When it comes to sports shoes, the bouncier you get, the better. Whether you’re running or playing basketball, having the shoes conserve and rebound the energy you put in every step means conserving more of your energy for other things. Of course, you also have to balance bounciness with durability, a problem that shoe designers and engineers constantly try to solve with new technologies and sometimes unusual materials.

Japanese sportswear company Mizuno has one such technology that it will be flaunting at the Osaka World Expo 2025 in April this year. More than the brand’s bold claims of bounciness and softness, the Mizuno Enerzy will probably be most remembered for its rather unusual and perhaps a little disturbing design, with soles filled with spheres that look like bubbles or some otherworldly creature. Perhaps it’s for the best that it will come in black instead of the original design.

Designer: Mizuno

Some have likened them to caviar because of their red spherical shapes, while others have compared them to eyeballs. In fact, one of the designs for these rather odd sneakers does have red eyeballs beneath the blue upper, just like Osaka Expo’s equally odd mascot, Myaku-Myaku. The similarity is just coincidental, of course, but the perfect match-up feels almost fated.

The bubbly outsole of the Mizuno Enerzy sneakers immediately conjures up images of bouncy things like balls and, well, some bubbles, which is probably the intention behind this quirky design. It’s supposed to be a shoe that promises the ultimate bounce and energy return, though funnily enough, it’s not because of those soles. Mizuno Enerzy technology, particularly the Enerzy Core, is actually found in the midsole.

Mizuno Enezy Core, according to the official marketing spiel, is the company’s bounciest and softest midsole material yet. It is claimed to be 293% softer (hopefully not a typo), and provides 56% more energy return, giving you more bounce at every step with less effort. If you indeed feel those effects, you probably won’t mind how the shoes look, especially if you gain a bit of fame from it. Unless, of course, you happen to have a case of trypophobia or a similar aversion.

The original red sole and black upper color scheme of the Mizuno Enerzy was supposed to just be a concept model meant to symbolize that bounciness. For better or worse, Mizuno has decided to actually bring the shoes to the world, though in an all-black scheme that almost minimizes the shocking impact of those small spheres. If you feel like you’re missing out on the Osaka Expo connection, however, the insoles still have that alien-like mascot, though wearing the shoes will probably make it feel like you’re stepping and squashing the poor thing.

The post Mizuno Enerzy is bringing its weird bubbly sneakers to Osaka Expo 2025 in all black first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nike is introducing the 24.7 collection as a defining moment in its approach to athleisure, positioning it as a step forward in the evolution of performance-driven lifestyle wear that merges comfort, versatility, and contemporary fashion. The sportswear giant is shifting gears, moving beyond performance-driven apparel and moving into a more refined approach to athleisure. With consumers demanding more from their wardrobes, Nike’s answer is a lineup that blends technical innovation with everyday style.

Designer: Nike

Nike

Unlike past releases that leaned into high-energy branding and performance-driven marketing, 24.7 adopts a more sophisticated direction, focusing on subtlety and versatility in its design language. The pieces are made to be worn beyond the gym, on the move, at work, or even while winding down. It is a calculated shift, signaling that Nike sees the future of sportswear as something that seamlessly integrates into daily life. And if I am being honest, I do not understand why it took Nike so long to recognize this shift. Athleisure has been evolving for years, with brands refining the intersection of sport and lifestyle, yet Nike—arguably the most influential force in the industry—has only now begun fully embracing this transition.

The Design Philosophy Behind 24.7

At first glance, the 24.7 collection doesn’t immediately resemble what many have come to expect from Nike. The oversized swooshes, aggressive graphics, and high-contrast designs that have defined many of the brand’s past collections are noticeably absent, signaling a shift in aesthetic direction. Instead, the collection embraces minimalism, tonal branding, and subtle details that feel more at home in a high-end boutique than a sports store.

This departure from traditional Nike aesthetics is not incidental but a deliberate choice to align with a more polished and adaptable approach to performance-driven fashion. The locker-loop details, internal heat-pressed tags featuring Nike’s Total Orange stripe, and muted color palette reference the brand’s deep-rooted history in sportswear while signaling a refined aesthetic.

Nike

From my perspective, this shift is a long-overdue evolution in Nike’s approach to sportswear. The emphasis on structured silhouettes, refined materials, and tonal branding marks a significant departure from the brand’s past reliance on bold graphics and oversized logos. This shift highlights the versatility Nike is pushing with 24.7, proving that performance apparel can be understated yet impactful.

These pieces aren’t confined to performance wear, nor are they purely casual. They are designed to exist in a space where movement and sophistication come together effortlessly, allowing wearers to transition through different parts of their day without compromise. The adaptability of these garments is what sets them apart, ensuring that they feel just as natural in an active setting as they do in a social or professional environment.

Nike

Nike has taken a distinct step away from its historically bold branding, opting instead for subtle imprints like the tonal Nike 24.7 logo discreetly placed on garments such as chinos. This minimalist approach speaks to the collection’s refined direction, proving that performance apparel does not need to rely on loud graphics or oversized logos to make an impact. The confidence of the design lies in its restraint.

Versatility is the priority, with structured silhouettes that emphasize precision in tailoring rather than attention-grabbing branding. This shift mirrors the rise of “quiet luxury” in fashion, where understated design and premium materials work together to create apparel meant to be worn throughout the entire day without feeling out of place in any scenario.

Fabric Innovation and Market Positioning

Nike isn’t solely relying on design to distinguish this collection, as fabric innovation plays an equally significant role in defining the overall experience of wearing these garments. The introduction of ImpossiblySoft and PerfectStretch materials marks a leap into premium technical wear.

