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How Syntilay is Transforming Footwear Design with AI and 3D-Printing

Footwear brand Syntilay is making history by manufacturing shoes powered by Artificial Intelligence and 3D printing in collaboration with Zellerfeld.
Syntilay AI footwear

Footwear brand Syntilay is making history by manufacturing shoes powered by Artificial Intelligence and 3D-printing. The brand believes that footwear creation should be made accessible for influencers and fashion newcomers. Inspired by the word scintillate, meaning to sparkle, Syntilay is all about empowering individuals to shine.

Syntilay

By utilising the power of AI-driven design and 3D-printed technology in collaboration with Zellerfeld, Syntilay is revolutionising the way shoes are made—accelerating the process by up to nine times the industry average. This breakthrough removes the traditional barriers that prevent influencers from making footwear designs and brings these visions to life. 

What is Syntilay?

Syntilay is aiming to create opportunities for designers and internet personalities to partake in the new age of footwear powered by AI design and 3D-printed silhouettes with help from German partner Zellerfeld. Read more on Zellerfeld here >>

Syntilay 3D print shoe

Syntilay was founded by 25-year-old Ben Weiss and quickly grew with guidance from industry experts, including Joe Foster, co-founder of Reebok. The company is now preparing to scale up the never-before-seen technology of AI and 3D printing in footwear for open commercial use.

Syntilay Joe Foster

Former Reebok CEO explains,

"When I introduced Reebok in 1958, sneakers weren't called sneakers, they were athletic shoes. Today, everyone wears sneakers or something influenced by sneakers". With the recent demand for "the clog or slide gaining traction, that's why we are at the forefront of what's next". Foster explains, alluding to the future of footwear design.

Is the future of footwear a slip-on, shoelace-free design?

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AI and 3D Development

The process starts by using MidJourney AI to conceptualise the shape and silhouette of the shoe, this design is later sketched by designers into a 3D. After the final shape has been created, patterns and unique textures can be incorporated using Vizcom AI and Generative AI to create a stellar look, as seen on their debut design, the Explorer model.

Syntilay Shoemakers

Syntilay footwear is made-to-order; the company uses a scan of your feet that you can capture via phone to ensure the shoes fit perfectly.

The Explorer by Syntilay is available in five colourways: black, blue, oat, orange, and red via the Zellerfeld website.

Syntilay 3D print shoe

As AI continues to revolutionise software, its impact on physical products remains largely untapped—until now. At Syntilay, we are redefining shoemaking by integrating AI-driven design with cutting-edge 3D printing technology.

The Power of AI and 3D Printing

IIn partnership with Zellerfeld, Syntilay has created the first AI-designed shoe that is fully recyclable and sweatshop-free due to the 3D printing process. This means no exploitation of workers, fair wages, and safe working conditions.

Sweatshops often involve long hours, unsafe environments, and unfair pay, and we are committed to fighting these practices. By embracing innovation and responsibility, Syntilay is at the forefront of the footwear revolution and design.3D print AI shoe

Although AI-powered programs are often criticised for their environmental impact due to the high demand for electricity and water, Syntilay is taking a step toward sustainability with its 3D-printed footwear.

Unlike traditional factory-produced shoes, which rely on mass manufacturing processes that generate significant waste and environmental strain, Syntilay’s approach utilises 3D printing technology to reduce material waste and energy consumption.

Syntilay 3D print AI Shoes

By creating shoes on demand and using recyclable materials, Syntilay is minimising its environmental footprint while pushing the boundaries of footwear innovation.

All images Syntilay


What is Syntilay?

Syntilay is a footwear brand that uses AI-driven design and 3D printing technology to create custom fitting shoes. 

What is the Explorer by Syntilay?

The Explorer by Syntilay is a model available in five colorways: black, blue, oat, orange, and red available on Zellerfeld's website. 

Can influencers and artists design their own shoes with Syntilay?

Yes! Syntilay aims to provide influencers and artists with the opportunity to collaborate on creating custom footwear.

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Grace Loyola
Grace is a multimedia designer and storyteller with an interest for fashion, culture, and sustainability.
Written Mar 27, 2025