Master my unique 12 step design process that guarantees a production-ready sole every time
Save time, and thousands in wasted prototypes and materials.
Master my unique 12 step design process that guarantees a production-ready sole every time
5.0 ★ 50+ satisfied students
5.0 ★ 50+ satisfied students
Save time, and thousands in wasted prototypes and materials.
Why this knowledge is essential:
Avoid Costly Mistakes:
Avoid wasting your own or your clients' money by learning how to choose materials for your exact design goals and budget requirements.
Avoid Costly Mistakes:
Avoid wasting your own or your clients' money by learning how to choose materials for your exact design goals and budget requirements.
Streamline your workflow:
Avoid wasting hours by mastering a multi-step design process that was created to streamline your workflow and yield products that are ready to be manufactured.
Streamline your workflow:
Avoid wasting hours by mastering a multi-step design process that was created to streamline your workflow and yield products that are ready to be manufactured.
Future-Proof Your Skills:
Without skill-stacking, your design career is never safe, but by expanding your knowledge into niche areas such as sole design, you will thrive no matter your competition.
Future-Proof Your Skills:
Without skill-stacking, your design career is never safe, but by expanding your knowledge into niche areas such as sole design, you will thrive no matter your competition.
What you will learn:
We break down sole design from A to Z—from materials to prototype.
Part 1
The Foundations of Sole Design
Understand history, materials & molding techniques
Learn how to design efficiently—saving time & cost
Master the core principles every pro needs
Part 2
The Full Process, Step-by-Step
Learn sketching, rendering & technical pack creation
Discover mock-up creation, texturing & performance mapping
Gain the skills to bring your ideas to life
What you will learn:
We break down sole design from A to Z—from materials to prototype.
Part 1
The Foundations of Sole Design
Understand history, materials & molding techniques
Learn how to design efficiently—saving time & cost
Master the core principles every pro needs
Part 2
The Full Process, Step-by-Step
Learn sketching, rendering & technical pack creation
Discover mock-up creation, texturing & performance mapping
Gain the skills to bring your ideas to life
Here's what our students are saying:
"Defne's course was my first real introduction to the footwear world, with her I learned the whole process of sole design, from brief to final product and what makes a great, functional design. "
-Ibai Fletas 3D Designer @ Camper
"An incredibly detailed and technical course on sole design that dives deep into materials, biomechanics, and advanced manufacturing techniques. Perfect for experienced designers looking to master the complexities of sole design for funcitonality.
-Natalia Albariño Footwear Developer @ John Foos
Defne is one of the best professionals i've met in this area. She has a huge passion for sole design, is very creative and has deep technical knowledge. Without a doubt, her course has enriched my knowledge of sole design.
-João Ferraz Footwear and Sole Designer @ Forever Soles
Trusted by designers at:
If their designers trust us, you can too
If their designers trust us, you can too
Why this knowledge is essential:
Avoid Costly Mistakes:
Avoid wasting your own or your clients' money by learning how to choose materials for your exact design goals and budget requirements.
Streamline your workflow:
Avoid wasting hours by mastering a multi-step design process that was created to streamline your workflow and yield products that are ready to be manufactured.
Future-Proof Your Skills:
Without skill-stacking, your design career is never safe, but by expanding your knowledge into niche areas such as sole design, you will thrive no matter your competition.
Why this knowledge is essential:
Avoid Costly Mistakes:
Avoid wasting your own or your clients' money by learning how to choose materials for your exact design goals and budget requirements.
Streamline your workflow:
Avoid wasting precious hours by mastering a multi-step design process that was designed to streamline your workflow so you can design soles that are ready to be manufactured.
Future-Proof Your Skills:
Without skill-stacking, your design career is never safe, but by expanding your knowledge into niche areas such as sole design, you will thrive no matter your competition.
Top Features
Top Features
You'll receive:
You'll receive:
4.5+ hours of expert training – Master the materials & the complete sole design process
4.5+ hours of expert training – Master the materials & the complete sole design process
Exclusive Designer Community – Lifetime access to our Discord network where you can connect with other experts & peers.