Nike

• ImpossiblySoft: A Spacer-knit fabric with four-way stretch designed to feel effortless on the skin while maintaining structure. Found in the collection’s crewnecks, joggers, and half-zips, it creates a balance between softness and function.
• PerfectStretch: A tailored fabric engineered for movement. Used in pleated skirts, wide-leg pants, and woven shirts, it brings a refined look to traditionally sporty pieces.

Both materials use Nike’s signature Dri-FIT technology, which helps regulate moisture and temperature, ensuring that comfort and performance go hand in hand. This pairing allows the garments to maintain breathability and sweat-wicking properties while ensuring an elevated look that doesn’t compromise on mobility. Sweat-wicking, breathable, and adaptive—these fabrics allow 24.7 to blur the line between performance gear and premium leisurewear.

Nike

Nike’s messaging surrounding the 24.7 collection is carefully crafted to reflect a broader lifestyle shift. The phrase ‘From sport to life, from mindset to movement’ encapsulates the idea that athletic wear is no longer just about training or competing but is instead becoming an integral part of daily wardrobes for individuals who prioritize both performance and personal style.

Nike

The decision to feature British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith in the campaign reinforces the collection’s emphasis on adaptability. She describes the fabrics as soft and luxurious, praising the tonal branding for its refined aesthetic. For her, the pieces in this collection stand out because they seamlessly blend performance and style in a way that feels natural and effortless. Whether she’s training, traveling, or making public appearances, she needs apparel that adapts. That’s the exact ethos Nike is building into 24.7.

Nike isn’t the first brand to embrace the concept of elevated athleisure, as the market has already been shaped by key players who have blurred the line between functional sportswear and high-end fashion. Brands like Lululemon have long merged performance and luxury, while Represent has pushed technical apparel into the premium space. Even luxury fashion houses have started experimenting with sport-inspired silhouettes.

Nike

What sets Nike apart is its deep-rooted performance credibility. While other brands focus on aesthetics first, Nike builds from function. 24.7 is a response to shifting consumer expectations—clothes need to perform, but they also need to look good outside of the gym.

What This Means for Nike’s Future

Nike’s introduction of the 24.7 collection signals a long-term commitment to reshaping its approach to lifestyle and performance apparel. It hints at a broader evolution in the brand’s approach to apparel. If this collection gains traction, we could see Nike doubling down on technical lifestyle wear and expanding its Sportswear line with even more refined offerings.

Nike

That raises a few questions. Will Nike lean further into high-end athleisure? Could we see collaborations that push this aesthetic even further? More importantly, will consumers embrace this understated approach, or will they still gravitate towards Nike’s more traditional bold branding?

One thing is clear: 24.7 marks a new direction for Nike. Whether it’s a turning point or just a strategic play remains to be seen, but the brand is making it clear—performance and style no longer exist in separate lanes.

The post Nike 24.7 Marks the Biggest Shift in the Brand’s Performance Wear Yet first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple’s long-rumored augmented reality glasses, codenamed “Atlas,” continue to stir up curiosity. The idea of seamlessly layering digital elements over the real world without needing a clunky headset is an exciting one. But let’s be real, Apple hasn’t even acknowledged these glasses exist, let alone promised a launch. While Meta and Google are moving fast in the AR race, Apple’s strategy has always been about waiting for the right moment to deliver a polished experience.

If and when Apple Glasses arrive, they could reshape how we interact with technology. But the big question remains: Will they be practical enough for daily use, or just another tech fantasy stuck in development? And just as important, will they actually look and feel like something people want to wear, not just a piece of experimental hardware?

Development Status & Timeline

Behind the scenes, Apple has been experimenting with AR glasses, reportedly conducting tests in Santa Clara. The company is believed to be working on microLED technology for the displays, aiming for a lightweight, high-contrast visual experience. But developing AR glasses that balance comfort, power efficiency, and real-world usability isn’t as simple as slapping a display onto a frame.

Industry insiders suggest that Apple is at least three years away from a launch, putting a potential debut around 2026 or 2027. Apple has a habit of refining its products until they meet its strict quality standards, which is likely a key reason for the delay. In the meantime, the company is working on a lower-cost Vision Pro headset, keeping its mixed-reality ambitions alive while AR glasses remain in the pipeline.

Hardware & Design

Unlike the Vision Pro, which is bulky and meant for immersive experiences, Apple Glasses are expected to be as close to regular eyewear as possible. A pair of glasses is arguably one of the most personal accessories someone can wear, sitting directly on the face and shaping their overall appearance. Unlike a watch or a ring, which can be subtle expressions of personal style, glasses dominate the field of vision—both for the wearer and those around them.

Apple has always approached design with meticulous attention to form and function, but translating that philosophy into AR glasses is an entirely new challenge. The balance between technology and fashion will be critical—no one wants to wear a piece of tech that looks like something from a sci-fi movie.

MicroLED displays could be the secret ingredient, offering high brightness and deep contrast without draining battery life. But the real challenge lies in seamlessly embedding LiDAR sensors, eye-tracking cameras, and gesture-recognition tech into a design that remains stylish, lightweight, and wearable for long periods. These glasses need to blend into everyday fashion rather than scream “tech gadget.”

LiDAR sensors could play a crucial role in bringing Apple Glasses closer to a seamless AR experience. By enabling precise 3D mapping, these sensors allow for improved spatial awareness, object recognition, and realistic placement of digital elements within the user’s environment. This goes beyond just sharper visuals—it ensures AR feel natural and responsive, where digital elements seamlessly integrate into everyday interactions. With enhanced depth perception, Apple Glasses could support more natural and intuitive interactions, like gesture-based controls and context-sensitive applications that respond dynamically to the user’s surroundings.

