Together From Last Design to Serial Product
Shoe development is an exciting process in which every detail has to be carefully thought through. From the initial design of the last to the final production, various steps are necessary to ensure a high-quality shoe.
The idea for a custom shoe model can arise for many reasons—perhaps you have an innovative design concept, a specific target audience in mind, or want to solve a problem that no existing shoe has adequately addressed. However, fundamental questions often arise quickly:
- How do I put my idea onto paper?
- Which materials are best suited for my shoe?
- How is a prototype created?
- How can I bring my vision into mass production?
Bringing a shoe model into serial production requires precise planning and coordination across design, manufacturing, logistics, and sales. Every step, from product development to market strategy, must be carefully managed to ensure a successful product that meets high standards in both quality and efficiency.
The International Shoe Competence Center (ISC) is here to guide you through each phase. Together, we will find the answers to these and many other questions to bring high-quality shoes to life according to your specifications and requirements.
Shoe development requires a great deal of expertise, experience and attention to detail - you can rely on us for that!
Every shoe project starts with a vision. But how does an idea become a finished design?
We are here to support you:
Our team supports you in the creation of sketches and renderings that visualise your idea. We pay attention not only to an appealing design, but also to practical feasibility and the respective market requirements.

2. Materials and Construction: Thinking Sustainably, Executing with Quality
Choosing the right materials and constructing the shoe correctly are crucial steps. The key questions are: Which materials match the desired properties? How can durability, comfort, and performance be optimised?
Sustainability in Focus:
We attach particular importance to sustainable materials and environmentally friendly production methods. This enables us to develop shoes that are not only functional and stylish, but also contribute to protecting our planet.
Functionality and Sustainability:
We support you in the selection of materials and ensure that your shoes fulfil the requirements for sustainability and quality in equal measure. We use physical and chemical tests in our laboratories to check the properties of the materials used.
3. Prototyping: Making Your Idea Tangible
A crucial stage in development is creating a prototype. This step determines whether design, materials, and functionality work in harmony.
We are here to support you:
Our International Shoe Competence Centre Manufactory offers the opportunity to produce prototypes that not only test the aesthetics but also the technical feasibility. From the first model to fine-tuning, we accompany you on the way to series production.
On this basis, we create shoes that are not only fashionable and functional, but also offer maximum comfort and durability. We are happy to support you in the realisation of your shoe development with our expertise.
The first step is to develop the last on which the shoe is based. Factors such as fit, comfort and design are taken into account. The upper material is then selected and cut to achieve the desired look and durability.
Development
With state-of-the-art software for 2D shank development (Procam, Jevero) or 3D sole designs (Rhino) and rapid prototyping such as 3D printing for outsoles as mockups (Maquette), we can transform your vision into tangible concepts.

Development Shank (upper part of the shoe):
- Last copy
- Creation of the basic model
- Digitisation of the basic model
- Detailing of the shank pattern (templates)
- Provision of digital data
- Grading

Development Outsole:
- 2D renderings
- 3D CAD data with Rhino
- 3D printing of the outsole - marquette or rapid prototype
- Adaptation of design and functional modules before investment in mould construction

4. The Road to Mass Production
Bringing a shoe model into production requires meticulous planning. From manufacturing to logistics, every process must be seamlessly coordinated.
We are here to support you:
We help you prepare your shoes for the market. With our expertise in design, manufacturing, and quality control, we ensure that your product not only looks good on paper but also succeeds in the marketplace.
Conclusion: Together for the future of your shoes
The journey from initial concept to finished product is exciting but comes with many challenges. ISC is here to help turn your vision into reality—with expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Do You Have an Idea for a Shoe Project?
Get in touch with us, and we will discuss the next steps together!
ISC – Training and Research
In addition to contract footwear development, we conduct numerous research projects in the field of footwear and orthopaedic technology.
You can find these in our Blog.
