Additive Manufacturing Methods in Australian Rules 
Football Footwear:
An In-Depth Analysis of the Effects of Additive Manufacturing 
Processes and Digital Analytical Technologies on Athlete Performance
Bryant J. Jimenez
Sports Product Design Program, University of Oregon
Dr. Susan Sokolowski
Table of Contents
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING METHODS IN AUSTRALIAN RULES
FOOTBALL FOOTWEAR: ..........................................................................  I
PHASE I: RESEARCH................................................................................1
Introduction.............................................................................................................  2
Professional Interests...............................................................................................  2
Personal Strengths ............................................................................................. 2
Mentors ............................................................................................................  3
Product Classification ................................................................................................ 4
Sport History ...........................................................................................................  4
Environment ............................................................................................................  8
User - Target Athlete Demographic............................................................................9
Market Size.......................................................................................................  9
Positional Needs..............................................................................................  10
Jobs to be done ..............................................................................................  10
Biomechanical Needs .............................................................................................. 11
Drop Punt Kick | Check Side Kick ...................................................................... 11
Additional Factors involved in Kicking Sequence ................................................  13
Physiological Needs................................................................................................. 14
Body Structure ................................................................................................. 14
Maximal Oxygen Uptake................................................................................... 14
Muscular Endurance ......................................................................................... 15
Speed and Repeated Sprint Ability .................................................................... 15
Psychological Needs...............................................................................................  16
Pre-Game .......................................................................................................  16
In-Game .........................................................................................................  17
Post-Game......................................................................................................  17
Product Anatomy ...................................................................................................  17
Upper .............................................................................................................  18
Midsole ...........................................................................................................  18
Soleplate ........................................................................................................  18
Last Form .......................................................................................................  19
Product Landscape.................................................................................................  19
Competitor Landscape SWOT Analysis ..............................................................  21
State-of-the-Art Materials ........................................................................................ 22
State-of-the-Art Manufacturing................................................................................ 22
Rules and Regulations............................................................................................. 23
Intellectual Property................................................................................................ 25
Product Trends ......................................................................................................  28
Color Trends ...................................................................................................  28
Graphic Trends ...............................................................................................  29
Branding Trends .............................................................................................. 30
Athlete Questionnaire.............................................................................................. 30
Performance Testing ..............................................................................................  34
Proof of Concept Presentation ................................................................................. 35
BIBLIOGRAPHY .................................................................................... 36
Phase I: Research
Fall 2021
Introduction
For some time now, 3D printing has been used for footwear prototyping, a process that 
allows footwear professionals to craft test shoes before making their final products. In 
recent years, however, additive manufacturing technologies have become productive 
and cost-effective enough to be applied mass-scale in the footwear market, with this 
mode of manufacturing currently making up approximately 0.3% of global footwear 
market revenues, a figure that is set to rise to 1.5% of overall global footwear revenues 
by 2029. (SmartTech, 2019). As modern sports companies integrate these advanced 
technologies, some sports fall through the cracks and receive little to no attention. A 
prime example is Australian Rules Football [AF], the country's largest professional sports 
competition (Nicholson, 2021). Modern-day AF players are engaged in more frequent, 
high-intensity sprint efforts for more extended periods, with the ability to sustain 
performance across these intermittent, high-intensity activities being a paramount 
priority of the modern, elite AF player.
This research explores how we could apply these advancements in digital analytical 
technology, additive manufacturing, engineered lattice structures, and thermoforming 
processes to enhance AF boot design by creating a three-boot lineup that tackles the 
positional needs of Ruckman, Center-Forwards, and Rovers.
Professional Interests
My goal is to innovate within the product development process and improve athlete 
performance while redefining the boundaries of sport. Additive manufacturing is one of 
those innovations that has plenty to offer the footwear sector, and I aim to employ 
those qualities in my product intervention. I hope to translate the gathered athlete’s 
feedback and data on their needs, into performance benefits as Australian Football and 
its athletes continue to evolve.
This capstone project will embody everything the Sports Product Design program has 
instilled in me and a glimpse of what I can achieve in the industry. I will showcase how I 
design functional footwear interventions using a data-driven approach and learn how 
innovations in other industries can be implemented into footwear. Working in 
conjunction with my mentors, who are active in the industry, will help me put into 
practice skills that professionals value and seek in teammates at these larger companies
Personal Strengths
Strengths are partly like a talent, partly like a skill. They can be improved and applied 
when relevant; nonetheless, they are the core toolbox for accomplishing goals. The top 
strengths I identify with are Achiever, Analytical, Activator, Ideation, and 
Deliberativeness. Some of these are more pronounced than others at different stages of 
projects. As we move forward with the thesis project, these strengths will help me 
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accomplish a distinguished capstone that highlights my professional goals. Using my 
Analytical and Ideation strengths will help me innovate in a direction that is well 
informed and explores multiple approaches to a solution. My Achiever and Activator 
strengths will aid me in connecting and forming a plan of attack for the different 
checkpoints over the subsequent terms, helping me complete tasks with a strong work 
ethic. Lastly, my deliberative strength will help me reduce risks and prevent problems 
through innate anticipation and careful thought.
Mentors
To better guide my research and design process, I will have a series of mentors advise 
me throughout the capstone project. These mentors will consist of various active 
members of the footwear or aligned industries. Currently, the team consists of two 
titular mentors: Nathan Schultze and Cesar Idrobo, with further mentors to be added 
depending on the stage of the capstone project.
Nathan Schultze is currently a footwear Designer at Women’s Jordan and has previous 
experience with the Nike Innovation (NXT) and Nike Sports Wear (NSW) Running teams. 
Cesar Idrobo is the Head Pattern and Sample Maker for Footwear at Adidas’ Yeezy.
Meetings will occur bi-monthly with each mentor to develop concepts, refine research, 
evaluate prototypes, and validate ideas.
Bryant Jimenez 
Tue 11/16/2021 11:13AM
To: nathan.schultze@nike.com
Hey Nathan,
After going back and forth with you about my project for such an extended time, would you be wiling to be one of my mentors 
for the duration of my thesis? It’d involve meeting ideally once a month to update you on my progress and to get you'd design 
input going forward, I'm thinking close to an hour a session, but might increase closer to March.
Best,
Bryant
Reply | Forward
Schultze, Nathan <nathan.schultze@nike.com> * d <2 «) -> -
Wed 11/17/2021 1:29 PM
To: Bryant Jimenez
Hey Bryant,
I'd totally be up for helping you with your thesis, I remember those senior projects are a lot to take on. I think we should 
schedule meetings for twice a month instead though, because the 3d upper and lattice concept will need a lot of constant 
work. Let's shoot for sometime after Thanksgiving to set up the exact dates forthose meetings
Cheers, 
Nate
Image 1 Mentor e-mail confirmation from Nathan Schultze
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Image 2 Mentor e-mail confirmation from Cesar Idrobo
Product Classification
Footwear & Last Shapes, Football, Australian Rules
Sport History
Australian Rules football (ARF/Footy) has been played for over 160 years. Originating in 
Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, the code is the most popular winter sport (Marshall , 
2019). Australian Football's first appearance in Melbourne in 1858 pre-dated the formal 
organization of soccer, rugby league, and American Football, giving it eminence 
(Richardson, 2011). The game quickly became popular amongst the different boroughs 
of Melbourne, where schools organized weekly competitions on unused cricket grounds. 
Spreading to the surrounding cities of Melbourne: Geelong, Notts Country, Stoke City, 
Carlton, and Nottingham Forest in that order (Blainey, 2010).
Thomas Wentworth Wills has the honor of being the game's pioneer and earliest umpire, 
who in the off-season of cricket in 1858 organized a famous scrimmage between 
Melbourne Grammar and Scotch College (Pascoe R. , 1995). In the city of Melbourne, 
these were the two best-known secondary schools; news of the proposed match 
reached the newspapers, and, on Saturday, August 7, 1858, The Melbourne Morning 
Herald reported the match (Blainey, 2010). The match between the schools has become 
4
folklore, but it frames Australian rules football as a once-only invention; instead, it was 
an evolution of Gaelic Football amongst the youth of Australia. Just when secondary 
schools were becoming absorbed in Gaelic Football, young men and late teenagers were 
organizing matches which were to have more substantial effects on the development of 
Australian Football (Blainey, 2010). About a month before the notorious match, Thomas 
Wills had written a letter to the headmasters of Melbourne Grammar, asking for the 
organization of an off-season football team to keep cricketers in shape during the winter 
(Marshall , 2019).
The modern-day variant resembled and gained much inspiration from early Cricket, 
Gaelic Football, and Rugby forms. Almost at once, it was a distinctive game. So quickly 
did it move in its own direction under its own momentum, and so often did it devise or 
adopt rules and tactics that, within twenty years, it was far removed from the older 
rugby and new soccer and was still changing (Blainey, 2010). The resemblances of in­
game traits were traced back to Thomas Wills, who ported over various attributes from 
the European competitions. Wills, as a youth, was sent to England to attend Rugby 
School, the birthplace of its' namesake football code, Rugby (Pennings, 2021). 
Particularly during his time in England, he became renowned for his ability in cricket, 
which proved to be pivotal for the sport. His desire to retain physical form during the 
off-season of cricket led to early versions of Australian football taking place across 
Melbourne upon his return to Australia in 1856.
Prior to his time in England, another outstanding inspiration that tied the game to 
genuine Australian culture was Wills' experience with Marn Grook—having lived in the 
early settlements of Lexington, Victoria, where he grew up with numerous aboriginal 
children, learning their language and, more importantly, their games for passing the 
time. Marn Grook, white European colonists, described a game featuring high kicking 
and leaping for a ball. 'The ball is kicked high in the air, not thrown up by hand as white 
boys do, nor kicked along the ground; there is general excitement who shall catch it’ 
(Flanagan, 2008). The parallels to Marn Grook helped shape the unique forwarding 
system that quickly set it apart from the other football variants of the time.
Alongside Thomas, Thomas Henry Smith, William Josiah Hammersly, and James Bogue 
Thompson met to draw up a code of rules for the Melbourne Football Club on May 17, 
1859 (Collins, 2011), proving to be the sport’s first official milestone. The next 
significant jump came later the same year when the rules were amended to outline 
scoring criteria and announce the formation of several clubs within the city. This trend of 
constant rule amendments continued through the 1860s, where the most significant 
change came in the way of player contracts.
