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What design features did you have to consider when creating ME+U cricket shoes?
We wanted the cricket shoe to feel like a running shoe but perform like a cricket shoe. Our beveled heel absorbs impact, reducing strain on athletes' joints, while the breathable mesh upper ensures ventilation, keeping feet cool and dry. Additionally, the ergonomic design provides a snug fit, enhancing comfort and support. Key elements like the lockdown method, toe guard, and flexible sole were incorporated to meet the specific needs of cricketers, ensuring a blend of comfort, stability, and durability.
What specifically makes the ME+U Women’s cricket shoe bespoke to women's feet?
The women’s cricket shoe by ME+U is meticulously crafted to match the anatomical differences of women's feet. Typically, women have a narrower heel and wider forefoot, and our design reflects these distinctions with a custom shoe that better accommodates these dimensions. Additionally, the arch support is tailored to the generally higher arches in women’s feet, providing enhanced comfort and stability. Our cushioning system is designed to suit the lower body weight distribution, ensuring optimal support. These bespoke features ensure that the shoe fits more comfortably and performs better than unisex alternatives.
Can you please walk me through the design process for cricket shoes?
The design process for ME+U cricket shoes is thorough and athlete-focused. It begins with in-depth research and gathering insights from professional cricketers to understand their specific needs. Initial concept sketches are drawn based on these insights, followed by material selection that prioritizes durability, flexibility, and comfort. We then create prototypes to test the design in real-world conditions, focusing on factors like lightweight construction, breathability, and stability. Feedback from these tests is used to refine the design, ensuring that each iteration improves upon the last. Finally, we conduct extensive wear tests to confirm the shoe's performance before it goes into production.
Why is creating a women's cricket shoe so important?
Creating a women’s cricket shoe is vital because it addresses the unique anatomical and performance needs of female athletes. Historically, women have had to compromise with men’s cricket shoes, which can lead to discomfort and increased risk of injury. By designing cricket shoes specifically for women, we ensure a better fit, which enhances comfort, reduces injury risk, and improves overall performance. Additionally, as more women participate in cricket, providing specialized footwear promotes the sport by recognizing their specific needs.
What design aspect are you most proud of, and why?
One design aspect we are particularly proud of is the innovative use of the booty/sock construction in our cricket shoes. This feature, familiar in running and football constructions offers a snug, supportive fit that adapts to the foot’s shape, providing comfort and stability. In this construction we can choose mesh structures that promote breathability.
About Charlotte Ashton and Is That Middle
