For my first prototype, I created a Moonshoe/skate hybrid, which I dubbed Moonskates. After going through a couple sketches like below:
I started fabricating a prototype. Firstly, I purchased a clear plastic bin from Target that serves as the holder for the shoe. I then taped an old skate shoe such that it was suspended in the bin, giving the shoe an illusion of hovering. This is similar to how Moonshoes are designed in that the footwear is suspended by elastics within a plastic container.
My thinking was that it would be a lot of fun to be able to skate and jump on a trampoline at the same, so after that, I decided to add skateboard trucks and wheels to the bottom. Conveniently, this addition allowed me to diverge from the static nature of the product.
Despite the fact that I was inspired by a combination of vaporwave, Moonshoes, and skate culture, it was challenging for me to come up with different aesthetics for this product. I added teal-patterned duct tape to the exterior of the bin to give the product a more post-modern/vaporwave aesthetic. However, that addition alone was not sufficient in providing the feel of ‘chill absurdity’ that I desired.
Moving forward, I need to explore my aesthetic choices for the project in depth. I am considering making the project entirely non-functional and placing a spray paint can in the center instead of a shoe in order to evoke the ‘feel’ of a moon shoe without actually having one. Similarly, I am considering painting the outside of the bin in a graffiti-like pattern. The whole assembly, in the end, will look like a street-artist’s paint container that has skateboard trucks on the bottom: giving a holistic impression of skate culture
I could also go forward with my Moonskates idea functionally and use snowboard bindings in the center as opposed to old skate shoes, so that feet of all sizes can fit. I am also considering using elastic bands/physical therapy bands instead of duct tape to support the footwear.
A major consideration for this project is safety. Brakes have not been integrated yet, so safety is in fact an issue. I could add rollerblade brakes to the front and back, however, braking would not be easily accomplished regardless because of the system’s elasticity.
11 Comments. Leave new
You have a nice blend of incorporating both aesthetics of the retro apps theme and the neon theme. I like that you gave thought to how much training would be required. Your ideation sketch is really cool too. I wonder how much control you will have and how safe it will be. But it looks like a great idea!
I’m a little concerned at your ability to achieve the aesthetic you’ve hinted at… the prototypes are supposed to be aesthetics-first, function-second, but this appears to be almost functional already with only the barest suggestion of an artistic approach. Considering the actual functionality is questionable given the problem of steering control and safety when you’re using both wheels and elastics, I would suggest turning your eye towards the appearance and statement of your creation. I think that has the potential to be much more successful than the actual functionality, if only you would let it sit in the front seat, as it were. Grab your aesthetic and really go for it! I’d rather you get some really stylish and crazy shoes that no one TRIES to ride rather than spend all your time going for function but end up with something no one CAN ride safely.
Very cool project! I like how much thought and innovation you’ve put into your project. You are seem very inspired by skate culture and moonshoe. A sleek, clean, wooden aesthetic wouldn’t be my first choice for this project… I would strive for a plastic/galatic look to go with the moonshoe title. My biggest concern is safety: (1) how do you secure your foot to the moonshoe? (2) how do you accelerate or decelerate? These are definitely things you need to consider for this project.
Will there be two of these? How are you incorporating the vapor wave aesthetic into the project? I like the look of vapor wave so I think it could work out well for your project if you execute it correctly. Using the therapy bands is a really cool way to mimic the Moonshoes, but will it limit the stability of your project because of the wheels?
I really like the idea of combining two products! The prototype looked great! There are some design challenges to face with the next stage, but I’m sure you can overcome them.
All the best!
You have chosen a very interesting and modern aesthetic. Combining two different products to obtain a new one is also a good idea. I’d love see you skate with your moonskates for the final review. Using duct tape as an aesthetic – I am looking forward to see how that turns out too. All the best!
I like your interest in the vaporwave aesthetic, it creates a clear path for what you want your final product to look like. The final design is filled with a lot of creativity and will be fun to use! I look forward to seeing the future developments and you using the final product to get around campus.
I like that you used skate as a source of inspiration, since it’s something that holds so much meaning for you. Turning the Moon Shoes into skates is really creative. Have you thought about using something a little more substantial than duct tape for the outer aesthetic? Maybe something that covers the bin a bit better. I think the addition of a brake would be useful as well. Maybe like an old roller skate brake? Very creative idea!
Good call using Prezi! Powerpoint is boring! Moon shoes are wicked cool! Maybe could you use some old snowboard bindings or something?
Interesting and unique mash up of skates and moon shoes. Your prototype gives a good understanding of how you will proceed with your final design.
haha, this is such a fun project! I remember seeing commercials for moon shoes back in the 90’s and thought they were too cool, but like you, never took the leap to buy any.
I wouldn’t have thought the skateboard parts would be so expensive. I appreciate that you have a very different ant unique aesthetic that you drew inspiration from.
Are the shoes inside of the bin easily replaceable/ could you pick a shoe that goes with your aesthetic?