5
Prior to the 1860 season, players were not confined to any one club, a loophole 
notoriously seized by the Richmond club to field numerous stars from non-competing 
teams for their matches and tactic that won them two of the inaugural premiership 
titles. The dawning of the season 1866 saw the first published leaguewide code of rules,
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Footballer of 1880 (Pascoe & Pennings, 2019 )
which were adopted at a meeting of delegates from the principal clubs held in May 
(Power, 1875). A field requirement between goals expanded to 200 yards, along with 
instituting a bounce rule that regulated the distance a player could carry the ball without 
dribbling. The latter caused havoc, as previously players would adapt the rugby practice 
of tucking the ball under the arm and running to goal; the rule change outlined the need 
to bounce the ball every five or six yards to eliminate this practice.
Adding to its uniqueness Australian Football developed the mark, the same year as the 
field and bouncing statutes, more commonly known as a ‘fair catch,’ the rule allowed a 
player who caught the ball cleanly before it touched the ground to claim a ‘free kick,’ the 
right to kick the ball unimpeded by his opponents.
In 1877 the Victorian Football Association was established, where the stouter and 
financially backed clubs dominated the game. This trend lasted nearly two decades until 
6
1896, when half of the clubs, including six of the strongest, seceded and formed the 
Victorian Football League (VFL) (Keenan, 2012). With its inaugural season, it brought 
several innovations, including a finals tournament and a formal establishment of a 
scoring system, in which six points were awarded for a goal and one point for a behind. 
The league quickly established itself as the premier competition in Victoria. It took 
nearly 40 years for the league to expand, from a nine to a twelve-team system in 1925. 
This era of VFL saw Collingwood set the standard as the only team in AFL history to win 
the premiership four consecutive times. The Melbourne team dominated during the 
following two decades, contesting a record seven straight grand finals from 1954 to 
1960. At this time, perhaps one of the most distinctive divergences from English Football 
occurred in the lack of the offside rule (Pascoe R. , 1995). This lack of offside allowed 
attacking players to advance beyond the ball-carrier, and their opponents, at will and 
without restriction or penalty.
During this time, the league also opted not to allow games to be televised, as the league 
saw a steep decline in crowd turnout during the 1957 trial season, as well as building 
the first dedicated VFL mega stadium in Melbourne in 1970 to gain independence from 
the Melbourne Cricket Club that owned the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) (Keenan, 
2012). The hiatus from televised games ended in 1965 as many former players became 
commentators on pre-game preview programs and post-game review programs to the 
nation's ever-increasing audience. Nevertheless, it was not until the 1980s that there 
was a regular timeslot of VFL matches on Fridays, a tactic championed by North 
Melbourne. In 1986 the most significant merger in the sport took place, the unification 
of the Western Australian Football League, the Queensland Australian Football League, 
and the Victorian Football League, which in 1990 was renamed to the Australian Football 
League.
Image 3 The Victorian Football League's Previous Logo and Current Australian Football League 
Emblem (Australian Football League, 2021)
The league followed suit with many other world sporting organizations and signed a 
Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Australian Football League Players' Association 
(AFLPA). Since then, the league has added several expansion teams in Queensland, Gold 
Coast, and Western Sydney raising the league to an 18-team system. A national 
women's league followed suit in 2017, marking the most modern development to the 
AFL structure and history.
7
It became evident that Australian Rules was no longer a football variant but a genuine 
Australian invention; it captivated the whole continent and produced one of the utmost 
unique sports in modern athletics.
Environment
The arena of play that this paper will focus on will be the Melbourne Cricket Ground 
(MCG), regarded as Australia's premier sporting venue; the 'G' has played host to the 
country's prevalent cricket and Australian Rules Football matches, and many other 
significant sporting contests for over one hundred years (Cricket365, 2015). It was, in 
fact, even the centerpiece of the Olympic Games of 1956 (Pascoe & Pennings, 2019 ). 
Built in 1954, the MCG holds a capacity of 90,000 fans and hosts day and night
competitions.
Image 4 Crowd sings national Australian anthem prior to starting the 2018 Grand Final in the Melbourne Cricket 
Ground (MCG) (globetrekimages, 2018)
8
The pitch itself is in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; it is an oval field that is 165m long by 
110m wide. The pitch includes four goalposts at the east and west ends, with 50m lines 
arching at each end (Australian Football League, 2021). The center is marked by a 5m 
circle within another 50m wide box (Tatz, 1983).
Due to the sport taking place during the Australian winter, temperatures vary from 6.5 - 
14.2°C (43.7 - 57.6°F) for the grand final (Stern, 2008). The MCG is also a natural grass 
pitch that is hard-packed firm ground due to the lack of rain during the winter months. 
The humidity sustains a constant threshold of 50-62% due to Melbourne’s proximity to 
the southern side of the equator (Stern, 2008). Although humidity is higher than 
average, rain is scarce during this part of the year
User - Target Athlete Demographic
The target athletes are elite Australian rules football players, 22-27 years old, across 
three key defined positions, Forward, Follower/ Rover, Ruck/Ruckman, who play in the 
premiership (Division 1) of the Australian Football League.
Market Size
There are 18 AFL clubs with approximately 40 players on each team's list; thus, 
approximately 720 professional AFL players in Australia. Another estimated 5,407 senior­
level participants in other semi-professional club football leagues across Australia 
(Munro, 2019). Expanding to the world view, Australian football leagues have sprouted 
in numerous countries across the African, Asian, and Oceanic regions of the world.
Leading to a further global estimated total of 921,439 registered participants that are 
playing Australian Football as of 2020, placing it behind cricket (1,311,184) and soccer
9
(1,188,911) (Commission, 2020). Participation continues to rise due to increasing 
support in western Sydney and a significant increase due to booming female 
participation brought on by the introduction of the AFLW (Commission, 2020).
Positional Needs
Australian Football, the most popular football code in Australia, is a contact sport played 
by two teams of 18 players who contest play over four 20-minute quarters; the game's 
object is to score the most points through goal kicking. (Flanagan, 2008)
An interview was conducted with former Australian Football academy player and current 
University of Oregon Punter, Tom Snee, to better understand the positional distinctions, 
needs, roles, and identification methods. His insights proved extremely valuable in 
ascertaining the positional targets of this research and gaining insight into how their 
footwear solutions might be better adjusted.
Forwards
This player style requires increased accuracy as they are often the leading goal 
scorers, using short bursts to accelerate past defenders and clear space to take a 
shot on the goal. Due to their responsibility of leading the scoring, they become 
the de facto offensive tempo makers that guide shifts and set plays. The average 
height of these players in the premiership is 6’0” to 6’4”, with a frame that allows 
for quick sprints and powerful kicks. (Snee, 2021)
Followers/ Rovers
This player lurks around the center square during bounces and stoppages to 
receive the ball and complete a clearance towards a forward. Rovers are typically 
the smallest players on the pitch, usually in the 5’4”-5’11” range. These players 
will often cover the most ground, averaging under 18km, requiring increased 
traction and lightweight boots to keep up with their high stamina requirement 
(Snee, 2021)
Ruck-Man
The ruckman needs to be tall and active; the average height is 6’5”-7’2”. The 
ruckman must follow the ball around the field and needs to get to every ruck 
contest to give the team the best chance at securing possession and feeding the 
ball to other midfielders. The main focuses for ruckmen are comfort and 
lockdown, as their frames put increased Strain on their feet and joints. (Snee, 
2021)
Jobs to be done
The created footwear needs to function better than existing Australian football boots 
and lower weight with increased performance benefits. The shoe needs thoughtful 
striking zone considerations, and 3D printed features in the midsole and cleat outsole to 
keep the player comfortable during long games and better options than the existing 
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market. The shoe needs to be made from innovative materials to wear carefree 
throughout an entire game.
Sport Success
Success in this sport is gained by accumulating the highest number of points 
across the span of the game to win.
Biomechanical Needs
Drop Punt Kick | Check Side Kick
Goal-kicking forms an essential component of winning games in Australian Football (AF), 
as it provides the only means to score points. The drop punt is a complex 
multidimensional kicking action that successfully involves whole-body interactions. It is 
relatively reliable, simple to execute, and faster to perform when compared to other 
punting techniques, providing better ball stability and a more accurate outcome. The 
drop punt technique is of particular importance as it is the primary technique used 
during set-shot attempts, making up 62% of points scored during a game (Roberston, 
Back, & Bartlett, 2016). The drop punt kick involves the combined technical aspects of a 
running approach, the release of the ball from the hands, and a forceful impact with the 
foot of the kick-leg as it swings through in the direction of the goals, where more 
accurate kickers adopted a straighter approach line, dropped the ball in line with the 
kicking thigh and finished with the kick-leg pointing towards goals. (Blair, Roberston, 
Duthie, & Ball, 2020). The kicking action can be broken down into six-movement 
phases:
Phase of Movement Start Point End Point
Approach Initiation of movement Toe-off into kicking motion
Back Swing Toe-off into kicking action Maximum Hip Extension
Wind Up Maximum Hip Extension Maximum Knee Flexion
Forward Swing Maximum Knee Flexion Foot-to-ball Contact
Follow Through Foot-to-ball Contact Maximum Knee Extension
Recovery Maximum Knee Extension Maximum Hip Flexion
Table 1 The Six Phases of Movement in a Drop Punt Kick
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Image 5 Movement Sequence of a Drop Punt Kick (A) approach, (B) backswing, (C) wind-up, (D) forward 
swing, (E) follow-through, and (F) recovery. (Delaware, 2017)
To achieve an accurate drop punt, an appropriate force must be imparted onto the ball 
as a resultant function of generated foot velocity, effective striking mass, and the quality 
of foot-to-ball contact (Young, 2005). The correct kicking technique involves a series of 
well-timed and controlled whole-body interactions, particularly ball velocity, trajectory, 
limb coordination and control, foot position, stiffness, impact restitution, ball drop, 
contact position, joint flexibility, and range of motion.
