‘Rewilding’ Shoes Could Help Restore Nature as You Run

A creative concept named Rewild the Run proposes a 3D-printed shoe outsole that could play a role in nature restoration by dispersing seeds during runs. Created by product designer Kiki Grammatopoulos during her studies at Central Saint Martins, the outsole features small loops that emulate how certain seeds attach themselves to the fur of wild animals, allowing them to spread as the shoe is used.

Additionally, the bottom of the outsole is designed to resemble the hoof of a bison, a keystone species that helps maintain its ecosystem.

The concept operates on the principles of biomimicry, imitating nature’s techniques and processes. Inspired by seed structures like those of the cocklebur and grapple plant, Grammatopoulos designed the loops on the sides of the outsole. Velcro was initially used during testing to examine the outsole’s effectiveness in picking up and carrying seeds.

The potential benefit of the Rewild the Run concept lies in urban environments, where rewilding aims to encourage nature recovery and increase biodiversity. By mimicking the seed-dispersing function of certain animals, the shoe concept proposes to contribute to this effort. However, experts have raised concerns about unintentionally spreading non-native and invasive species through this approach. Grammatopoulos acknowledges this challenge and suggests ongoing development and refinement to address such issues.

While the concept is not yet a commercial product, Grammatopoulos hopes it will encourage people to connect with nature and explore urban greenery while raising awareness about rewilding on a smaller scale.