The future of footwear design & lasts: Do we now really need them?

Abstract

The term last comes from the Old English, “laest,” which means barefoot. The last is an important tool used in the footwear making process. It defines the 3D footwear shape, influencing fit, feel, and comfort. It helps stabilize components during the assembly process. Despite the importance of well-fitting footwear, more than 43 million Americans experience foot pain due to poorly fitting shoes. So, if the footwear last is an important tool for making shoes, and it is a depiction of the barefoot, then something is not adding-up. Is there an opportunity to revolutionize a process that was created 1000’s of years ago? This position paper will review last creation, methods of make, and insights from industry experts, to suggest criteria for the development of a new athletic footwear making process.