Approach
The drop punt can be performed from a stationary position or using a predetermined 
approach strategy, which may vary based on length, speed, and approach angle. The 
two latter are the main components that substantially influence the kicking performance 
during the development of foot velocity and the rotational axis of the kicking leg (Hart, 
2012). The approach phase is a preparatory movement that aims to accelerate the body 
into a selected velocity prior to planting the support leg as a mechanism to generate and 
transfer greater levels of initial velocity from the whole body through the sequential 
segmentation of the kicking leg and into the ball. A run-up approach achieves higher ball 
speeds than a stationary kick based on previously established momentum, allowing 
more significant lengthening of hip musculature, which subsequently enables them to 
perform more work over a greater distance (Hart, 2012).
Support Leg
As skilled kicking involves the complex interaction of many-body segments and requires 
footballers to adopt single-leg postures, the wholesome contribution of the support leg 
to the kicking motion is visibly significant (Blair, Roberston, Duthie, & Ball, 2020). The 
importance of the support leg is to allow athletes to manipulate and lower their center 
of gravity to provide greater athletic stability, balance, and control while also resisting 
torque developed by the kicking leg when powerfully striking the ball (Blair, Roberston, 
Duthie, & Ball, 2020).
Ball drop
Within the ball drop of both the drop punt and torpedo, players must guide the ball 
down with the guiding hand cradling the ball and with the release point being at the 
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time kicking foot leaves the ground, ultimately allowing the player sufficient time to 
generate power to kick the ball. The ball is released from hip level as the guiding hand 
controls the path and orientation of the ball. Throughout this stage, the non-guiding 
hand is removed from the front of the ball and swings up and back in an arc to provide 
balance and stability. In the final stages of the ball drop, it is crucial to ensure the ball is 
in a vertical position as it leaves the hand to allow the bottom third of the ball to reach 
contact with the foot. Ultimately resulting in the ball spinning backward, therefore, 
creating a more accurate kick (Hart, 2012)
Swing of Leg
During the swing phase, the leg has angular momentum. This is because any mass with 
velocity has momentum and because the leg has an angle, it, therefore, has angular 
momentum. As previously mentioned, for optimal power and acceleration of the leg's 
swing, we need to reduce the mass (shoes) or keep the mass close to the center of 
rotation. That is why we can see the leg swing remains relatively close to the body's 
center to generate power for the kick.
Foot Velocity
Foot velocity is a significant contributor to subsequent ball velocity and kicking distance 
achieved (Young, 2005); To develop high foot speeds, the kicking leg must produce a 
proximal-to-distal segmental sequence, commonly identified as a ‘throw like movement 
pattern. In a chain reaction to maximize foot speed, the movement should commence 
with the proximal segments (the body and thigh) and progress through the linked chain 
to more distal segments (the shank and foot) so that each segment starts its motion at 
the preceding segments moment of most significant velocity.
Additional Factors involved in Kicking Sequence
Magnus Effect
The ‘Magnus Effect’ is a spinning ball ‘grabs’ the air that flows past it due to the friction 
between the air and the ball, and as a result, the air particles begin to spin with the ball 
(Blainey, 2010). The Magnus Effect influences the drop punt as the ball spins in a 
backward motion in a vertical position. Ultimately this creates an increased amount of 
air resistance and a greater level of friction. Therefore, the speed and velocity of the ball 
are significantly reduced because of form drag; however, it does provide an increased 
level of control and accuracy. As the ball spins, it creates a pressure difference, which 
moves from left to right, creating more control of how the ball moves throughout the 
flight pat.
In contrast to the drop punt, which achieves a high level of friction as it moves 
throughout the air, the torpedo kick is marginally influenced by friction and air 
resistance due to the way it travels throughout the air. The torpedo kick is a kick used to 
achieve large distances as it relies on a high amount of spin and rotates in a vortex 
position throughout the air for this to be successfully achieved. (Young, 2005).
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Foot-to-ball Contact
Ball velocity, trajectory, and directionality rely upon the suitable generation of angular 
momentum transferred to the ball and angular impulse applied to the ball, as created by 
the kicking leg during the kicking action and impact phase (Young, 2005). Therefore, a 
limb with greater striking mass or greater peak velocity at impact will achieve more 
incredible ball velocity due to a longer contact time between the foot and the ball (Hart, 
2012) where the collision between the foot and the ball is influenced by the deformation 
of the kicking foot and the location of ball contact with the foot surface during the 
striking motion.
Upper Body
The kicking action is a whole-body multi-joint movement, with skilled kickers using more 
significant trunk rotation and non-kicking arm extension and abduction to produce a 
more effective tension and pre-lengthening stretch through the musculature of the trunk 
and pelvis, assisting with force generation and velocity transfer (Blair, Roberston, 
Duthie, & Ball, 2020).
Physiological Needs
Body Structure
Mass, stature, and frame compositions are evident factors that distinguish different 
positions in Australian football. The average height of current elite Australian Football 
players is 1.87 m across all current AFL players (Gray & Jenkins, 2010). However, other 
studies have found substantial positional differences in height, with small forwards and 
small midfielders shorter than the mean height, while key position forwards/ backs and 
ruckmen are all taller (Pyne, Gardner, Sheehan, & Hopkins, 2006). On average, body 
mass ranges between 85 and 90 kg (187-200 lbs.) at the elite level in the AFL, with 
some key position players weighing more than 100 kg (Young, 2005). This weight 
spectrum outlines variable muscle mass between positions, where smaller players tend 
to be bulkier to compensate for constant collisions during possessions and ball contests 
changes. The most significant physical change needed to play in the AFL is increased 
body mass with proportionate increases in strength (Keogh, 1999). Table 2 will 
highlight in red the differences in height and body mass where Ruckman (Nomadic) 
players are 188±9cm & 86.8±8.9kg, Forwards are 186±10cm & 87±7.75kg, and Rovers 
(Backs) are 187±5cm & 87.7±7.5kg (Gray & Jenkins, 2010).
Maximal Oxygen Uptake
During the 20m shuttle run test at the draft combine workouts, players' maximal oxygen 
uptake (VO2max) values ranged from 55 to 65mL/kg/min (Gray & Jenkins, 2010).
Compared to other sports like soccer and field hockey, the study found that this VO2max 
was marginally higher than the average across elite sports. When broken down by 
position, Ruckman (Nomadic) players had an endurance capacity of 61.6±3.5 
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mL/kg/min, Forwards had 57.8±5.1 mL/kg/min, and Rovers (Backs) had 61.1±3.5 
mL/kg/min, highlighted blue in Table X (Gray & Jenkins, 2010).
Muscular Endurance
Tackling, colliding, and ‘wrestling’ with opposition players during a mark or loose ball 
contests requires high upper and lower body strength levels. This strength can vary 
based on position due to the frequency of player involvement in contests and clashes. A 
bench press and leg press exercise used a three-repetition maximum to identify the 
upper body and lower limb strength across player categories. Highlighted green in Table 
2, it reflects that forward and backs possess slightly greater upper and lower body 
strength than elite midfielders (Young, 2005). Measures of leg power and upper body 
strength ability assessed are higher for Australian Football players than for rugby league 
players (Duthie, 2003)
Table V. Physiological characteristics of Australian Football playersa
Study
Buttifant*3’* Keogh1331 Pyne Pyne Young Young and 
et et al.*36’ et al.,3Zl Pryor*36*
Year of data collection 1993-7 1999 1999-2001 1999-2004 2004 2005
No. of players 18 29 283 495 38 177-200
Level of competition AFL (elite) State U/16 AFL draft camp AFL draft camp AFL (elite) State U/10
Age M 22.7 (1993J-26.8 [1997] 15.9 17-18 17-18 22.612.9 16-18
Positions All All All All Nomadic Forwards Backs All
Anthropometry
height (cm) 186 180.2 ±7.2 18616,62 18716.6 18819 186110 18715 183,916.9
body mass (kg) 85.7 [1993J-90 5 [1997] 74.618,3 80,517.82 81 ±7.6 86,818,9 8717.75 87.717.5 79.818.3
skinfolds (mm) 55.4[1993]-63.6(1997]b 5613.4° 55.3113.6° 4717.8“ 59.7116“ 53 3112“
Endurance capacity
20 m shuttle run (V021IiaJt; mL/kg/min) 53.6 [1993J-59.2 [1997] 57.7 57.8 ±3.4 57.813.4 61.613.5 57.815.1 61.113.5 57.313.5
yo-yo IR2d test (m) 7471123 6561128 7431142
Speed and acceleration
5 m (s) 1.09 ±0.06 1.12+0.05
10 m (s) 1.83 [1993J-1.66 [1997] 1.81 ±0.07 1.9 ±0.06 1.9310.1 1.8810.07
20 m (s) 3.06 [19931-2.92 [1997] 3.04 + 0.09 3.04 + 0.09 3.13 + 0.09
40 m (s) 5.37 [1993J-5.40 [1997]
Flying 30 m split (s) 3.4810.11 3.610.15 3.4910.06
Strength
3RM bench press (kg) 638 + 107 97.9111.9 93 + 10 4 988 + 8.4
3RM leg press (kg) 399148 348 1 64 410144
3RM chin ups (kg) 109110 103112 106+5
Leg power
concentric squat jump (W/kg) 68.316.2 70,517.4 68.1 ±7.1
countermovement squat jump (W kg) 70.2 ±88 65 119.4 69.117,8
Jumping ability
countermovement jump (cm) 55.2 ±7.9 60,115.76 62,3 ±3.7 58,415,1 63.412.4
absolute running vertical jump (cm) 322111.1 322 ±10.9
Flexibility
sit and reach lest (cm) 10.7 ±6.4 8.817.5
a Performance and anthropometric values are expressed as meant SD.
b Sum of seven skinfolds.
c Sum of eight skinfolds.
d There are two yo-yo protocols: level 1 and level 2. Level 2 is reported here and has higher initial running speeds.137*
AFL-Australian Football League; IR2 - intermittent recovery level 2; RM-repetition maximum; U/18=under 18 y age group; VO2m,x=maximal oxygen uptake.
