Hek Lab, a footwear-focused design studio working with additive manufacturing, has unveiled the EDDY model, a 3D printed shoe created specifically for everyday wear. The project responds to ongoing hesitation among consumers toward 3D printed footwear, which is often linked to unfamiliar materials, elevated pricing, long production timelines, and experimental aesthetics.
Developed in collaboration with 3D printing footwear company Zellerfeld, the EDDY represents a shift from conceptual experimentation toward a commercially viable, daily-use product. The shoe is designed around a natural foot form to deliver a lightweight feel while maintaining stability and comfort for everyday walking.
“Inspired by nature & the human experiences created in it, Hek Lab is an exploration of circular footwear concepts through 3D printing. Often more question than answer, the design ethos of Hek Lab is to deliver something unexpected, rather than more of the same,” stated Zellerfeld.
Additive Manufacturing and Material Innovation
The EDDY shoe is produced on demand using Zellerfeld’s proprietary AM technology. The footwear is printed using ZellerFoam, a Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) developed specifically for 3D printed shoes. Manufactured as a single, monomaterial structure, the shoe eliminates the need for stitching or adhesives, supporting recyclability and material reuse in line with Zellerfeld’s sustainability goals.
Functional performance features include a herringbone-pattern outsole designed to provide reliable traction across a range of surfaces, as well as an open lattice upper that enhances airflow and flexibility. Raised sidewalls are incorporated to help protect the foot in wet conditions.
The EDDY model became available on December 11, with a retail price of $149.
Expansion of Zellerfeld’s 3D Printed Footwear Portfolio
Recent collaborations highlight how Zellerfeld’s technology is being applied across fashion and luxury markets.
This month, Justin Bieber’s fashion label, Skylrk, debuted its first 3D printed sneaker, the Earth Bender, in a Lilac colorway at the brand’s temporary Tokyo pop-up—its first-ever physical retail space. The design reflects Skylrk’s signature aesthetic, combining comfort-focused shapes with bold, expressive colors and a constantly evolving silhouette. Inspired by soccer cleats, the sneaker features an overturned tongue and sculptural, futuristic lines. An additional Oat-colored version was available for try-ons exclusively at the pop-up.
In July, Hugo, a sub-label of Hugo Boss, released a loafer-style shoe developed with Zellerfeld. Produced as a single unit using the company’s proprietary software and hardware, the HUGO FORWARD x Zellerfeld model eliminates traditional sizing, assembly, and inventory requirements. The result is a custom-fitted shoe manufactured within hours and designed with circularity in mind.
Zellerfeld also worked with designer Sean Wotherspoon—known for his use of unconventional materials and focus on sustainability—to introduce the Sean Double U collection, featuring a sneaker and a mule. Both pieces are produced in one piece without adhesives or stitching, underscoring the environmental benefits of additive manufacturing.
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Featured image shows EDDY, a Nature-Inspired 3D Printed Shoe. Photo via Zellerfeld.