These sensors function reliably in any lighting, ensuring consistent AR performance indoors, outdoors, and in low-light settings. With the potential for 360-degree vision through metasurface technology, they could eliminate blind spots, making AR overlays more precise and immersive.

Integrating LiDAR into Apple Glasses would enhance object tracking, occlusion handling, and real-time spatial mapping. If executed well, this could establish a new benchmark for AR wearables, moving Apple closer to making AR a seamless part of daily life rather than a niche technology.

Apple’s ability to merge advanced technology with premium aesthetics is what makes people obsess over their products. If Apple wants widespread adoption, it will need to create a product that looks just as natural in a boardroom as it does on a casual walk through the city. Comfort, fit, and customizability will be just as important as the tech inside.

Software, User Interface, and Ergonomics

Apple is likely adapting visionOS for the glasses, but don’t expect a Vision Pro-level interface floating in front of your eyes. These glasses will likely be more about subtle, real-time overlays—think notifications, directions, or quick-access information—rather than a fully immersive AR world.

Gesture controls and voice commands will likely play a big role, letting users interact without a touchscreen or physical buttons. We’ve already seen Apple integrate gestures into the AirPods Pro, allowing users to control playback with subtle swipes and even nod or shake their heads to respond to notifications. Imagine if Apple expands on these features for Apple Glasses, enabling users to navigate interfaces, adjust volume, or even interact with AR elements using intuitive gestures.

OpticID, Apple’s eye-tracking security feature from the Vision Pro, could also be integrated. Imagine unlocking your glasses just by looking at them. If Apple nails the UI/UX, it could be one of the most intuitive ways to interact with technology.

Ergonomics is just as crucial as functionality. Unlike smartphones or even smartwatches, glasses must fit perfectly, balance well, and remain comfortable for extended wear. The weight distribution, frame flexibility, and nose bridge design will all play a role in how these glasses feel over time. Apple has mastered product ergonomics with devices like the AirPods and Apple Watch, but AR glasses present a unique challenge—packing in sensors, displays, and batteries without making them feel cumbersome. If the company gets this right, it could be the difference between a revolutionary wearable and one that ends up collecting dust in a drawer.

Features & Use Cases

AR glasses need to be practical, not overloaded with unnecessary tech. Their success depends on simplifying everyday tasks. Here’s what Apple Glasses could bring to the table:

• Hands-Free Notifications: Read messages, check emails, and see calendar alerts without pulling out your phone.
• AR Navigation: Walking, biking, or driving directions overlaid onto your real-world view.
• Real-Time AI Assistance: Imagine pointing at an object and having Siri tell you what it is or translating a foreign language on the fly.
• Lightweight AR Gaming & Media: While full-on VR experiences are off the table, subtle gaming elements and interactive media could be included.

By focusing on useful, everyday applications, Apple has a better chance of making AR glasses an essential wearable rather than a novelty.

Competitive Landscape

The AR glasses space is heating up, with Meta, Google, and Samsung all taking their own approaches. Google Glass flopped due to its awkward design and lack of a real use case, while Meta is experimenting with AI-powered smart glasses in partnership with Ray-Ban. Apple, as usual, is waiting for the moment when the tech is mature enough to create a seamless experience.

The Vision Pro is a premium, niche product, but Apple Glasses could be positioned as something far more mainstream. The challenge is proving that everyday users actually want AR in their daily lives—and that the experience is worth the price.

Challenges & Mass Production Concerns

Even if Apple has the perfect AR experience ready to go, building these glasses at scale is another beast entirely. Some major hurdles include:

• MicroLED Production: Manufacturing these displays at scale is notoriously difficult and expensive.
• Battery Life: How do you power advanced AR features without adding too much bulk?
• Pricing: If Apple Glasses cost too much, they risk being another Vision Pro—too niche for mass adoption.
• Software Refinement: Creating an intuitive AR interface without overwhelming the user will require deep integration with iOS and visionOS.

Even with all of Apple’s resources, these problems don’t have simple solutions, and they could push the launch even further down the road.

Final Thoughts

Apple Glasses represent one of the most ambitious projects in wearable tech. With the promise of seamless AR integration in a lightweight, everyday-friendly form factor, they have the potential to change how we interact with digital information. However, the journey to that reality is filled with significant technical and logistical challenges.

Apple’s ability to create market-defining products is undeniable, but even with its resources and talent, AR glasses may take longer than expected to become indispensable. When they do arrive, will they be a game-changer or just another expensive gadget struggling to justify its place in our daily lives? That’s the question Apple will need to answer.

The post Apple Glasses: The Future of AR or a Distant Dream? first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Timex Giorgio Galli S2Ti is a watch that challenges expectations and redefines what Timex can deliver. Priced at $1,950, it positions itself as a bold entry into the luxury watch segment, signaling a departure from the brand’s reputation for affordability. This watch stands out for its premium materials, precise craftsmanship, and the bold vision that shaped its design. Designed by Giorgio Galli, Timex’s global creative director, the S2Ti represents the brand’s evolution and its willingness to explore uncharted territory.

Designer: Giorgio Galli

This watch builds on the foundation of the original S1 model, incorporating enhanced features that elevate it within the luxury timepiece market. As a result, the S2Ti is a refined expression of craftsmanship, advancing what Timex has traditionally offered. With its distinct materials and limited production, it offers something rare in the Timex catalog.

Design and Aesthetics

The fully monochrome titanium finish, combined with a sleek and polished case profile, gives the watch a refined and contemporary feel. The polished bezel provides a subtle contrast against the brushed titanium case, adding depth and sophistication. This watch doesn’t rely on ornate details to make an impression. Instead, it leans on proportion and material choices to exude quiet luxury.