Table 2 Physiological Characteristics of Australian Football Players
Speed and Repeated Sprint Ability
The ability to outrun defenders and ‘find space’ or chase down opponents is integral to 
Australian Football; players require swift acceleration and sprint ability in all positions 
15
during their high-speed and very high-speed runs. The time to cover an observed 
distance during a 10-meter sprint and a 30-meter flying sprint was recorded to 
document and emphasize these differences during a previous study. The study showed 
that the Nomadic and Forward players (1.9±0.06s & 1.93±0.1s) took 0.2 seconds longer 
on average to cover a 10-meter area compared to Backs (1.88±0.07s) from a standstill 
(Young, 2005). While Nomadic and Back players (3.48±0.11s & 3.49±0.06s) held an 
edge over Forward players (3.6±0.15s) during a flying 30-meter sprint (Young, 2005). 
These results show that players can accelerate to over 80% of their maximal velocities 
in just a few seconds, a desirable quality at the elite level. Repeated sprint ability is 
becoming increasingly important for players, as the game's pace has accelerated within 
the last decade. Using a 6 x 30m sprint protocol (on a 20-second cycle), the mean total 
time of all six sprints be 25.83 - 0.6 seconds (Pyne, Gardner, Sheehan, & Hopkins, 
2006).
In summary, compared with players in other positions, midfielders are consistently 
found to spend the most time at higher intensities, complete more high-intensity efforts, 
sustain them for longer and have shorter recovery periods between high-intensity 
exercise bouts. ‘Ruckmen’ have similar but less intense running profiles, while forwards 
and backs generally have less game involvement but have a more intermittent running 
profile (Delaney, Burgess, Dascombe, Dascombe, & Duthie, 2017)
Psychological Needs
Athletes need to train physically and mentally and face a variety of pre-game, in-game, 
and post-game factors that may affect their athletic performance. These external 
influences can alter their mindset and preparedness leading up to games and practices 
and deter entire seasons.
Pre-Game
Mental rehearsal, winning imagery, and positive visualizations are aids that sports 
psychologists practice with athletes to prepare them for success. These cognitive 
devices and wellness techniques are taught and reinforced before a player touches any 
court or pitch, yet this mental aspect might have the most significant impact on players 
during the off-season where they are subject to scrutiny or face the possibility of having 
to fight for a roster spot. The success visualization method allows players to project 
successful implementations of fundamental and trivial skills to increase the likelihood of 
in-game execution at an elite level (Perry & Erdal, 2008). Another pre-game aspect that 
affects players is their rituals, superstitions, or routines they perform before they go out 
to play. These are built over years of games and practices. Athletes must have their 
superstitions with them; it brings good luck and ease of mind (Neil, 1982).
16
In-Game
Some factors that afflict the psyche of an athlete are tied to elements that are only 
present in-situ or in-game. These can include simple body interactions with footwear 
land equipment, from cushioning and the proper fit of boots to their gear's sensory 
feedback and weight. A player will often want to feel the most comfortable while playing 
and go to great lengths to have the best gear with them when on the court (Foster, 
Weigand, & Baines, 2006). The gear players use helps them achieve maximal 
performance output if their footwear, uniform, and equipment check off their boxes. 
Appropriate equipment will increase sensory attenuation as they see direct feedback on 
using the items (Foster, Weigand, & Baines, 2006). Another subtle aspect of athletic 
gear is the weight or level of technology woven into the construction of the equipment, 
where users interpret less weight with being quicker and targeted technology with being 
able to ascend to a higher performance threshold.
Post-Game
The last phase of psychological consideration is after the final buzzer has rung, and 
players have reason to celebrate, deal with a dreary result or tend to an injury. The 
latter has the most considerable impact on a player’s mentality. If they know they are 
not 100% athletically, it becomes difficult to perform at a high level or even believe they 
can ascend to a previous threshold (Neil, 1982). This pressure to remain healthy leads 
players sometimes to hide injury or neglect to seek assistance, which may cause 
aggravated injuries or suboptimal performances come game-time. Another modern 
component of the post-game phase is image and media, where players are subject to 
extreme criticisms and slander from sports analysts and team fandoms (Gao, Wang, & 
Liu, 2021). The media’s effect on players has risen with social media, where players can 
be tagged and directly attacked with reproach based on sub-par performance or an act 
deemed derogatory or offensive. This off-field pressure can lead players to perform how 
they would otherwise not.
Product Anatomy
AF is regarded as a physically and technically demanding sport. The physical demands of 
an AF match vary considerably between playing positions, with global positioning system 
(GPS) analysis revealing players typically cover 11,000 to 17,000 meters during a match 
(Janetzki, Bourdon, Norton, Lane, & Bellenger, 2021). Australian Football footwear 
needs support, flexibility, stability, lockdown, and comfort features. These features 
enable modern-day AF players to engage in more frequent, high-intensity sprint efforts, 
kicking contests, and sustain athletic performance across these intermittent periods of 
the games quarter system (Snee, 2021).
The state-of-the-art AF boot comprises four core components: the upper, midsole, 
soleplate, and the last. The upper is comprised of textile combinations that house the 
foot during wear. It serves various functions depending on the specific region and 
material makeup.
17
Upper
An upper can have designated Drive, Touch, Volley, Pass, and Curve zones that affect 
its interaction with the ball. The upper encompasses the boot’s heel collar, which can 
vary in silhouettes from low, mid, semi-mid, and high cuts, where the increasing heights 
restrict the ankle’s range of motion and have the most significant degree of ankle 
lockdown potential. Comparatively lower cut options provide more flexibility and better 
pivoting capacity. Specific state-of-the-art uppers also have dedicated Strike zones that 
increase precision and focalize power onto the ball. Uppers have also developed either a 
laced or laceless system to cater to specific fits and actions of the foot. Additional upper 
components include the tongue, heel counter, vamp, lacing system, and textural 
elements. The latter can be integrated or fused to the exterior of the upper’s material. 
Many brands have proprietary lacing systems and engineered knits. However, kangaroo 
leather is the closest condition to the preferred fitting (Olaso Melis, Priego Quesada, 
Lucas-Cuevas, González García, & Puigcerver Palau, 2016).
Midsole
The midsole is an out-of-norm component for most football boots, as AF is one of the 
few sports that incorporate a developed midsole. This component provides the principal 
cushioning element of the boot, absorbing the heavy forces of running and jumping 
(Saleem, 2018). Typically, the midsole is located between the upper and the outsole; 
some high-tech midsoles are made with non-foam technologies, such as airbags or gel 
pods, to increase protection and durability. AF boots in specific have a silhouette that 
more closely resembles a wedge designed to increase forefoot propulsion in explosive 
movements. Not all AF boots offer a midsole, as it is a component that is typically 
omitted due to manufacturing cost.
Soleplate
The soleplate is the final component of the boot; it is made up of the soleplate itself, the 
studs, and the critical configurations of studs. There are several classifications, but the 
three main categories are Firm Ground, Soft Ground, and Artificial Ground (Olaso Melis, 
Priego Quesada, Lucas-Cuevas, González García, & Puigcerver Palau, 2016).
Firm Ground (FG)
Firm Ground soleplates are designed for natural grass surfaces, typically solid 
ground, and require a more significant amount of penetration for a stable 
footing, leading to more blade-like studs. The studs are usually molded as part of 
the plate itself and have the same material composition (Barr, 2017). Nowadays, 
to reduce weight, brands like the Nike Tiempo and the Adidas Copa Sense.1 
have a split soleplate construction covering just the forefoot and the rearfoot, all 
supported by an internal chassis.
18
Soft Ground (SG)
Soft Ground soleplates are relatively heavy compared to the other two; since wet 
and muddy pitches usually require the most penetration possible, SG soleplates 
have screw-in holes for elongated metallic studs (Barr, 2017). The screw-in 
configuration means studs of SG soleplates are replaceable. Certain brands have 
also developed a hydrophobic layer to repel mud and prevent an accumulation of 
dirt between studs.
Artificial Ground (AG)
Lastly, Artificial Ground soleplates house more studs than the FG soleplate, with 
the studs being mainly conical in shape. This is because artificial pitches, while 
built to replicate natural surfaces, are more rigid and denser, allowing less 
penetration and requiring more pressure distribution to be comfortable. Like 
those in FG, the studs are also molded and take up the material of the base 
plate.
Stud Shape
The studs come in varying shapes; three general stud shapes are 
Triangular/Bladed, Conical, and Hybrid. Bladed studs provide traction when a 
player pushes from the side of their foot during a cut move. In comparison, 
conical studs provide stability and rotational traction during a wide range of 
movements. Hybrid studs are semi-altered triangles and conical shapes that 
attempt to balance rotational traction and propulsion (Barr, 2017). Different 
sports product companies have boot designs that cater to specific positional 
needs across many football variants. Mainly to provide targeted traction, zoning, 
and control details for those positional needs.
Last Form
The final component is one of the aims of this research, the last. Last shape and design 
are one of the aims of this research as the last shape has a substantial influence on 
sprinting performance, kicking accuracy, and influences maximum kicking velocity 
(Hennig & Sterzing, 2010). Lasts are three-dimensional forms that mimic the design 
form of the boot and give the upper its shape and volume. Anatomical lasts are more 
contoured to match the foot's shape, while generic lasts are based on morphological 
averages. Additionally, the last’s footbed can profoundly impact player performance, as 
it delivers optimal support shape between the player’s foot and the soleplate 
(Liebeskind, 2011).m Depending on positional proclivities, these last shapes are adjusted 
to aid player performance.
Product Landscape
In the realm of competitive footwear for AF, only one large-scale manufacturer, Asics, 
has a dedicated lineup for the sport; however, the provided solutions do not adequately 
target positional needs. Alongside Asics, smaller companies target specific game 
19
attributes like kicking and comfort without applying the solutions in an aimed method. 
Apart from these specifically designed boots, AF players will routinely sport soccer and 
rugby boots as improvisations; this external use creates a wide variety of boot options 
across pricing, last shapes, features, and graphics.
An important consideration is that the Product Landscape analysis is restricted to 
Kangaroo Leather (K-Leather) variant boots where the primary upper material is either 
entirely kangaroo leather or incorporates a combination of synthetic leathers alongside 
k-leather.
