Wiivv Launches Crowdfunding Campaign for World’s First Digitally Mapped Sandals

March 31, 2017

This week Wiivv launched a Kickstarter campaign for Custom Fit Sandals, which it claims are the world’s first custom sandal designed and 3D printed to fit the unique contours of feet.

The Canadian company aims to transform the made-to-measure footwear market with their software and direct-to-consumer model.

“Big footwear brands still don’t grasp the fact that 14 billion unique feet need 14 billion unique solutions,” said Wiivv CEO Shamil Hargovan. “In an industry dominated by mass produced products, and offshore supply chains, we’re proud to offer one-off custom products at scale.”

The process begins with an app. Users follow instructions to take photos and measurements of their feet. More than 200 data points are mapped and processed with computer vision software. This data is used to determine optimal strap placement and 3D printed arch support for each specific foot.

This is the second 3D technology footwear product for Wiivv. Their first Kickstarter campaign for BASE Custom Insole broke records in three different Kickstarter categories and it remains the most successful 3D printed product in crowdfunding history.

“After the success of our insoles, Kickstarter backers started requesting a sandal,” said cofounder Louis-Victor Jadavji. “Flip flops are part of our summer uniform, yet traditional models are detrimental to foot biomechanics. The general market wasn’t addressing this issue, so we decided to tackle it head on.”

The sandals start at $95. So far 1,358 backers have pledged a combined $135,000 with three weeks remaining in the campaign.

“The personalization of Wiivv eliminates over-pronation, toe scrunch, and foot fatigue without compromising style,” added Hargovan. “We’re passionate believers in bringing the highest-quality, truly functional and uncompromisingly stylish custom products to people at an affordable price.”

Wiivv is based in Vancouver and has a manufacturing R&D center in California.