Timex: Giorgio Galli S2Ti

The integration of the bracelet into the case maintains the flow of the design, ensuring that every component feels intentional. Giorgio Galli’s design philosophy is evident in how the watch balances simplicity with complexity. The soft curves of the case transition seamlessly into the bracelet, reinforcing the sense of cohesion. With restrained branding, the focus remains entirely on the craftsmanship, allowing light and shadow to define the watch’s silhouette rather than excessive detailing.

Case Construction and Materials

The Giorgio Galli S2Ti redefines sophistication, seamlessly blending contemporary design with exceptional durability. It’s crafted with a light and compact 38mm titanium case reinforced by a forged carbon fiber mid-case, ensuring both strength and an ultra-lightweight feel. The case finish features a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, creating a striking visual contrast that adds depth to its overall design.

Timex: Giorgio Galli S2Ti

Titanium’s natural hypoallergenic properties make it an excellent choice for long-term wear, while its resistance to corrosion ensures longevity. The curved lugs help maintain a comfortable fit, preventing any bulkiness on the wrist. The beveled edges catch the light, adding an extra level of dimensionality to the case. There’s an interplay between polished and matte textures that enhances the visual experience, ensuring the watch remains engaging despite its understated nature.

Anti-Reflective Sapphire Glass Crystal

A beautifully domed, anti-reflective sapphire crystal spans edge-to-edge, elegantly enveloping the bezel while leaving only the lugs exposed. Unlike conventional flat sapphire glass, this crystal subtly curves over the dial, creating a seamless transition between the case and the display. This curvature enhances the watch’s aesthetics and reduces glare, improving visibility in different lighting conditions.

The S2Ti’s edge-to-edge construction gives it a distinctive look, allowing the dial to appear as though it is floating within the case. This effect is accentuated by the lack of an external bezel, ensuring an uninterrupted visual flow from case to dial. The sapphire crystal’s anti-reflective coating minimizes unwanted reflections, making it easier to read the time from various angles without distortion.

This level of detail in crystal design is often reserved for watches at a significantly higher price point. The execution here showcases Timex’s dedication to blending premium materials with thoughtful engineering, ensuring that the S2Ti remains both functional and visually striking.

Dial and Hands

The clean and modern dial is finished in titanium satin, elevated with an impeccably polished silver-tone handset and an applied stainless-steel ring hour track that’s simply notched to mark the hours. Without unnecessary ornamentation, the applied indices and elongated hands stand out. The muted grey tone of the titanium dial creates a seamless look, harmonizing with the case and bracelet.

Timex: Giorgio Galli S2Ti

A small but significant detail is the interplay between brushed and polished surfaces on the hands, which subtly enhances contrast under different lighting conditions. Despite its understated design, legibility remains excellent, thanks to the well-proportioned hands and markers. The dial’s simplicity is what makes it striking—it doesn’t need embellishments to make a strong impression.

Titanium Bracelet with I-Size

Made entirely from solid titanium, the bracelet is designed for durability and everyday comfort. It features the innovative I-Size system, an advanced resizing mechanism that allows tool-free adjustment. This system is concealed inside each removable link, ensuring a seamless look while offering quick customization. To remove a link, users simply pull the hollowed-out outer link in the direction of the arrow and turn it, making it possible to adjust the bracelet in under a minute without special tools.

Timex: Giorgio Galli S2Ti

The bracelet is secured with a custom-designed deployment clasp and is also made of titanium, enhancing both durability and comfort. Unlike other watches that use titanium purely for aesthetic appeal, the S2Ti integrates it as a structural element that reinforces the overall build quality. The bracelet’s sleek, minimalistic design maintains a refined look while enhancing practicality, making it a standout feature that sets this watch apart from others in its category.

Swiss-Made Automatic Movement

At the core of the Timex Giorgio Galli S2Ti is the Sellita SW200-1, a Swiss-made automatic movement known for its accuracy and reliability. This 26-jewel caliber operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), delivering a smooth and consistent sweep of the second hand. The movement features a bi-directional winding rotor for efficient power generation, ensuring consistent energy delivery.

Timex: Giorgio Galli S2Ti

With a power reserve of up to 41 hours, the watch continues running even when left unworn for nearly two days. The hacking seconds function allows precise time-setting, while the hand-winding capability provides an additional way to keep the watch powered. A robust anti-shock system, using either Novodiac or Incabloc technology, adds durability, protecting the movement from impacts. The Nivaflex mainspring contributes to stable power delivery, maintaining performance over time.

Timex: Giorgio Galli S2Ti

Timex highlights this movement through a titanium case back with a flat sapphire glass exhibition window, allowing a clear view of its intricate mechanics and personalized black IP rotor. The case back is secured with six screws, reinforcing the S2Ti’s premium construction. This movement represents a blend of Swiss watchmaking tradition and modern engineering, ensuring the S2Ti meets the expectations of mechanical watch enthusiasts.

Premium Features and Exclusivity

The S2Ti is designed for everyday wear while maintaining a refined, luxurious presence. The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, enhanced with an anti-reflective coating, ensures clarity and protection against daily use. With a water resistance rating of 50 meters, it can withstand light water exposure without compromising its elegance.

Limited to just 500 pieces, the S2Ti stands out as a rare and exclusive addition to the Timex lineup. Typically, this level of exclusivity is associated with brands in a different price bracket. Collectors and enthusiasts seeking something unique will appreciate the opportunity to own a watch that isn’t widely available. Beyond its rarity, the S2Ti represents a strategic shift for Timex, demonstrating its ability to create high-end timepieces that rival established luxury brands.

“A celebration of timeless design and craftsmanship. It represents the pinnacle of the S series and a bridge to the next chapter, where my passion for watchmaking will inspire new possibilities.”