The highlighted boots are Asics’s Lethal Tigreor FF2, Concave’s Halo + Hulk Firm Ground 
Cleat, Nike’s Tiempo Legend 9 Elite Firm Ground boots, and Adidas’s Copa Sense.1 Firm 
Ground Cleats.
Product Image Price Sport Features & Benefits
Asics MSRP $240 Australian • HG10mm Heel Gradient to reduce Strain on
Lethal Football lower limbs
Tigreor • Lightweight comfort for faster momentumand directional changes
IT FF 2 • Revamped upper design for lockdown in
heavy playing conditions
• Kangaroo leather
• FLYTEFOAM cushioning
Concave MSRP $280 Australian • AccuStrike Railing System for increased grip
Halo + Football and control
Hulk FG • Dual anti-torsion bars soleplate for ultimategrip and traction on firm ground surfaces
• Texturized synthetic upper for ultimate
stability while enhancing feel
• Neoprene inner
• hybrid stud configuration
Adidas MSRP $225 Soccer • Low-Profile Design for increased ankle range
Copa of motion
Sense.1 • Touch pods for absorbing impact energy ofincoming passes
FG • Sense pods for creating a seamless
connection between boot and foot
• Kangaroo & Synthetic leather upper for
perfect ball feel
• Redesigned soleplate to stabilize user’s gait
Nike MSRP $285 Soccer • Low-Profile design
Tiempo • Upper has raised textures for precise
Legend 9 /. . - - dribbling• Soft foam pods for exceptional comfort
Elite FG • Kangaroo leather
• Adaptive mesh tongue to reduce bulk
• Redesigned soleplate to provide traction for
quick cuts and sudden stops
Table 3 lists and compares the price, sport, and features of several top market boot alternatives for AF, 
image rights: players (Adidas, 2021) (Asics, 2021) (Concave, 2021) (Nike, 2021)
20
Competitor Landscape SWOT Analysis
To better understand the possible design interventions with the proposed footwear 
solution of this research, a thorough SWOT analysis details at an anatomical level the 
top three competitors in the Australian Football boot market.
SWOT
ASICS LETHAL TIGREOR IT FF 2
Strength Weakness Opportunities Threats
Kangaroo Lenthnr upper 
Upper comprises most ol Iha too box Breathability has not been Dltferem cuts of collar length for heel There ere other kangaroo leather options 
ano lateral side of foot mentioned and loot lockdown on the market that may have belter leer
Sockliner 100% Polyester Jersey Knit tor Sock-liner IS Standard, not much 
Increasing the ventilation, by using a 3D 
increased perspiration control innovation Mesh or channeling groove system Jersey Knit h a bit of a bandaid solution
Having Poron or similar impact foam io No impact protection drives users away, 
Insole EVA lootbed- 8-10mm Standard insole, no impact protection or striking absorption decrease return energy on foot arch and if thek feet hurt they won't use them to heel play
HG10MM Midsole Technology thal Poeiboos athletes in a forward Zoned cushioning to improve the Forward leaning position might not bo Midsole includes an additional 5mm raise the best way to provide adequate 
■it tne neel for better comfort leaning position comfort comfort
Injection Molded Soleplate with Configuration of studs In heel will Reconfiguration lor positional needs, 
Sole-Plate Comical and Bladed studs no: allow tor quick pivoting placing conical SludS in strategic 
Lighter dual-pate construction might be 
positions more useful than one sow piece
Last Standard Mens Rugby Last Needs to be wider to accommodate Wider Last Not providing a wider foe box takes leather loosening up longer to break in
Image 6 SWOT Analysis of Asics Football Boot - Competitor 01
SWOT
CONCAVE HALO + KL FG
Strength Weakness Opportunities Threats
Kangaroo Leather makes up the Too smooth of a construction, no Zoning with texturing pods or cells to 
Upper toe box and 'concave' strike zone other zones for passing or Increase accuracy when kicking non­ Other kangaroo leather options have 
woven through the laces non-linear kicks linear more features
100% Polyester Jersey Knit with 
Sockliner perforations for increased Sock-liner is standard, not much Increasing the ventilation, b using a 3D 
perspiration control innovation Mesh or channeling groove system
Liner is not great at channeling airflow
Insole EVA footbed- 8mm 
Poron or similar impact foam, vacuum 
Perforated No impact protection formed to better nest the foot of the No impact protection drives users awayathlete with a cradle shape
No midsole, cannot provide 
Midsole N/A adequate comfort from just the A midsole that can be interchangeable Low comfort, players wil opt for 
insole's BMW something with better cushioning
Configuration of plales various 
Sole-Plate MultiPiece Molded Soleplate with islands crates a hollow effect, might To segmented a plate wil cause issues Conical and Triangular studs not be effective with too much Splitting of soleplate is a god concept with boot's life-span
segmentation
Last Standard Mens Soccer Last Needs to be wider Last and vamp area need redefinition
To narrow a vamp, creates increased 
pressure on toe box and ligaments
Image 7 SWOT Analysis of Concave Football Boot - Competitor 02
21
SWOT
ADIDAS COPA SENSE.1 FG
Strength Weakness Opportunities Threats
Upper Multiple zoned areas for control 
A mainly synthetic leather upper There are other boot options on the 
and kangaroo leather region compromises the feel that players 
Different cuts of collar length for heel 
and foot lockdown market that may have a greater ratio of 
like actual leather
Channeled footbed, that is 
Sockliner comprised of a better moisture Positioning of channels might not Increasing the ventilation, by using a 3D Liner is an overlooked component of the 
wicking polyester blend direct airflow in the right direction Mesh or channeling groove system cleat that requires a better design
Vacuum formed EVA 8mm, with Having Poron or similar impact foam to Overuse of sense poas can cause 
Insole protruding heel and arch Impact protection is not mentioned decrease return energy on foot arch and discomfort, need to be reduced to a 
Touchpads heel strategic amount
Midsole MA Cushioning through Poron pods on Integration of a insertable midsole with No Midsole increases foot pain along heel are the cushioning in the shoe plotted cushioning zones medial side arches of the users feet
Hybrid conical and triangular 
Sole-Plate studs, mid foot system to allow a Stud count int he forefoot is not Reconfigure to accommodate for less 
Top tier engineering, yet can be made 
adequate for AF control and more movement lighter or converted into a split plate to fishtail effect allow for torsion
Last Mens Soccer Last To slim and narrow Increasing the width and roof of vamp To narrow means it will not be a top choice for the athletes
Image 8 SWOT Analysis of Adidas Football Boot - Competitor 03
State-of-the-Art Materials
AF boots uppers are traditionally composed of k-leather or a combination of k-leather 
and other synthetic leathers. Certain brands substitute leather for engineered knits that 
restrict or encourage specific movements. These uppers will often have hot melts made 
from PU, Poron, or TPU films to increase textural qualities and enhance the boot's 
longevity, using the stitching patterns as texturing (Olaso Melis, Priego Quesada, Lucas- 
Cuevas, González García, & Puigcerver Palau, 2016). Brands like Nike and Adidas will 
have their proprietary knits and textured designs; these knits are combinations of 
polyester and nylon weaved in an engineered fashion. The midsoles traditionally 
comprise Ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) or Polyurethane (PU) foam, but each company will 
have a patented combination or formula for this foam. The soleplate is usually injection 
molded and casts both the studs and plate in one piece, customarily made of either PU, 
Nylon, Styrene-butadiene, or Butyl. Some brands like Asics also incorporate a thin 
carbon fiber plate in the midsole to increase energy return to the athlete, while other 
companies have experimented with castor beans. These soleplates can also have 
removable metal studs depending on the stud configuration.
State-of-the-Art Manufacturing
The manufacturing process of making the boot’s upper consists of laser-cutting each 
upper component and stitching the ensemble together, however prior to this process, 
the leather or engineered knit is embossed or printed with any decorative elements, and 
the stitch-line patterns are also etched on (Motawi & Motawi, 2017). After it has been 
assembled, the upper is skived, and a succession of workers hammer down the edges. 
Next, the upper goes through the lasting process where the edges are wrapped around 
22
and beneath the last form through a thermoforming and hydraulic pressing machine. 
Afterward, the uppers are then buffed down using a small sanding tool that will rough 
the bottom edges of the upper, providing a clean area for the bonding cement to 
adhere. Primer and cement are applied to the upper and are reactivated with a UV heat 
treatment to allow for better bonding between materials. To achieve optimal shape 
retention, the soleplate and upper, with the last form still inserted, are left in a hydraulic 
press for 20 minutes to 24 hours while the leather cures to its new shape. Lastly, any 
rivets that might be needed are inserted, and additional glue is applied to the edge of 
the plate to maximize the seal to the leather upper
Rules and Regulations
The Australian Football league has prohibited the use of boot studs, plates/cleats, or any 
Protective Equipment (other than Protective Equipment approved by the Controlling 
Body) unless the field Umpire is satisfied that the item does not constitute a danger or 
increase the risk of injury to other Players competing in the Match (Australian Football 
League, 2021).
As well as outlining that, under apparel,
I. Not to wear boots that have exposed metal stops (i.e., stops may internally contain metal
or be metal at the end which screws into the boot, but no exposed surface of the stop 
that may potentially meet the turf or other player may be metal)
II. Not to wear boots with stops that are plastic or any other material that have sharp or
pointed edges (Australian Football League, 2021).
A breach of either regulation can result in a sanction of $40,000, along with a 
suspension pending the gravity of the violation (Wu, 2020).
Along with the rules outlining restrictions, it is worth noting the scoring system that 
applies during a game of AF. There are two methods to score a point(s) in AF; the 
primary method is kicking a ball through the two center uprights, resulting in 6 points 
awarded to the kicking team; the other method is scoring a behind, which is when the 
ball passes between the uprights on either side of the center gap, this will give the team 
1 point (Snee, 2021). The Australian Football League outlines both methods like the 
following:
16.1.1 Scoring a Goal
Subject to Law 16.2, a Goal is scored when the Football is Kicked completely 
over the Goal Line by a Player of the Attacking Team without being touched by 
any other player, even if the football first touches the ground.
