From sky-scraping cities to the cars of tomorrow, the advent of AI technology is helping users imagine what the future could shape up to look like.
But what will we be wearing on our feet? Will the entire construct of footwear fashion as we know it today be altered?
With this in mind, leading UK footwear retailer schuh have taken a look at how artificial intelligence and its technological capabilities could mould the trainers of tomorrow.
Step into the future with these fashion-forward developments.
Current trail-blazing advancements
In recent years, trainers have come a long way from being mere functional items to complete fashion statements and enablers of athletic achievement.
Amberley Freeman, Buyer at schuh, commented on the strides (figuratively and literally) made in trainer fashion: “Recent improvements in materials, design and functionality have really upped the wearing experience for trainer fans.
“One development has been the use of smart fabrics and cushioning technologies which enhance breathability, flexibility and durability for wearers. These can adapt to the wearer’s movements, ensuring optimum comfort whether working out or simply sporting a vibe.”
While this gives us some clues about how trainers may evolve, we turned to the power of AI to help us analyse current trends, consumer preferences and tech trajectories to provide informed predictions about the trainers of tomorrow.
What will the trainers of the future look like?
Schuh asked ChatGPT what we could expect to find and summarised their findings below:
Advanced Biomechanics
Expect to see factors like biomechanical customisation where trainers are tailored to the unique properties of each wearer. This could include 3D printing technology which creates personalised insoles based on an individual’s gait and foot structure.
These may be further enhanced by adaptive ‘SMART’ materials which respond to the conditions you’re experiencing. Imagine New Balance trainers which adjust their insulation or breathability based on temperature or humidity.
Trainers with their own micro-climate? Count us in for that!
Increased sustainability
With 25 to 34-year-olds owning nine pairs of trainers on average, sustainability is a pressing concern. Fortunately, brands such as Adidas and HOFF are already making a mark, delivering the same on-trend kick in an eco-friendly way.
Expect sustainability to stay at the forefront of footwear fashion with eco-conscious fabrics such as recycled and organic cotton and sustainably harvested wild rubber.
Intuitive technology 
Over 1.4 million people use health and fitness apps such as MyFitnessPal and Strava daily. Expect this to be integrated into the trainer-wearing experience.
Imagine, for instance, augmented reality (AR) overlays that provide real-time performance feedback, guiding wearers on proper running techniques or suggesting personalised workout routines.
Or, how about trainers loaded with smart sensors that monitor heart rate and calories burned? An increased emphasis on health and well-being will likely find a way into the future trainer, aligning with modern consumer tastes.
When Nike launched their sensor kit in partnership with Apple back in 2006, fitness fanatics and technophiles alike couldn’t believe what they were witnessing. This breakthrough was a world first but, now we’re considering something so truly spectacular, and it could be right around the corner.
As our best-loved brands continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what’s possible, the future of trainers holds exciting promise.
New technology will likely bring a new blend of style, comfort and functionality with the option to build-in fitness apps and other tracking sensors to track health benefits and other stats.
Until then, lace up and walk confidently into the new era of trainer innovation.