The Timex Giorgio Galli S2Ti defines a new space for Timex in the luxury market. By combining innovative materials, Swiss precision, and an elegant yet modern design, it challenges preconceptions of what the brand can achieve. It is a watch that embodies a new standard for the company.

The post Can a Timex Compete with Luxury Watches? The Giorgio Galli S2Ti Makes a Bold Statement first appeared on Yanko Design.

Syntilay has set its sights on reshaping footwear design with a product that blends artificial intelligence, cutting-edge 3D printing, and a radical aesthetic. At a glance, these slides break every convention of traditional footwear. The sculptural design, intricate texturing, and futuristic form factor signal a comfortable slip-on that represents a shift in how shoes are conceived, produced, and worn.

Designer: Syntilay

A Design That Defies Convention

The Syntilay slides are a unique entry into the foam clog category. Unlike the minimalistic silhouettes of Crocs or Yeezy Foam Runners, these shoes break the mold with their biomechanical-inspired aesthetic. Their sculptural structure is layered with intricate patterns and textures, creating a fluid, dynamic visual effect. Deep, organic grooves add a sense of movement, almost as if the material was shaped by natural forces rather than manufactured. The design blends aesthetics and functionality into a seamless form, drawing inspiration from topographical mapping and even the exoskeleton of a creature.

The open-toe structure is both functional and aesthetic, allowing for ventilation while reinforcing the shoe’s distinct identity. The exaggerated cutouts on the sides go beyond standard aeration, giving the silhouette a futuristic, almost biomechanical presence. They create visual contrast, breaking up the form and adding a sense of lightness despite the shoe’s otherwise bold stance.

Material flexibility is another key aspect. When manipulated by hand, the shoe demonstrates its softness and pliability, highlighting its comfort and ability to adapt to the foot’s natural movement. The off-white, almost bone-like color enhances its organic aesthetic, while a subtle glow hints at a possible luminescent effect or reflective properties.

The sole itself carries the same attention to detail, featuring intricate engraving and raised textures that enhance grip while reinforcing the overall aesthetic. The branding is subtly integrated into the sole, allowing the shoe’s shape and texture to take center stage. Unlike typical slides that rely on simple, smooth bottoms, this approach makes the footwear feel more integrated and purposeful.

Overall, the design speaks to a blend of futurism and nature-inspired aesthetics, merging technical functionality with artistic expression. The form is designed for aesthetics and function, delivering comfort, grip, and seamless movement, unlike conventional slides.

The Technology Behind the Design

Beyond aesthetics, these shoes are built on a solid technological foundation. The design process begins with AI-generated concepts, using MidJourney to craft the initial ideas. From there, human designer Kedar Benjamin refines these forms into standardized sketches, which are then translated into 3D models through Vizcom AI. The result is a design language that wouldn’t be possible using traditional CAD tools alone.

Once finalized, the slides are 3D-printed on demand through Syntilay’s partnership with Zellerfeld, a company specializing in additive footwear manufacturing. This method eliminates traditional assembly steps, reducing waste and ensuring that each pair is printed as a single cohesive unit. The use of TPU gives the slides their flexibility and durability, balancing comfort with structural integrity.

Customization plays a central role in this process. Instead of relying on standard sizing, Syntilay uses smartphone foot scanning technology, allowing each pair to be tailor-made for the wearer. This approach helps solve fit inconsistencies, especially for those with slight differences between their left and right feet.

The Challenge of Scaling a Futuristic Vision

Despite its technical innovation, the Syntilay slide faces hurdles in proving its practicality beyond aesthetics. The $149.99 price tag places it well above typical foam-based slides, requiring a strong justification for durability, comfort, and long-term usability. While the AI-assisted design process significantly accelerates product development, the company claims its approach “speeds up development” and can “produce a product within days.” Additionally, Syntilay states that the “entire idea-to-market process could be accelerated by a factor of 9.”

However, scaling production efficiently remains a significant challenge. Currently, production is limited to a few thousand pairs, indicating that mass production is not yet feasible. Each pair takes approximately three weeks to produce, as orders are fulfilled on-demand, further constraining production capacity. This could lead to limited accessibility if demand surges, though this is a logical inference rather than a confirmed issue.

It’s also important to note that part of this challenge stems from the product’s customized nature. Unlike mass-produced footwear, each pair is 3D printed on demand to fit the customer’s specific foot measurements. While this ensures a precise fit, it also inherently restricts large-scale manufacturing capabilities.

Additionally, while 3D printing is often positioned as a sustainable alternative to traditional manufacturing, concerns remain about the long-term durability of TPU in daily wear. Syntilay will need to demonstrate that its material choices can match or exceed the lifespan of conventional footwear to justify the premium price and ensure long-term consumer confidence.

Is This the Future of Footwear?

Syntilay’s approach is redefining shoe design. AI is now an integral part of the creative process, moving beyond simple assistance to actively shaping and refining forms that challenge conventional aesthetics. Combined with 3D printing, this fusion enables highly personalized, waste-reducing production methods that have the potential to transform the footwear industry.

But the real question is: Would you wear these? The design is bold, aggressive, and almost alien in its execution. For those who appreciate footwear as an artistic statement, this might be the perfect fusion of technology and style. For others, the unconventional form may feel too radical for everyday wear.

Regardless of personal preference, Syntilay’s AI-driven, 3D-printed slides mark an important milestone in footwear evolution. As brands continue to explore AI’s role in design, the future of shoes might not just be about what looks good—but about what technology enables us to create.

The post Syntilay’s AI-Designed, 3D-Printed Slides: A Glimpse into the Future of Footwear first appeared on Yanko Design.

