A blister-prevention sock
I designed a sock that reduces pain with uncomfortable shoes, integrating flexible foam padding into problem areas like the back of the heel. I led the product and visual design among a team of 4, sewing prototypes, creating drawings, conducting user testing, and developing our brand package.
Callout Poster Design (Illustrator and Photoshop).
Challenge
Breaking in new boots and loafers can cause pain and blisters, especially in high-friction areas like the heel and the toe. There’s a need for a non-disposable solution aside from band-aids.
Research
I conducted a competitor analysis of existing solutions and the consumer journey pain points they solve. Wadded-up newspaper was the only fix thick and durable enough to address the digging during long walking periods, which sparked the idea for a foam-padded sock.
Anti-blister competitors.
Each competitor’s solved pain points.
Ideation
My pitch and sketches were voted 4th of 230 product concepts, 1st of 50 products, and became 1 of 12 selected for development.
Prototyping & Testing
Now leading a team, I designed 2 rounds of user testing to identify the core user needs. I sewed the proof of concept prototype with an old t-shirt and part of a mattress topper.
I made and tested 2 more prototypes, then collected 3 insights for the final product:
1. Thicker fabric & longer heel padding
2. Stronger elastic cuff
3. Clearer art direction
Deliverables
Final poster.
Logo design on stickers.
Final prototype (side).
Final prototype (front).
Final prototype (back).