BASECAMP MULE
RE-IMAGINE the iconic Nuptse mule through a Spring/Summer lens: Building on authentic DNA of The North Face with the focus on 365 wearability. Obsess on an “Apres” solution that will complete our runners’ and hikers’ post-activity kit but also appeal to street wear enthusiasts with iconic design cues that are undeniable The North Face.
Inspiration
DIAPHANOUS LAYERING: Material construction and detailing focused around being lightweight. Elevating translucency and transparency through layering of materials to create a visual package that highlights structure, construction, and breathability.
TONAL TEXTURING: Subtly highlight materials and their attributes by building the illusion of simplicity. Details emerge upon closer inspection and will subside when in motion of viewed from afar.
QUILTING CONJURED: Trompe l’oeil “deceives the eye”; to play on the notion of quilting and debossing by building said details within the construction of the materials used to make the uppers.
Initial Exploration
A new mule footwear design focused around sustainability that would incorporate eco-friendly materials and production processes, as well as a consideration for the social and environmental impact of the product throughout its lifecycle.
Initial Design Direction
This round of designs established a visual read of translucency, layering of materials, and form. Iconic brand blocking through materials and colors.
Direction Refinement
Minimalistic design: The design of the mule footwear could be kept simple and timeless, reducing the need for frequent replacements due to changes in fashion trends.
Direction Finalization
Use of eco-friendly materials: The mule should be made using sustainable materials such as recycled plastics, organic cotton, or plant-based materials. Durable construction: The mule should be constructed using high-quality, long-lasting materials to reduce waste and ensure that the product lasts for as long as possible. Comfortable fit: The mule should provide a comfortable fit and support for the foot, with cushioning and arch support where necessary.
Versatile design: The mule should be versatile enough to be worn in a variety of outdoor settings, from hiking to camping to beach outings. Minimalist design: The mule should have a simple and timeless design that reduces waste and is easy to pair with different outfits.
Market Release
The breathable and super-comfortable unisex Base Camp Mule is perfect for warm spring and summer days. But it’s more than just the ultimate lounge shoe for base camp and beyond; it’s also The North Face’s first shoe to incorporate principles of Circular Design. Made with fewer parts and materials, the Base Camp Mule was designed so that consumers can return it to the company when they’re done with it. It will be disassembled and the components will be recycled. To reduce the use of cardboard, orders of just this pair of shoes will be shipped in the original shoebox without an additional outer cardboard box.
Specs
Tangible comfort: To create step in comfort that can be visually communicated. How to construct a molded footbed that visually perceive cushioning and comfort by experimenting with unique construction methods while maintaining a underlying focus around sustainability.
