3D printing lets Uderbekov’s UDRB sneaker come apart without glue
Almaty designer paired an additive manufactured sole with traditional Central Asian leatherwork and a rope fastening system
Almaty-based designer Daniyar Uderbekov has released an updated version of UDRB, a modular sneaker system built around a 3D printed sole that lets the shoe be taken apart, repaired and reassembled without adhesives.
The sole was produced through additive manufacturing using TPU, which allowed its form and cushioning to be adjusted to individual foot requirements. Because the material is recyclable, the sole can be reprocessed and printed again when it wears out, rather than discarded with the rest of the shoe.
AM replaces adhesive construction
The 3D printed sole is one of three components in UDRB, alongside a leather sock-boot and a rope-and-parachute-fabric fastening system. None of the parts are bonded together, so each can be separated, repaired, replaced or recycled on its own.
The approach is used in place of the permanent adhesives common in conventional sneaker manufacturing.
Traditional leatherwork and mountaineering rope
For the inner boot, Uderbekov took inspiration from Makhsi and Ichigi, traditional Central Asian and Caucasian footwear known for flexible construction, and gave it enough structure to be worn on its own as a lightweight indoor or outdoor shoe.
The fastening system substitutes climbing rope and parachute fabric for laces, threaded beneath the sole and wrapped around the foot to secure the fit. Uderbekov selected the materials for their durability and their tie to Almaty’s mountainous surroundings.Â
The updated version refines the fastening system with additional adjustment options and improved stability, as the project moved from prototype toward production.
