UDRB: a modular sneaker by Kazakh Designer Daniyar Uderbekov
Almaty-based designer Daniyar Uderbekov introduces UDRB, a modular sneaker concept that integrates 3D printing with traditional Central Asian footwear references. The project explores sustainability through material reduction, disassemblable construction, and cultural continuity.
Unlike conventional glued footwear, UDRB is fully modular and dismantlable. The design allows each component to be repaired, replaced, or recycled, extending the lifespan of the product and simplifying end-of-life management. The sneaker references the makhsi or ichigi, traditional leather boots from Central Asia and the Caucasus, adapting their construction for contemporary use.
all images courtesy of Daniyar Uderbekov
Eco 3D Printed Sneakers reinterpret traditional leather boots
The sneaker is composed of three main elements: a 3D printed TPU sole, a leather inner bootie, and a climbing rope lacing system. The sole is lightweight, flexible, and cushioned, with the potential for customization to match an individual footprint. Because it is produced from a single material, it can be fully recycled. The leather inner bootie draws from the form and function of the makhsi, offering natural breathability and comfort. It can also be worn independently as indoor footwear. The climbing rope lacing, a reference to the mountain landscapes surrounding Almaty, replaces rigid hardware and allows the shoe to be secured in a lightweight, adaptable way. In assembly, the leather bootie is placed into the TPU sole and secured by wrapping the rope, creating a stable yet flexible fit.
The design emphasizes glueless construction, reducing environmental impact while enabling repairability and recyclability. Durable natural leather contributes to longevity, and the replaceable rope system further supports circular use. By reinterpreting traditional footwear through modern fabrication methods, designer Daniyar Uderbekov bridges contemporary technology with cultural heritage.
UDRB is a modular sneaker designed by Almaty-based Daniyar Uderbekov
UDRB sneaker merges sustainability, heritage, and technology
UDRB is conceived for consumers who value sustainable and repairable products, adaptable and lightweight travel gear, and design that reflects cultural identity alongside modern innovation. Its hybrid nature, combining low-tech leather craftsmanship with high-tech additive manufacturing, aligns with the principles of the slow fashion movement, presenting an alternative to disposable consumer culture.
The project also outlines potential for future development. Variations may include interchangeable soles designed for different terrains, seasonal adaptations such as insulated versions for winter, and broader material and pattern customizations. Collaboration with local artisans would further integrate craft traditions into the system. Through its modular construction, reduced material palette, and cultural grounding, UDRB proposes a design framework where sustainability, heritage, and technology operate together in a single product.
the project combines 3D printing with references to traditional Central Asian footwear
UDRB explores sustainability through material reduction and disassemblable design
UDRB is constructed without glue, enabling full modularity and recyclability
the sneaker is built from three elements: TPU sole, leather bootie, and climbing rope laces
rope laces replace rigid hardware, creating an adaptable fit
assembly places the leather bootie into the TPU sole, secured by wrapping the rope
the 3D printed sole is lightweight, flexible, and fully recyclable
each component can be repaired, replaced, or recycled to extend the product’s lifespan
the sneaker reflects slow fashion principles, opposing disposable consumer culture
project info:
name: UDRB sneakers
designer: Daniyar Uderbekov | @danikassel
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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