Swatch and Blancpain’s collaboration evolves once again with the Scuba Fifty Fathoms Pink Ocean, a bold exploration of color and creativity. This release reimagines the iconic Fifty Fathoms in a vivid, magenta-inspired pink that demands attention. By merging Blancpain’s dive watch heritage with Swatch’s accessible design approach, the Pink Ocean transforms a classic into a vibrant fusion of technical tradition and artistic expression.

Designer: Swatch x Blancpain

Building on the popularity of earlier models like the Ocean of Storms and Blue Lagoon, the Pink Ocean carves its own niche. It’s not a subtle piece by any means; instead, it leans into its playful design to offer something both unique and conversation-worthy.

A Playful Take on a Classic Design

The 42.3mm Bioceramic case defines the Pink Ocean’s striking appearance. Swatch has chosen a richly saturated pink, leaning toward magenta, that covers the case, bezel frame, and crown in a unified aesthetic. This vivid color choice brings energy and playfulness to the watch, making it stand out in a sea of more traditional dive watches.

To add balance, the bezel insert shifts to a lighter pink tone, with its 60-minute scale filled with Super-LumiNova for enhanced underwater visibility. The contrast between these shades creates visual interest without disrupting the cohesive color scheme. This careful use of varying hues makes the watch feel thoughtfully designed rather than overwhelming or excessive.

Moving to the dial, the gradient pink surface features a subtle grainy texture that adds depth and sophistication to the bold design. Darker pink is used for the applied numerals, hour markers, and hands, which ensures strong legibility even with such a saturated color palette. The logos for Blancpain and Swatch are seamlessly integrated, while a matching pink date wheel shows the level of attention to detail in every aspect of the watch.

An Eco-Friendly Strap with Style

Adding to its vibrant appearance, the NATO strap complements the case with a striped design of alternating pink tones. Made from recycled fishing nets, the strap ties into the watch’s marine inspiration while highlighting Swatch’s dedication to sustainability. Its lightweight yet durable construction ensures comfort, whether worn during everyday activities or while diving.

The matching pink Bioceramic hardware, including loops and a pin buckle, completes the strap’s design. These elements enhance the seamless integration of the strap with the case, reinforcing the overall theme of unity and attention to detail. The strap’s environmentally conscious origins further underscore the collaboration’s modern sensibilities, making it as forward-thinking as it is stylish.

A View of the Inner Workings

The back of the Pink Ocean offers just as much personality as the front. Through the exhibition caseback, the Sistem51 movement takes center stage, but it’s not your typical mechanical view. The rotor is decorated in a pink hue, featuring a whimsical nudibranch motif that nods to the oceanic world. This small but impactful detail ties the watch back to its marine inspiration, adding a layer of storytelling to its functionality.

The Sistem51 itself is an industrially produced automatic movement, offering a generous 90-hour power reserve and operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour. Though it cannot be serviced or repaired, its design philosophy aligns with Swatch’s approach to accessibility and practicality. Surrounding the caseback are embossed phrases like “Passion for Diving” and “Protect What You Love,” reinforcing the watch’s connection to marine conservation and the importance of oceanic preservation.

Balancing Tradition with Innovation

While the Pink Ocean’s vibrant design takes center stage, it remains firmly grounded in the heritage of the Fifty Fathoms. The classic case shape, unidirectional bezel, and water resistance of 91 meters (300 feet) ensure that this watch still meets the standards expected of a dive watch. These elements provide a sense of reliability and function beneath the playful surface, ensuring that the design doesn’t compromise performance.

However, this collaboration isn’t aimed solely at purists or traditionalists. Instead, it appeals to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate design experimentation and enjoy pushing boundaries. Swatch’s influence has expanded Blancpain’s reach, offering a fresh perspective on what a luxury dive watch can be without sacrificing the foundational elements that make the Fifty Fathoms iconic.

The Intersection of Fun and Functionality

The Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms Pink Ocean exemplifies the idea that serious craftsmanship can coexist with playful design. It challenges traditional dive watch aesthetics, embracing bold colors while staying true to the functionality expected of a professional instrument. Whether it’s the vibrant dial, the sustainable strap, or the innovative Bioceramic case, every element of this watch reflects a balance between creativity and practicality.

This release goes beyond adding a fun piece to a collection—it offers a fresh perspective on dive watches. Swatch’s playful vision, paired with Blancpain’s technical expertise, creates a watch that sparks conversation and broadens the appeal of the Fifty Fathoms. The Pink Ocean invites wearers to view dive watches as tools that also reflect personality and style.

For those unafraid to step outside of traditional norms, the Pink Ocean is a refreshing take on the iconic Fifty Fathoms, proving that innovation in design can be just as important as innovation in functionality.

The post Swatch x Blancpain Scuba Fifty Fathoms Pink Ocean: A Bold Dive into Vibrant Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

With AI popping up everywhere, there’s a maddening rush of new designs and services that try to shove the technology in your face. Some try to put an “AI” label on every app or feature, while others promise some flashy, orange AI device that vanishes quickly like vapor. If you’re tired of ambitious devices that put technology ahead of human needs, or the exaggerated claims of AI companies that are more interested in user data than user experience, you aren’t the only one.

CES 2025 was filled with smart wearables and eyewear that all promise a future where computers and AI stand between you and the real world, a future where comfort is an afterthought to technical prowess. Looktech, however, is painting a different picture of the future, one where discreet and fashionable eyeglasses offer a comfortable way to “wear AI” all day, empowering you to enjoy more of life without worrying about screens, complicated user interfaces, and ridiculously large pair of spectacles that make you look like a spectacle as well.

Designer: Looktech Inc.

Click Here to Buy Now: $209 $349 ($140 off). Hurry, 45/1320 left! Raised over $975,000.

