Balena launches biodegradable 3D printed shoes with Kitty Shukman

Materials science company Balena, which develops advanced biodegradable polymer materials, has launched a 3D printed footwear collaboration with designer Kitty Shukman.

Working with Balena’s BioCir material, the first fully compostable and biodegradable elastomer for the fashion industry, Shukman has created a unique 3D printed biodegradable concept slide to demonstrate and push the boundaries of 3D printing to advance the adoption of materials that are compostable, biodegradable and durable simultaneously.

Dubbed Roots, the 3D printed slide features prongs and stems integrated across the top of the slide into the outsole, mimicking the organic wrap of roots underfoot. Shukman also deliberately designed the left and right shoes to have different characteristics to enhance the idea of ​​organically growing roots on the foot.

Commenting on the project, Shukman said in a statement: “I constantly strive to strike a balance between functionality, sustainability and style, and working with the Balena team to envision these new designs has helped me envision a day when our fashion industry becomes truly circular.

“I look forward to seeing 3D printing continue to leave its mark as a unique, bold and sustainable medium in the fashion industry on its journey to become climate neutral.”

The BioCir manufacturing process is highly scalable, explains Balena, and all products made with BioCir undergo a responsible end-of-life cycle through a biological recycling mechanism. This entails complete decomposition and biodegradation in an industrial compost facility, returning it safely to the earth, a circular process that is essential for a sustainable future.

David Roubach, founder and chief executive of Balena, added: “Partnering with Kitty to create products that are truly extraordinary and circular underscores the magic that happens when you put the right material in the hands of the right designer.

“Our combined creative visions have taken the dream of sustainable and scalable 3D printing one step further, and we look forward to seeing leading fashion brands take steps in the same direction in the near future.”