innovation + advanced concepts
Proven leader in building high-performing innovation and GenAI/3D visualization teams, driving strategy through roadmapping, concept creation, and execution. Expert at integrating new technologies and partnerships to unlock design potential and deliver breakthrough solutions. ​​
The Vans AVE 2.0 Knit - Ultimate Waffle evolution
Neal Shoemaker’s updated design delivers Vans’ most durable, grippiest skate shoe, with Brian Best’s warped waffle tread, Bio-TPU shank support, and a seamless RapidWeld suede upper.
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Nate Iott's 2020 rough kickoff sketch: Bio-based TPU enables a grippier, more durable rubber compound and improved Ultimate Waffle support with fewer components
Max Vorlop's designs for the AVE signature apparel collection.
Vans Ultimate Waffle construction
In collaboration with BMW Designworks. The design provocation was simple: "make it visible" - create the ultimate skateboarding shoe with uncompromised in durability, grip, protection and support.
The Ultimate Waffle; Durability, Grip, Support without compromise. Visual design language representing each essential skateboarding need.
The Ultimate Waffle; Durability, Grip, Support without compromise. Visual design language representing each essential skateboarding need.
Right; Nate Iott's first Ultimate Waffle concept sketch; "Make it visible"
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Performance benefits; Support, protection, & cushioning shown through a transparent rubber outsole.
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Neal Shoemaker's selected design and process work.
Skateboarding Durability Research
Video: Durastitch, developed with VF’s Innovation Center, delivers skate-specific durability with breathability and flexibility. Featured in the limited AVE Pro EXP (2021). Concept by Nate Iott; final design by Neal Shoemaker with Anthony Van Engelen and F.A.
Years of experimentation and development have helped Vans Skateboarding build some of the best performing, most durable skateboarding shoes ever made.
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Lab test results comparing Vans rubber formulas, foam compounds, and upper materials/constructions to the athletic footwear giants is shown above.
Cushioning - informed by performance skateboarding
The Zahba "Impact Waffle" construction featuring a new dual durometer 50% bio-based compression EVA midsole foam.
The UltraRange Neo followed using an injected version of Vans' 50% bio-based EVA.
It instantly had great feedback on its comfort and cushioning.
Trail running competitor set testing shows how the 2024 Vans CrossPath's underfoot cushioning data compares well with Nike React and other polymer based foam compounds that do not have sustainable or bio-based ingredients.
Cushioning indexs using various lab tests (compliance and resilience in this example) are used to visually explain the performance properties of outsole stack design and foam properties.