At CES!

Unlike even the most sophisticated and lightweight AR glasses, the Looktech AI Glasses look (no pun intended) nothing more like regular eyeglasses. There are no displays or projectors to burn images into your retinas, which is probably why it was initially unnoticed at CES 2025. But the moment people started putting it on to try the experience, they were easily convinced by Looktech’s vision. Rather than push a flashy design that ends up being a flop, it instead focuses on practical and fashionable eyewear that delivers a personalized AI that actually gets the job done.

Looktech AI Glasses redefine style and comfort, weighing in at a feather-light 37 grams. With their sleek TR90 frames and titanium hinges, they’re designed for all-day adventures without sacrificing an ounce of style. Choose lenses that fit your lifestyle — yes, even prescription ones at no extra cost — and colors like dark transparent, cool black, pink-white, and more, that match your mood or outfit. With a 14-hour battery life, the Looktech AI Glasses are always ready to help all day long. Why waste resources and battery life on a display technology that’s still years away from actually being useful when you can focus on a comfortable and better user experience?

Of course, the Looktech AI Glasses aren’t just some fashionable eye accessory. It comes equipped with just the right hardware and features to make life easier and more meaningful. Imagine snapping a stunning 13MP photo or recording a vibrant 2K video without lifting a finger. The horizontal video format isn’t just a favorite of YouTubers and influencers but also means that the AI sees the world the same way we do. With Looktech, a simple voice command or button press on the side does the trick, and thanks to Anti-Shake Technology, your recordings always come out smooth. And when it’s time to edit, the built-in AI video editor in the Looktech mobile app picks out the highlights, adds tunes, and throws in captions for a perfect finish.

These glasses are your new best friend, learning your quirks and preferences like a loyal sidekick. Need to set a reminder, find your way, or take a call? It’s all hands-free. The open-ear dual superlinear speakers offer rich sound without cutting you off from the world. And when you’re making a call in a bustling café or a noisy street, the microphone’s active noise cancellation and acoustic echo reduction make sure your voice comes through loud and clear.

Beyond capturing and connecting, Looktech’s camera sees signs and menus in foreign languages and whispers their translation in your ears, tracks calories, and even suggests recipes based on what’s in your fridge. This goes beyond just offering convenience. It’s about enhancing your lifestyle with a smart companion that grows alongside you, offering solutions that make everyday life a breeze. Looktech is powered by AI models from GPT-4o, Gemini, or Claude and will be constantly updated to ensure you have the latest and most reliable AI models at your beck and call.

Unlike other AI-powered devices and services, privacy is more than just a promise for Looktech. It is a guarantee that comes with these AI-powered glasses, and it is one of the top reasons why people are investing in them. Every photo, suggestion, and insight is anonymized and encrypted before it ever leaves your device. With the Looktech app, you decide what gets stored, deleted, or shared, putting you in the driver’s seat of your digital life. Feel free to explore and connect with AI, knowing your privacy is rock-solid.

The buzz around Looktech AI Glasses is undeniable. They’ve snagged the Best of Kickstarter award and turned heads at CES 2025. These glasses prove that you can have it all — privacy, style, and a personal AI assistant that doesn’t compromise on any front. So why settle for impersonal AI that treats you like a number? Looktech AI Glasses offer a vibrant, engaging experience that doesn’t just evolve with you but also looks as smart and stylish as you.

Click Here to Buy Now: $209 $349 ($140 off). Hurry, 45/1320 left! Raised over $975,000.

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The year is 2025. The political landscape, unpredictable. Your identity is your most valuable asset, so in order to protect it, you decide to take the identity of someone else. Sounds like the perfect setup for a dystopian sci-fi movie, and for the Become Anyone 2.0 Mask – a DIY project from Sean Hodgins.

The mask, created more as a fun project than a vigilante face-guard, features nearly 3000 LEDs coming together to turn your entire face into a massive display of sorts. While LED face masks do exist, none are as advanced as the one Hodgins made. Although it’s fairly low-res and low-poly, you’ve essentially got an RGB display wrapped around your face, allowing you to play videos, display text, or even apply anyone’s face as a graphic, allowing you to ‘become anyone’. DOOM? Sure. Peter Griffin of Family Guy? Why not. Tommy Vercetti from GTA Vice City? Hell Yes!

Designer: Sean Hodgins

The mask is essentially an amalgamation of 16 LED matrix panels, precisely arranged to wrap around a face. The LED layout creates a seamless grid for displaying animations, expressions, or even video loops, driven by either a PixelBlaze or Raspberry Pi controller. The ambitious goal of using only circuit boards to construct the mask’s body ensures it’s both functional and visually striking—a wearable pixel art canvas. From DOOM’s snarling faces to trippy animated patterns, this mask is as versatile as it is mesmerizing.

The design process starts with a 3D-printed template to ensure a perfect facial fit. This is crucial because any misalignment could strain the fragile solder joints when mounted to a welding helmet-style head strap. Once the fit is locked in, the technical heavy lifting begins. Hodgins is laser-focused on precision, using a stencil to apply solder paste before manually placing thousands of SK6805-1515 LEDs onto the PCB panels. If you’ve ever soldered a single LED, imagine doing that nearly 3000 times—unless, of course, you have a pick-and-place machine handy. For those attempting this project manually, consider it a test of your soldering stamina.

Once the LED placement is complete, the boards are reflowed using a toaster oven—proof that even the simplest tools can achieve incredible results in the hands of a skilled creator. The next challenge is cutting and preparing the panels, ensuring each one fits snugly into the larger mask assembly. Smoothing out the PCB edges with a belt grinder might sound aggressive, but it’s a surprisingly effective way to guarantee clean, flat joins.