16.1.2 Scoring a Behind
Subject to Law 16.2, a Behind is scored when any of the following occurs:
(a) the football passes entirely over the Behind Line;
23
(b) the football touches or passes over the goal post or touches the padding or 
any other attachment to the goal post;
(c) a Player of the Attacking Team Kicks the Football over the Goal Line, but 
before completely passing over the Goal Line, the football is touched by another 
player;
(d) a Player from the Attacking Team Handballs, knocks, or otherwise takes the 
football over the Goal Line, other than kicking the ball described in clause 16.1.1;
(e) a Player from the Defending Team Kicks, Handballs, knocks, or otherwise 
takes the football over the Goal Line or Behind line; or
(f) if a defending Player plays on from behind the Goal Line or Behind line and 
subsequently changes direction before entering the Playing Surface.
(Australian Football League, 2021)
The last fundamental regulations concern Free Kicks and Marks, as these stoppages 
significantly affect scoring opportunities by allowing the player to kick an uncontested 
direct kick towards goal with the opponent a specified distance from the kicking player.
18.1.3 When a Free Kick May be Awarded
A Free Kick may be awarded when the football is or is not in play, between when 
a field umpire starts and ends a quarter. However, a Free Kick may also be 
awarded:
(a) if an infringement occurs on the arena before the commencement of a 
quarter, in which case the Free Kick shall be taken at the Centre Circle or in 
accordance with Law 18.1.2, whichever is the more significant penalty against 
the offending team; and
(b) after a score has been recorded or play has ended, in the circumstances 
described in Laws 16.4, 16.5, and 16.6.
15.1 Marking the Ball
A Mark is taken if, in the opinion of the field Umpire, a Player catches or takes 
control of the football:
(a) within the Playing Surface;
(b) after it has been Kicked by another Player a distance of at least 15 meters; 
and
(c) which has not touched the ground or been touched by another Player.
17.3 Protected area
24
Other than the player bringing the football into play, all Players must make every 
endeavor to vacate the Protected Area described in Figure 3 immediately.
Figure 2 Illustrates the Protected area 
designated for a Free kick (Australian 
Football League, 2021)
Intellectual Property
This research's relevant intellectual property includes methodology, manufacturing, and 
assembly of footwear products with incorporated additive manufacturing, lattice 
structures, and footwear with a cleated soleplate.
Relevant Patents include:
US20190232591A1 | method for forming three-dimensional structures with different 
material portions- Yoav Sterman, Todd A. Waatti
A system and method for forming 3D printed structures includes printing an outer shell portion and 
filling an interior ofthe outer shell portion to form an inner portion. The outer shell portion and an 
inner portion may have different material properties. The outer shell portion may be anchored to 
the base component (USA Patent No. US 20190232391A1, 2019)
Figure 3 illustrate the applications of the patent towards 3D-printed cleats
25
US6763611B1 | Footwear sole incorporating a lattice structure- Ciro Fusco
The invention is an article of footwear with a sole that incorporates a lattice structure.
The lattice structure includes a plurality of connectors joined by a plurality of masses and 
may be configured to attenuate and distribute ground reaction forces in a specific 
manner. In addition, the connectors and masses may be configured to vibrate at a 
specific frequency or exclude vibrations at another frequency (USA Patent No.
Figure 4 Footwear sole incorporating a lattice structure
US6763611B1 , 2004)
US20140020192A1 | Footwear Assembly Method With 3D Printing - David P. Jones, Ryan
Larson
Methods and systems are disclosed for apparel assembly using three-dimensional printing 
directly onto fabric apparel materials. Disclosed is a method and system for direct three­
dimensional printing and assembly of an article of apparel, including designing a three­
dimensional pattern for printing, positioning at least a portion of the article on a tray in a 
7// yyyw,
FIG.10
j re 5 Footwear Assembly M 3D Printing
26
three-dimensional  printing system, the portion being positioned substantially flat on the 
tray, printing a three-dimensional material directly onto the article using the designed 
pattern, curing the printed material, and removing the article from the three-dimensional 
printing system (USA Patent No. US20140020192A1, 2015)
US20140020192A1 | Footwear midsole with warped lattice structure and method of 
making the same- jacques perrault, derekandrew luther, berin skye b, marco florian kormann, pradeepan 
INDRA KUMAR Florian Josel FICK, Felix Braun, Yuehong TU, Andrew Jacob SCHNEIDER, Christian Siegl, Brendan Epley
A midsole for an article of footwear including a three-dimensional mesh including 
interconnected unit cells and methods of making the same. The interconnected unit cells 
each include a plurality of struts defining a three-dimensional shape. The interconnected 
unit cells are connected at nodes having a valence number defined by the number of 
struts connected at that node. The valence number of the nodes may vary to provide 
customized characteristics to zones or portions ofthe midsole. The plurality of 
interconnected unit cells may be organized in a warped cubic lattice structure. The 
warped cubic lattice structure and the size/shape of interconnected unit cells may vary to 
provide customized characteristics to zones or portions of the midsole. The three­
dimensional mesh may be customized based on a biometric data profile for an individual 
or group of individuals. The midsole may be manufactured using an additive 
manufacturing process (USA Patent No. US10932521B2, 2019)
Figure 6 Footwear Midsole with a warped lattice construction
US20160374431A1 | Systems and Methods for Manufacturing of Multi-Property 
Anatomically Customized Devices- Adam P. Tow
Systems and methods for using a three-dimensional fabrication device, like a 3D Printer, 
for novel automation and additive manufacturing techniques in manufacturing medical 
devices such as orthotics, customized for a particular person. The systems and methods 
may use a plurality of work surfaces on the three-dimensional fabrication device. The 
systems and methods may use a plurality of materials or a plurality of fabrication tools
27
and processes to manufacture the customized product (USA Patent No. 
US20160374431A1, 2016)
FIG. 42 
Tow
Figure 7 Multi-Property Anatomically Customized Device
Product Trends
Color Trends
Trend research focuses on the spring and summer seasons (S/S) of 2022-23, based on 
the proposed innovation timeline and intended launch. With a close to the earth palette, 
grounded by richly pigmented clay, intensely colored vessels evoke the arid landscape of 
the aboriginal homeland (Palmer, 2021). A palette that includes primary colors of deep 
greens (#F2C230 | 17-5912 TCX) and rich deep oranges (#8C5320 | 18-1250 TCX), 
with accent colors of maroon (#73324A | 19-1528 TCX), yellow (#F2C230 | 19-1528 
TCX), orange (#F25D27 | 19-1528 TCX), and ivory (#D7D7D9 | 11-0103 TCX).
28
Image 9 Color Trend Recap from in-class Presentation
Graphic Trends
3D-printed lace, embossed pattern, and sleek forms, the computational craft is 
becoming even more refined in intricate and filigree material forms & the 
metaverse inspires transformative color and materials in both digital and physical 
contexts (Saldana, 2021). These trends use color and texture to provide a sense of 
protection and comfort while creating visual depth with layering and transparency.
GRAPHIC TRENDS
FORECAST S/S 23
TRANSPARENCY
JOYFUL EXPRESSION
SOPHISTICATED AND CLEAN GRAPHICS
Image 10 Graphic Trend Recap from in-class Presentation
29
Branding Trends
Transformative, super-natural materials to emit dazzling visuals in real and virtual 
realms with a responsive or gradient color of real and digital skins to products and 
spaces... (Saldana, 2021). Using TPU overlays, reflective tapes, embossments, and 
screen prints display logos, branding, and additional decals or text, either informing use 
or as part of the overall design.
LOCO TRENDS
FORECAST S/S 23
INFOGRAPHICS
INFORMATIVE TEXTS
BRAND LOGOTYPE
LARGE LOGO IMPRINTED ON LATERAL SIDE
JD-PRINTED LACE, EMBOSSED PATTERN AND SLEEK FORMS, COMPUTATIONAL CRAFT IS 
BECOMING EVEN MORE REFINED IN INTRICATE ANO FILIGREE MATERIAL FORMS & THE 
METAVERSE INSPIRES TRANSFORMATIVE COLOR AND MATERIALS IN BOTH DIGITAL AND PHYSICAL 
CONTEXTS
Image 11 Logo/Branding Trend Recap from In-class Presentation
Athlete Questionnaire
A survey was sent out to various athletes, coaches, and biomechanists to determine 
athletes' positional needs, characteristics, and potential design interventions associated 
with Australian Rules Football. Using this information will verify that the proposed 
footwear intervention is warranted or needs modification prior to going into the design 
and prototyping phase of the capstone project. Several sections had “outs” to avoid 
irrelevant feedback once the athlete’s responses extended beyond their expertise or 
experience. The link to the survey and snapshots of the survey will be attached below.
https://forms.gle/AyTdPvc9KZB1wxqNA
30
Section 1 of 5
Australian Football Footwear Questionnaire
My name is Bryant Jimenez; I am a Sports Product Design graduate student at the University of Oregon, USA. I 
am looking to gain insight into Australian Football players' footwear and habits, to better understand and design 
footwear solutions for the sport.
Your name.
Short answer text
Do you play Australian Rules Football? *
Yes
O No
Section 2 of 5
Sport Background
This section will ask about your experience, involvement, and positional background information
How long have you played the sport? *
O «'I
O 25
O 5-10
O 10<
31
What level of Australian Football do you play? *
Q Pick-up
High School (Competitive)
Summer/Fall/Spring League
Q College
Q Club
Q Professional
Q Other...
What position do you play? *
Q Forward
Q Ruckman
Q Rover/Follower
Q Other...
What is this position's primary goal/job/skills?
Long answer text
After section 2 Continue to next section
Section 3 of 5
Cleats, Boots, Screw-ins
This section gets into more specific footwear details, regarding brands, likes, and dislikes
32
33
Section 4 of 5
Positional Focus
Description (optional)
Do you think having cleats that are position-specific would be helpful? *
O Yes
O N°
(2 Maybe
If yes, explain the differences for each position
Long answer text
Do you have any other opinions on what makes a good cleat for Aussie Rules?
Long answer text
Image 12 An accumulation of screenshots that show the athlete survey sent out
Performance Testing
The proposed footwear competitors will be tested and analyzed to determine a baseline. 
Three competitor products will be analyzed, Asics Lethal Tigreor, Concave Halo, and 
Adidas Copasense.1 FG. The selected footwear represents the top-rated kangaroo 
leather competitors that this research’s intervention aims to surpass. The attached slides 
outline a detailed process of the types of tests and methodology that the competitor 
footwear will be submitted to. Approximately three athletes will be recruited as wear­
testers. These athletes will be males spanning the different positions identified in the 
positional focus section of this research.
