Daily Commuter Sneaker - Designed Around Everyday Movement
Service
CLIENT
Studio Project
TIMELINE
1 months
YEAR
2026
DISCOVER
Modern city life often means moving through multiple environments in a single journey — from sidewalks and stairs to crowded public transportation and the workplace. In cities such as Jakarta, Surabaya, and Yogyakarta, commuters can spend significant periods standing, walking, and navigating unpredictable street surfaces. This led us to explore a simple question:
How can a daily shoe make urban commuting feel more effortless? The research focused on the physical demands of commuting, particularly prolonged standing, frequent walking, and changing ground conditions. Key observations Long periods of standing during public transportation Frequent transitions between different urban surfaces Walking quickly between stations, sidewalks, and destinations The need to transition naturally from commute to workplace
DEFINE
The design direction began by exploring the gait cycle and how the foot moves through each stage of walking. This study became a foundation for understanding how the sole geometry could support a more natural and efficient transition from heel strike to toe-off during everyday urban movement.
These insights were translated into early form explorations, examining sole curvature, proportions, and flowing design lines. The goal was to establish a dynamic yet comfortable silhouette that could balance the performance characteristics of a walking shoe with the versatility of an everyday commuter sneaker.
DESIGN
The final COMU design translates the earlier exploration into a cohesive commuter sneaker, balancing ergonomic performance with a refined urban aesthetic. The streamlined silhouette, layered sole structure, and dynamic geometry create a form that feels both functional and contemporary.
Designed for continuous urban movement, COMU combines a supportive sole profile, stable heel structure, breathable upper construction, and practical fastening system. The result is a versatile sneaker that moves naturally between street, transit, and everyday work environments.
DELIVER
The final COMU concept brings together the functional requirements identified during research with a refined visual language for everyday urban life. Designed to move seamlessly from STREET → TRANSIT → OFFICE, COMU balances comfort, mobility, and appearance in a single commuter sneaker.
Its final construction combines an adaptive multi-layer sole, rear rocker geometry, arch support, stable heel structure, breathable engineered mesh, quick-toggle fastening, and a durable grip outsole. The design was further explored through multiple material and color expressions.