ECCO 's "QUANT-U," the world's first commercial service to customize shoe midsoles using a 3D printer, is currently creating a buzz. A pop-up shop held at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building B1F (Men's Shoes) for about a month starting February 20th (Wednesday) immediately garnered expressions of "surprise and excitement" from leather shoe enthusiasts and media representatives. This time, Keita Tashiro of ISETAN MEN'S net and I (the author) had the opportunity to experience this cutting-edge technology, which is becoming a new trend in the fashion industry, firsthand. We report on the hidden charms behind the scenes of the impressive experience that unfolded in about 60 minutes.

To get straight to the point, the experience of having the characteristics of your feet and walking style quantified is truly unique. The comfort is also beyond imagination, truly "amazing."

With a strong commitment to the idea that "it's meaningless unless everything is done right in front of the customer," the realization of the "QUANT-U" project took approximately three years, from material selection to printer development.

Unique measurement method that mixes static and dynamic data.

First, before we get to the production of the midsole using a 3D printer, let's talk about measurement.

The process was very simple, consisting of two steps: a scan for foot shape analysis and a walk for gait analysis. What was surprising was the speed of the work. In just over ten seconds, a 3D image of my foot shape appeared before my eyes, and a professional stylist accurately explained its characteristics. The appropriate size was also pointed out on the screen, and I was amazed by the insightful analysis, such as the position of the arch and any misalignment of the bone structure, which made me think, "I see."



Next, you'll change into shoes with embedded sensor chips and undergo a 30-second gait analysis on a treadmill.

Here, your center of gravity, foot movement, twisting, the force with which you push off the ground, and the direction of your toes are all measured. Completely quantified data appears before your eyes. As far as I know, typical 3D measurements use aggregated data from multiple chips, so there are limitations to what can be measured. However, the amazing thing about ECCO is that the entire 360° is within the measurement range. You can even check the movement as if it were your own foot. Of course, here too, you receive precise feedback from a professional stylist, and you can learn about the shape and characteristics of the midsole that will be created from this measurement.




By mixing 3D scan (static) and walking (dynamic) data, the system not only ensures a proper fit but also provides a comfortable walking experience.

The quality of the leather will impress even the most discerning connoisseurs.

Once the measurements are complete, it's time to choose a color. This time, we've prepared two types of leather to choose from: "CELESTE" with a smooth texture and "OXFORD" with a classic feel, offering a total of 13 colors. Both types embody ECCO 's commitment to leather, a company that also operates as a tannery.



Upon inquiry, it was revealed that this dedication is the result of "innovation." At the annual Leather Creation Meeting, leading designers and creators from around the world gather to produce extraordinary items, from "transparent" leather and unique leathers that "change color with temperature," to environmentally conscious eco-leathers. The leather born from such innovation is a crucial factor supporting ECCO today.

It's finally finished, and how does it feel to wear...?

Once the two types of measurements and leather selection are complete, the midsole molding process finally begins. Watching your own midsole being created right before your eyes with a 3D printer is an impressive sight, and you can't help but lean forward to watch in awe.


The hexagonal honeycomb structure, made up of approximately 20 layers, varies in thickness and size for each individual. The orientation of the hexagonal vertices is determined by the direction of foot movement, a hidden mechanism that enhances propulsion.

Tashiro's foot, which experiences strong tension upon contact with the ground, was finished in a small, highly resilient hexagonal shape.



When I actually tried them on, I was surprised by the difference in comfort compared to the measurement shoes. The gap between the shoe and my foot was filled, and I felt a sense of unity with the shoe. As for walking, I felt a strange sensation of smooth movement, as if elements that would hinder my progress had been eliminated, and my feet were being propelled forward. Combined with the soft-touch leather, the comfort was incredible, especially considering I had just started wearing them.

Incidentally, I, with my small feet, managed to find a size that met the requirements (sizes 39-44 were available at this pop-up) and was able to experience the comfortable fit. Apparently, there has already been a great deal of interest from women. Whether they anticipated this or not is unknown, but it has actually been decided that the brand will have its world first permanent store on the 2nd floor of the main building, in the women's shoe section, starting in late August 2019. In addition, the men's line will be exhibited at "ISETAN Shoe Fair 2019," which will be held from September 11th (Wed) to 16th (Mon/Holiday), 2019.

These shoes are so incredibly comfortable that I honestly wish my wife could experience this feeling too.

*All prices include tax.

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Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , B1F = Men's Shoes
03-3352-1111 (main representative)
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