34
Wear Testers
Tom Snee Spencer Webb TBD I Austin Crows Ruckman
UO Punter, Ausse Rules Background UO Punter, Special Team US ATL Affiliate Team
CONFIRMED "DATE SPECIFIC
Image 13 Tom Snee and Spencer Webb are the two confirmed wear testers for the Winter term validation 
and testing analysis
Image 14 Performance testing program breakdown
Proof of Concept Presentation
35
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40
HAVOC
THESIS 2022
The font on slide 7 is not showing up anywhere else, change it out.
Your argument for additive manufacturing is still not strong. You will need to answer to questions that challenge—cost effectiveness, ease of manufacturing, durability, color, etc 
If you move away from the clear filament, you will need to update your mood board—unless you will move to white?
It may be worth reaching out to the filament maker and see if they have ideas to stabilize the material color under UV and other handling. This is a problem in the footwear indi 
and companies add stabilizes in their materials, so they don't yellow too quickly. Also reach out to Proto Pasta and see if they have ideas too.
Explain what the last features are and why you used certain parts.
Lacing is missing or is not so attractive for your uppers—get that figured out. Also label medial/lateral views.
Missing features and benefits for all your footwear designs.
How can you improve your traction performance?
How can you improve your kicking accuracy performance?
BRYANT JIMENEZ, 24
UO Graduate with degrees in Architecture, 
Digital Arts and Romance languages
I WANT TO INNOVATE AND 
IMPROVE ATHLETE 
PERFORMANCE IN SPORTS
POST GRADUATION
I want to pursue Footwear Design through 
sample making or 3D Footwear Design in the 
cleated field or adjacent
HAVOC
THESIS 2022
WHAT IS
AUSTRALIANJ^III 
RULES FOOTBALL?
WHY IS IT
IMPORTANT
Unlike other popular cleated sports, only two boot 
manufacture produce a dedicated boot design
Fastest growing sport in the Oceanic region
921K Global Estimated 921.000 participants, with 720 premiership players and another 5.400 
senior players across other leagues
Despite being a 1.2 billion dollar industry 
players have to resort to sporting football 
cleats as workarounds
AUSSIE RULES FOOTBALL
How can we apply additive manufacturing and engineered lattice
structures to address the positional nee ds of Australian Football 
athletes
With 18 positions, the key roles observed are:
RUCKMAN
ROVER
FORWARD

ROVER
Recovers possession
Longest Average Game Distance
Most Versatile Movement

POSITIONAL NEEDS
LIGHTWEIGHT
Using 3D printed upper components and 3D lattice 
midsole to allow for easier acceleration
ROVER / FOLLOWER FORWARD RUCK / RUCK-MAN
TRACTION
Developing new stud configurations and shapes to 
improve forward momentum and reduce foot strain
ROVER / FOLLOWER RUCK / RUCK-MAN
ACCURACY
Redesigning the upper construction to improve kick 
distance and accuracy with new ball shape
FORWARD
Upper + Last Form + Lacing 
HAVOC PRINT System 30% REDUCED WEIGHT
WITHIN 10% TRACTION OF 
COMPETITORS
BLR SOLEPLATE Soleplate + Studs
WITHIN 15% 
ACCURACY
PRCSN-STRIKE Tongue + Upper
WHY ADDITIVE
MANUFACTURING?
WEIGHT COST
A synthetic material achieves the same amount of On average the cost of a pair while be a fraction of the 
durability at a fraction of the weight cost of genuine leather counterparts
MOLDABILITY COLOR
Synthetic materials require less break-in time for optimal TPU and TPE can be manufactured into any color or 
fit in the toe box graphic in a fraction of the time needed for dying leather
WEATHERING PROGRAMABILITY
Less time is needed to dry out the boots if they become Synthetic materials allow for the combinations of 
wet or are washed numerous technologies onto a boot, which might be 
impossible with leather as a base upper material
• . - * v
*-.-■.* r 1 - - v 1
r ¡1' ‘ a
HAVOC COLLECTION
THESIS 2022
MOOD BOARD Textures & SilhouettesAesthetically Details
COLOR PALETTE Primary Colors &Secondary Colors
# 1C181C # F26B1D # 63B597
C 0 M 8 Y 0 K 89 C 0 M 53 Y 84 K 5 C 32 M 0 Y 12 K 29
R 28 G 24 B 28 R 242 G 107 B 29 R 99 G 181 B 151
LAST REDESIGN Last Creation Last FeaturesSince there is no precedent last, I created a Widened Toe Box - A better fit based on Aussie Rules’ player foot morphology 
last shape from similar anthropometric Dorsiflexed MidFoot - Creating a ‘propelled’ stance similar to a track spike 
features of American Football , Soccer and Reduced Toe Spring - With no driven ball striking, the toe’s spring can be relaxed 
Running Last Widened Metatarsal Angle - Reshaping the toe box for a wider planting base
HAVOC LAST
SOCCER LAST
IDEATION
PATTERNING
PROTOTYPING
UPPER DESIGNS
ROVER FORWARD RUCKMAN
FEATURES & BENEFITS
ROVER FORWARD RUCKMAN
3D Textile Construction— A multi-filament upper, for a Impact Absorbing Kicking Pad — A targeted filament 3D Textile Construction— A multi-filament upper, for a 
lightweight and easily modified upper component for increased accuracy and reduced foot strain lightweight and easily modified upper
Internal Cage- Using a two layer system for increased stability Sideways Lacing- Unique lacing system for maximizing the Mid-Height— A taller silhouette allows for more lockdown for the 
Lattice Midsole Insert- A cushioned insole provides exceptional kicking surface along the vamp and top of foot ankle and base of the foot
comfort Targeted Construction- Using a combination of filaments to Lattice Midsole Insert- A cushioned insole provides exceptional 
Redesigned Cleatplate - For improved traction during dynamic provide stretch or impact absorption comfort
movement Redesigned Cleatplate - For improved traction during dynamic Redesigned Cleatplate - For improved traction during dynamic 
movement movement
KICKING ZONE/PAD
EXPLODED VIEW CHINCHILLA FILAMENT
TPU 95A 
0.5 -1.5 MM
OUTER SHELL
CHEETAH FILAMENT 
TPU 95A 
0.5 MM
SUPPORTS/INLAYS
CHINCHILLA FILAMENT
TPU 75A
0.5 MM
SOCKLINER
WOVEN
4-WAY STRETCH
FOAM PADDING
%” OPEN CELL FOAM 
%” OPEN CELL FOAM
MIDSOLE
CHEETAH FILAMENT
TPU 95A
VARIES FROM 0.16-0.55MM
STROBEL
NON-WOVEN
CLEATPLATE
ARMADILLO FILAMENT
TPU 75D ------
2-3MM
UPPER BUTTERFLY 
PATTERNS

BLR SOLEPLATE & 
MIDSOLE SHANK
LATERAL
SECTIONS
TOP
MEDIAL
MEDIAL BOTTOM SECTIONS LATERAL
PROOF OF 
CONCEPTS
- * } •*-* 3* r/./f *
♦
PERFORMANCE 
I
TESTING
WEIGHTS The cleats were weighed out-of-box, with insoles and laces
287g
272g
Havoc Boots
Concave Halo+
Adidas 
Copasene.1
TRACTION TESTING Traction ResistanceCleats were draped using a pull -system, 
with a force gauge measuring the necessary 
resistance to drag along a surface
TRACTION RESULTS Adidas Copasense.1 Concave Halo + Havoc Boot
Direction Condition Average Average Average
Dry 17.3 N 15.8 N 16.8 N
Forward
Wet 15.8 N 15.2 N 15.3 N
Dry 33.7 N 31.8 N 32.1 N
Right Angled
Wet 18.6 N 17.0 N 17.7 N
Dry 31.5 N 30.8 N 30.3 N
Left Angled
Wet 27.3 N 26.6 N 26.8 N
TRACTION TESTING
Micro-Texturing—Using additional micro textures along the length of the soleplate, 
additional traction can be extracted from the BLR soleplate
ACCURACY Drop Ball TestWith a Last Placed inside of the boot, a 
Sherrin ball was dropped from 2-feet above 
the lace/kicking zone of the boot
ACCURACY RESULTS Adidas Copasense.1 Concave Halo + Havoc Kicking Boot
Height Deviation R/L Deviation R/L Deviation R/L
1-Foot ~20 ° RIGHT ~5° LEFT ~10° LEFI
3-Foot ~15° RIGHT ~5° RIGHT ~5° RIGHT
ACCURACY
Reengineering Kicking Pad —By using non-uniform height pads, a 
flatter and more accurate kicking surface can be constructed
REFLECTIONS
ORDER OF OPERATIONS STROBEL APPROACH
The order of adhesive, laser cutting and heat press use Redesigning the patterning to allow for a full strobel will 
can be optimized to reduce yellowing and scorching solve puckering issue at the toe of the cleats
COLORWAY ADHESIVES
Using a darker material will allow for less visible scoring, Since most of these materials are TPU or TPE based not 
as well as the appeal compared to transparent all adhesives will adhere the fabrics together, leading to 
unforeseen curing and bonding times
LEAD TIME CUTTING
The material takes time to print in sheets, and being Shifting to using a Cricut to cut the patterns from the 
limited by the bed size constraint has had unforeseen sheets of filament to eliminate scoring or yellowing
benefits in patterning
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THESIS 2022
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AUSSIE RULES FOOTBALL HOW CAN WE INTEGRATE ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERED LATTICE STRUCTURES TO 
ADDRESS THE POSITIONAL NEEDS OF KEY AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL PLAYERS?
