The Japanese start-up Ayame produces customized women’s shoes using 3D printing. The customized shoes are designed to fit perfectly and offer maximum comfort.
According to the company, Ayame uses 3D scanners to measure customers’ feet with millimeter precision. Based on the 3D data generated, Ayame then prints an individual last – a type of shoe model – for each foot. The customized shoe is then made by hand using this 3D model.
Ayame relies on Prusa 3D printers to 3D print the lasts, as these are particularly reliable, according to company president NAME Suwabe. The printed plastic lasts are robust enough to go through the shoe production process. At the same time, nails are easier to attach than with more solid models.
According to Suwabe, Ayame wants to make custom-made and repairable shoes more affordable with a subscription model. Traditionally, according to the company, customized shoes cost around 300,000 yen (just under 2,000 euros) and delivery took more than 6 months. With 3D technology, the delivery time is only 2 months and the total cost for one year is around 79,200 yen (approx. 500 euros). Repairs are also included in this period.
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