The most nerve-wracking stage comes with soldering the panels together to form the full-face grid. This process requires the steady patience of a neurosurgeon. Using the 3D template as a guide, Hodgins connects each panel at just the right angle, securing power, ground, and data connections with delicate wiring. The result is a solid matrix of LEDs that’s ready for testing.

Powering the mask is no small feat either. A hefty battery feeds power through 18-gauge wiring, ensuring the mask’s energy-hungry LEDs stay lit without frying the circuits. The final touch comes in programming the animations. If using a Raspberry Pi, additional logic level shifting is required to handle the 5V LED signals. Alternatively, PixelBlaze offers a plug-and-play solution, perfect for those prioritizing ease of use over custom video playback.

For anyone daring enough to recreate this project, Hodgins provides open-source files for the PCB design and a detailed step-by-step guide on Instructables. You’ll need access to some advanced tools like a reflow oven, soldering iron, and potentially a pick-and-place machine. Patience is your most essential tool, though, as this project is as intricate as it is rewarding. But for those who succeed, the payoff is immense: a cyberpunk accessory that would fit right into the worlds of Blade Runner or Cyberpunk 2077.

So, whether you’re a DOOM fan, an electronics enthusiast, or someone who just loves the idea of turning their face into a programmable LED screen, the Become Anyone 2.0 mask is the ultimate DIY project. And hey, if you manage to build one, you might just outshine every cosplayer at the next convention—literally.

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Most of the time when we see characters on TV shows and movies wearing tinfoil hats and covering the room in tinfoil as well, we laugh at them and think they’re just paranoid, conspiracy theorists. But with what we’ve been experiencing lately when it comes to privacy, security, and even the effect of technology on our health, we can’t help but think they may have a point. We won’t go so far as to actually covering our whole house in tinfoil, but there are some products now being created to help protect people to a certain degree.

Designer: Vollebak

Vollebak is known for their future-forward clothes, particularly the advanced materials that they use for things like shirts, pants, and jackets. Normally, we just wear the latter when we’re cold or sometime even to protect us from the elements. But with the brand’s newest product, the Shielding Jacket, you can wear it to shield yourself from infrared cameras, protect yourself from bacteria and other harmful elements, and even block electromagnetic radiation. You probably will never be paranoid when you’re wearing this jacket. And since it uses the same electromagnetic shielding technology used for the Mars Rover, you can also be space ready to a certain degree.

The outer material uses a base of lightweight ripstop nylon which is then metallised with a process that uses pure silver “grown into the fabric”. This means that the silver makes up 20% of the material’s composition and is actually embedded into the fiber. Because it is electrically conductive and antimicrobial, it can kill bacteria and also reflect electromagnetic energy including radio waves, wifi, bluetooth, ku-band satellites, and radar systems. When you wear the jacket, you cannot be seen on infrared cameras. So if you’re on some kind of stealth mission, the jacket can render you invisible from these kinds of cameras with mid and long wave infrared radiation.

And if you really want to protect your phone from being hacked or tracked, the jacket has two faraday cage pockets that blocks access to your device even when it’s turned off. The pockets are on the left chest and inside the right side pocket. But there are also regular side zipped pockets with storm flaps. If you think having a jacket like this is uncomfortable, it’s actually designed just like a normal lightweight jacket with a soft polyester lining, except that it has a metallic sheen and embedded silver that can turn you into the most protected individual.

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I don’t have any specific statistics but there’s probably a certain number of accidents that have happened near campfires when pieces of clothing have caught on fire. Campers may have fallen asleep near the campfire and they end up burning their clothes or even some parts of their bodies because most of what they’re wearing are probably not fire proof or resistant.

Unfortunately, many campers are unaware that their apparel is not fire-resistant, leading to potential accidents. Snow Peak offers an innovative solution with their Fire Resistant Insulated Poncho, designed to address these concerns effectively. The Fire Resistant Insulated Poncho is specifically crafted for those who love the great outdoors. This poncho offers dual benefits: warmth and protection from the elements. Its unique design and material composition make it a standout piece in any outdoor wardrobe.

Designer: Snow Peak

Snow Peak’s Fire Resistant Insulated Poncho is exactly what its name says as it’s a poncho that you can wear when outdoors that can keep you warm but also protect you from some elements like fire. Unlike traditional jackets, this poncho ensures comfort without excessive heat, making it ideal for varying weather conditions.

Crafted from a blend of 95% polyester and 5% aramid, the poncho’s construction is both durable and functional. The polyester lining and wadding provide excellent insulation against cold weather. Moreover, the water-resistant outer shell is made from the same fibers found in firefighting suits, offering an extra layer of protection. This ensures that wearers remain safe and comfortable, even in challenging environments.

The poncho’s design includes side openings, allowing users to regulate airflow based on their comfort needs. This feature is particularly useful when temperatures fluctuate, providing flexibility and adaptability. Additionally, the integrated hood and zippered neck offer further protection from the elements, ensuring that users stay warm and dry in unpredictable weather.

For those who appreciate practicality, the poncho includes zippered exterior pockets. These pockets serve a dual purpose: providing storage space and acting as hand warmers. This thoughtful design element enhances the poncho’s functionality, making it an essential item for any camping trip. Available in three stylish colors—Black, Coyote Tan, and Olive—the poncho caters to diverse aesthetic preferences.

Incorporating this poncho into your outdoor gear collection means prioritizing safety without compromising on style or comfort. Its thoughtful design and superior materials set it apart from conventional outerwear. For anyone passionate about camping and outdoor activities, the Fire Resistant Insulated Poncho is a wise investment.

The post Snow Peak’s insulated poncho is fire and water resistant first appeared on Yanko Design.