers have a unique feature: their design changes in sync with the artist’s tracks, thanks to the power of AI. Another example is the Vans x Beeple Metaverses, sneakers showcasing exclusive patterns directly inspired by Beeple’s digital artworks. True collector’s items, these were unveiled as an exclusive and innovative concept. In a different style, the Alsatian start-up Imki, specializing in AI tool development, recently teamed up with Jonak to create the “Laces More” sneaker line, subtly blending tradition with modernity.
You’ve got it: AI is much more than just a passing trend in the sneaker world. It’s slowly but surely starting to revolutionize the industry by creating unique, on-trend models that meet new demands and environmental challenges. And this is just the beginning…
