Podsystem Design Talk – Engineers on Innovation

#Unveiling the P.O.D.SYSTEM Design Process

In a recent launch event in London, adidas Originals introduced their latest franchise, the P.O.D.SYSTEM. This innovative modular concept combines traditional EVA forefoot cushioning with a BOOST technology in the rear end, all connected through a Torsion-like ‚Point of Deflection‘ bridge. With the Deerupt, Prophere, and Kamanda nameplates already making waves, the P.O.D.SYSTEM is the next big thing in the world of sneakers. We sat down with Lena Groneck from the design team at adidas HQ, to delve into the process behind the creation of the P.O.D.SYSTEM and their goal of finding beauty in unconventional combinations.

#Starting with a Blank Canvas

When approaching a project like the P.O.D.SYSTEM, the design team explores various tools and methods. Lena explains that each project is unique and requires a different approach. For this particular endeavor, the team wanted to break free from constraints and limitations, embracing a more open and intuitive process. They employed a stripped-down method of creating, relying on quick and rough hands-on mock-ups inspired by the concept of unexpected combinations.

This approach allowed them to dive into the project without any preconceived notions of the final outcome. By removing themselves from the constraints of rules and limitations, the team was able to follow their instincts and let their creativity flow freely. This freedom ultimately led to the discovery of unconventional ideas and combinations that formed the foundation of the P.O.D.SYSTEM.

#Designing with Purpose

The main consideration during the design process was to create a product that deviated from their usual approach. Lena emphasizes that the team didn’t have a predetermined idea of the desired outcome. Instead, they focused on exploring new territories and allowing the project to take them in uncharted directions. Drawing inspiration from the Cushion 2, an archival design from the mid-90s, the team embraced the idea of combining different elements and materials to achieve optimal comfort and flexibility. By deconstructing and reassembling various sole components from the brand’s archive, the team arrived at unexpected and exciting combinations.

The design team understood that good design should have a reason for existence and should be linked to culture. By combining familiar elements that have emanated from adidas‘ own archive or popular culture as a whole, with something new and unknown, the P.O.D.SYSTEM reflects this ideology. It represents a leap forward in tooling construction, where different elements and materials are combined to revolutionize the sneaker landscape.

#Challenges as Opportunities

Embracing a new design process naturally brought its own set of challenges. Lena describes the project as being similar to solving a puzzle without knowing the final picture. The open-ended nature of the project pushed the team to constantly seek the next puzzle piece, sometimes finding the answer quickly and at other times taking longer to discover the right direction. But in the end, everything fell into place.

Throughout the journey, the team faced questions about how to split and combine the sole in order to provide maximum flexibility and comfort. These challenges pushed them to think outside the box and explore unconventional solutions. It required them to challenge conventional wisdom and test the limits of their creativity. By embracing the unknown, they were able to uncover innovative combinations that were both visually striking and functional.

#Revolutionizing Tooling Construction

Comparing the P.O.D.SYSTEM with previous adidas Originals highlights like the NMD and EQT, Lena emphasizes that the P.O.D.SYSTEM is all about revolutionizing tooling construction. It combines different elements and materials in a way that challenges the boundaries of creativity. The process itself led to the creation of a new creative platform, allowing the team to imagine experimental and unexpected combinations that bridge familiarity with something new.

The P.O.D.SYSTEM represents a departure from the one-sole unit approach commonly seen in previous adidas Originals designs. Instead, it brings together various components and technologies to create a truly unique and versatile sneaker. By breaking down traditional barriers and embracing innovative techniques, adidas Originals has positioned the P.O.D.SYSTEM as a symbol of their commitment to pushing the boundaries of design.

#Linking Design to Culture

For adidas Originals, the P.O.D.SYSTEM goes beyond being just another silhouette. It represents a new tooling construction that incorporates elements from both the brand’s own archive and popular culture at large. By combining the familiar and the unknown, the P.O.D.SYSTEM creates a unique connection to culture and represents adidas‘ innovative approach to design.

The designers at adidas Originals understand that great design should be rooted in culture. It should reflect and resonate with the world around it. The P.O.D.SYSTEM achieves this by combining elements of adidas‘ heritage with contemporary innovation, resulting in a sneaker that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. It stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to staying relevant and pushing the boundaries of design.

#The Future of P.O.D.SYSTEM

The beauty of the design process behind the P.O.D.SYSTEM lies in its ability to ask the right questions rather than providing immediate answers. The team at adidas Originals didn’t limit themselves, resulting in the discovery of unexpected beauty in unusual combinations. This approach opens up countless possibilities and opportunities for future iterations of the P.O.D.SYSTEM. Whether combining different eras, technologies, or backgrounds from their archive, adidas Originals has removed all limitations, allowing their creativity to thrive.

By constantly questioning and experimenting, the team will continue to push the boundaries of design. The P.O.D.SYSTEM is just the beginning of a new era in sneaker innovation for adidas Originals. With an emphasis on unexpected combinations and unparalleled comfort, the future iterations of the P.O.D.SYSTEM hold the promise of pushing the limits of what a sneaker can be.

#Conclusion

The P.O.D.SYSTEM is not just a sneaker; it’s a reflection of adidas Originals‘ commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers in design. By embracing unexpected combinations and breaking away from traditional constraints, the team has created a revolutionary modular concept. The P.O.D.SYSTEM represents a bridge between the past and the future, linking adidas‘ rich heritage with a forward-thinking mindset. As the design process continues to evolve, we can only anticipate more exciting and unconventional innovations from adidas Originals.