In this five-week workshop, students will explore the foundations of performance footwear toolings, including how midsoles/outsoles support movement, protect the foot, and create a unique performance feel. Through a combination of hands-on learning, sketching, and material analysis, participants will develop a foundational understanding of cushioning systems, traction logic, and modern midsole compounds. We’ll blend technical fundamentals with a design-driven approach, equipping students with knowledge to create a functional & visually compelling tooling concept.
who’s it for
beginner-intermediate design students and/or anyone interested in sport performance footwear design. no prior experience necessary.
goals
-overview of midsoles/outsoles in sports performance footwear
-understand the design process as applied at leading sports brands
-apply knowledge through hands on design studies (sketching, prototyping)
-create a portfolio piece (for those building towards a career in design)
what’s included
-midsole/outsole samples for analysis and prototyping
-tooling blueprint template (digital & printed)
**optional: modeling clay can be purchased externally for those
wanting to sculpt their own tooling design.
when
Thursdays March 19 - April 23, 2026
6:00pm - 8:30pm
5 weeks, 1 session per week, 2.5 hours per session
10 students maximum, in person
Limited virtual participation may be available depending on interest. Please DM or email us at hello@brooklynshoespace.com
cost
$550 per student
COURSE BREAKDOWN
week 1: the foot, movement & how a tooling works
-introduction & expectations setting
-understanding how midsole/outsole systems support movement
-general molding methods & manufacturing logic
-tooling components in modern performance shoes
assignment: select a design problem to solve and bring an existing shoe to next class that addresses your problem (actual product or images)
week 2: modern tooling studies (materials & tech)
-overview of contemporary midsole/outsole compounds (eva, pu, tpu, peba, rubbers)
-understanding midsole compound behaviors, and applications.
-midsole as brand identity and story telling
-students present their selected problem--instructor/peer feedback
assignment: create initial concept board with visual/tooling references
week 3: tooling construction, blueprint basics, start to design
-how a tooling system is constructed (midsole(s), outsole, plate(s)
-anatomy of traction patterns, sidewalls, plate placement (if applicable)
-students present their concept boards and get instructor/peer feedback.
-demo: ideation techniques (sketching, prototyping, AI tools, etc)
assignment: ideate 2+ tooling designs, (consider compounds and construction)
week 4: design process deep dive (studio session)
-presentation tips (story telling, what to highlight, how to speak to tooling in a design review/presentation).
-present initial tooling design ideas--instructor/peer feedback
-studio work time (majority of class)
assignment: refine your 1 tooling design (on provided template)
day 5: final tooling presentation & critique
-students present final tooling design
-peer/instructor feedback
-discussion on translating 2D to 3D samples
-final edits, closing reflections + next steps