PITCH
150-180M
AMERICAN 
FOOTBALL
FORWARD ROVER RUCKMAN
PRIMARY GOALSCORER RECOVERS POSSESSION DEFENSIVE GIANT 
MOST DYNAMIC MOVEMENT LONGEST AVERAGE DISTANCE RUN AVERAGE HEIGHT 6’5”< 
SPRINTS BETWEEN 30-60M MOST VERSATILE MOVEMENT PATTERN AERIAL COLLISIONS 
18 DIRECT GAME TEMPO HIGH STAMINA COORDINATE DEFENSEPLAYERS 
Lockdown ______  Traction
Lockdown Traction
SCORING Lockdown -------Traction
6 Lightweight Comfort
Lightweight I ( ( (W) ) I I Comfort
 Lightweight I ( (X) ) I Comfort
TRY
Acc u ra cy F i t
1 Accuracy Fit
CONVERSION
WORLD 
FOOTBALL
TECHNOLOGIES
LIGHTWEIGHT
Using 3D printed upper components and 3D lattice 
midsole to allow for easier acceleration
ROVER / FOLLOWER FORWARD RUCK / RUCK-MAN
improve forward momentum and reduce foot strain
ROVER / FOLLOWER RUCK/RUCK-MAN
ACCURACY
Redesigning the upper construction to improve kick 
distance and accuracy with new ball shape
FORWARD
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LIGHTWEIGHT
3D Textile Construction— A multi-filament upper, for a 
lightweight and easily modified upper
Internal Cage- Using a two layer system for increased stability 
Lattice Midsole Insert- A cushioned insole provides exceptional 
comfort
Redesigned Cleatplate - For improved traction during dynamic 
movement
KICKING
BOOT
FORWARD
Impact Absorbing Kicking Pad — A targeted filament 
component for increased accuracy and reduced foot strain 
Sideways Lacing- Unique lacing system for maximizing the 
kicking surface along the vamp and top of foot
Targeted Construction- Using a combination of filaments to 
provide stretch or impact absorption
Redesigned Cleatplate - For improved traction during dynamic 
movement
MID-TOP
BOOT
3D Textile Construction— A multi-filament upper, for a 
lightweight and easily modified upper
Mid-Height— A taller silhouette allows for more lockdown for the 
ankle and base of the foot
Lattice Midsole Insert- A cushioned insole provides exceptional 
comfort
Redesigned Cleatplate - For improved traction during dynamic 
movement
EXPLODED
VIEWS I CAD
KICKING ZONE/PAD
CHINCHILLA FILAMENT
TPU 95A 
0.5 -1.5 MM
OUTER SHELL
CHEETAH FILAMENT 
TPU 95A 
0.5 MM
SUPPORTS/INLAYS
CHINCHILLA FILAMENT
TPU 75A
0.5 MM
SOCKLINER
WOVEN
4-WAY STRETCH
FOAM PADDING
1/s” OPEN CELL FOAM
1/4” OPEN CELL FOAM
MIDSOLE
CHEETAH FILAMENT
TPU 95A
VARIES FROM 0.16-0.55MM
STROBEL
NON-WOVEN
CLEATPLATE
ARMADILLO FILAMENT
TPU 75D
2-3MM
MEDIAL
LATERAL
SECTIONS
TOP
MEDIAL
BOTTOM SECTIONS LATERAL

BRYANT JIMÉNEZ
■ B É
UO Graduate with degrees in Architecture, 
Digital Arts and Romance languages 
a.
I WANT TO INNOVATE AND
IMPROVE ATHLETE
PERFORMANCE IN SPORTS
POST GRADUATION
I want to pursue Performance Footwear Design 
either through sample making or 3D Footwear 
Design
IDEATION// CONVERSE ALL STAR X RETRO REINVENT
COPAX LA OOYA
J? FS
BAREFOOT FEEL
IMPROVED TONCUE
WEIGHT REDUCTION
THE FINAL DESIGN DIRECTION INCORPORATES A NL _ IMPROVED FLEXIBILITY
SYSTEM TO IMPROVE LOCKDOWN AND AN OUTSOLE 
PATTERNING TO INCREASE TRACTION ON THE CANVAS
AN ASYMMETRICAL OUTSOLE PATTERN WILL ALSO CATER TO 
THE NEEDS OF THE BOXING STANCE WITH PIVOTING AND 
PLANTING FEATURES ADDED BREATHABILITY
LASTLY THE UPPER WILL HAVE FOCUSED CUSHIONING TO 
ALLOW FOR INCREASED BREATHABILITY WHILE PROVIDING 
SUPPORT ALONG THE ANKLE
MODERNIZED DNA
MORE VIDEOS
CONVERSE REINVENT COPA SPEEDHACK FUTSAL TRACTION

WHAT IS
AUSTRALIANJ^III 
RULES FOOTBALL?
f
RUCKMAN
Defensive Giants
Average Height 6’5” +
Aerial Collisions

ROVER
Recovers possession
Longest Average Game Distance
Most Versatile Movement



FORWARD
Primary Goalscorer
Most Dynamic Movement
Sprints between 30-60M
IK

CURRENT PROBLEMS
T
Unlike other popular cleated sports, only two 
boot manufacture produce a dedicated 
boot design
Despite being a 1.2 billion dollar industry 
players have to resort to sporting football 
cleats as workarounds due to available 
solutions not meeting their performance 
needs
With only 152 players in the Australian 
Premiership is prime for concept runs of 
cleated footwear
AUSSIE RULES FOOTBALL
How can we apply additive manufacturing to address the positional 
needs of Australian Football athletes
With 18 positions, the key roles observed are:
RUCKMAN
ROVER
FORWARD
POSITIONAL NEEDS
LIGHTWEIGHT
Using 3D printed upper components and 3D lattice 
midsole to allow for easier acceleration
ROVER / FOLLOWER FORWARD RUCK / RUCK-MAN
TRACTION
Developing new stud configurations and shapes to 
improve forward momentum and reduce foot strain
ROVER / FOLLOWER RUCK / RUCK-MAN
ACCURACY
Redesigning the upper construction to improve kick 
distance and accuracy with new ball shape
FORWARD
Upper + Last Form + Lacing 
HAVOC PRINT System 30% REDUCED WEIGHT
WITHIN 10% TRACTION OF 
COMPETITORS
BLR SOLEPLATE Soleplate + Studs
WITHIN 15% 
ACCURACY
PRCSN-STRIKE Tongue + Upper
ATHLETE INSIGHTS
Tom Snee Jeff Melanson
6’4” 6’2”
198 Lbs. 178 Lbs.
11-11.5 US 11-11.5 US
R-Foot Dominant R-Foot Dominant
Footy Copa Mundial Adidas Predator
Football Nike Tiempo
Race Malhum Joshua Rambert
6’3” 5’9”
190 Lbs. 180 Lbs.
11.5 US 9.5 US
R-Foot Dominant L-Foot Dominant
Nike Mercurial Flyknit Mercurial
Will Hutchinson Haki Woods Jr.
6’4” 6’5”
197 Lbs. 200 Lbs.
11 US 11.5 US
R-Foot Dominant R-Foot Dominant
Nike Tiempo Nike Vapor
01FIT/SIZING “THERE’S NOT MANY OPTIONS BESIDES FOOTBALL 
AESTHETICS BOOTS^BUT THEIR TOO NARROW FOR US BIGGER GUYS”02 
03TRACTION ALL OF THE SYNTHETIC OPTIONS LACK PADDING IN THE TOE BOX
04KICKING ZONE ALL THOSE TEXTURES DON’T DO ANYTHING FOR US, 
05COMFORT WE’RE NOT DOING FANCY TRICKS WITH OUR FEET
Lockdown Traction
Lightweight Comfort Comfort Comfort
Accuracy Fit
ROVER RUCKMAN FORWARD
SPOT COLOR STITCHING ACCENT
PERFORATIONS TRANSPARENCY


PROTOTYPES



TESTING

KEY OUTCOMES
SILHOUETTE PERFORATIONS
MULTI DIRECTIONAL PADDING
TRACTION
AMELIA ARUNDALE
BIOMECHANIST/PLAYER
Wrote a dissertation on the biomechanics of Aussie Rules
Football and then worked with the AFL-W League
THE IMPACT ABSORPTION FROM THE 
KICKING PAD ... WOULD ALLEVIATE THE 
STRESS SEEN FROM DROP PUNT STYLE 
KICKS...THE SILHOUETTES ALLOW FOR 
DYNAMIC MOVEMENT AND THE RUCK
MANS LANDINGS

ROVER
REINFORCED PADDING ON TONGUE 
FOR ENHANCED KICKING 
PERFORMANCE s
INTERNAL FOAM LINER
FOR INCREASED PROTECTION
VAMP PERFORATIONS
FOR INCREASED BREATHABILITY
- '
TPU OUTER SHELL
FOR BETTER FIT
TPE INNER UPPER
FOR INCREASED STRUCTURE AND 
LOCKDOWN
FORWARD
TPE ENGINEERIEDKICKING PAD 
FOR MORE POWERFUL AND PRECISE 
SHOT ON TARGET
TPE INNER UPPER
FOR INCREASED STRUCTURE
TPU OUTER SHELL 
FOR BETTER FIT
INTERNAL FOAM LINER
FOR INCREASED PROTECTION
RUCKMAN
MID TOP SILHOUETTE
FOR INCREASED LOCKDOWN
REINFORCED PADDING ON TONGUE FOR
ENHANCED KICKING PERFORMANCE
VAMP PERFORATIONS
FOR INCREASED BREATHABILITY
ssæ^sasâ^
TPU OUTER SHELL TPE INNER UPPER
FOR BETTER FIT FOR INCREASED STRUCTURE AND LOCKDOWN
INTERNAL FOAM LINER
FOR INCREASED PROTECTION
KICKING ZONE/PAD
EXPLODED VIEW CHINCHILLA FILAMENT
TPU 95A 
0.5 -1.5 MM
OUTER SHELL
CHEETAH FILAMENT 
TPU 95A 
0.5 MM
SUPPORTS/INLAYS
CHINCHILLA FILAMENT 
TPU 75A 
0.5 MM
SOCKLINER
WOVEN
4-WAY STRETCH
FOAM PADDING
%” OPEN CELL FOAM 
%” OPEN CELL FOAM
MIDSOLE
CHEETAH FILAMENT
TPU 95A
VARIES FROM 0.16-0.55MM
STROBEL
NON-WOVEN
CLEATPLATE
ARMADILLO FILAMENT
TPU 75D
2-3MM


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