Exclusive Designer Community – Lifetime access to our Discord network where you can connect with other experts & peers.
Industry cheat sheets – Downloadable PDFs packed with insider tips & shortcuts to accelerate your learning.
Industry cheat sheets – Downloadable PDFs packed with insider tips & shortcuts to accelerate your learning.
Live expert support – Bi-weekly group calls where you can ask questions, gain insights, and stay ahead.
Live expert support – Bi-weekly group calls where you can ask questions, gain insights, and stay ahead.
Access to our exclusive bi-weekly group calls, network and have your questions answered by experts
Access to our exclusive bi-weekly group calls, network and have your questions answered by experts
Contents:
You'll learn the fundamental aspects of soles. Materials, their features and weaknesses, the different moulding types, the different sole parts and how they interact with eachother. And you will also learn the unique 12-step design process that guarantees a production sole every time.
Chapter 1
The Fundamentals of Sole Design
Lay the foundation for professional sole design. Discover the history, materials, and molding techniques. Learn how to save time, reduce costs, and enhance durability—ensuring you design with confidence from day one.
Chapter 2
From Concept to Prototype: The Complete Process
Learn how to bring your ideas to life efficiently. Master sketching, rendering, and technical pack creation, while understanding how texturing and performance mapping streamline production and improve functionality.
Here's what our students are saying:
"Defne's course was my first real introduction to the footwear world, with her I learned the whole process of sole design, from brief to final product and what makes a great, functional design. There is not.a day I won't use the knowledge she taught me."
-Ibai Fletas 3D Designer @ Camper
"Defne's course was my first real introduction to the footwear world, with her I learned the whole process of sole design, from brief to final product and what makes a great, functional design. There is not.a day I won't use the knowledge she taught me."
-Ibai Fletas 3D Designer @ Camper
"As a passionate footwear designer, I had the opportunity to enter the world of sole design through this course taught by Defne. From the beginning, it was clear that this was not just any tutorial, but an elaborate journey into the heart of footwear manufacturing."
-Natalia Albariño Footwear Developer @ John Foos
"As a passionate footwear designer, I had the opportunity to enter the world of sole design through this course taught by Defne. From the beginning, it was clear that this was not just any tutorial, but an elaborate journey into the heart of footwear manufacturing."
-Natalia Albariño Footwear Developer @ John Foos
"Defne is one of the best professionals i've met in this area. She has a huge passion for sole design, is very creative and has deep technical knowledge. Without a doubt, her course has enriched my knowledge of sole design."
-João Ferraz Footwear and Sole Designer @ Forever Soles
"Defne is one of the best professionals i've met in this area. She has a huge passion for sole design, is very creative and has deep technical knowledge. Without a doubt, her course has enriched my knowledge of sole design."
-João Ferraz Footwear and Sole Designer @ Forever Soles
Secure your career growth in 2025 with skill-stacking:
Secure your career growth in 2025 with skill-stacking:
Fast-Track to Sole Design
€380
7-day Money Back Guarantee
Perfect for designers who want to learn the fundamentals & apply them fast.
Master the essentials – Learn the critical concepts behind sole types, moulding types, materials, and the manufacturing process.
Avoid beginner mistakes – Understand what makes a sole design functional, stylish, and production-ready.
Connect with the community – Lifetime Discord access for feedback & networking.
Stay ahead – Get new insights in bi-weekly live webinars.
Self-paced learning – 1-year unlimited access.
7-day money-back guarantee—no risk, all reward.
Upgrade later? Your €380 investment is deducted from the full masterclass price!
Fast-Track to Sole Design
€380
7-day Money Back Guarantee
Perfect for designers who want to learn the fundamentals & apply them fast.
Master the essentials – Learn the critical concepts behind sole types, moulding types, materials, and the manufacturing process.
Avoid beginner mistakes – Understand what makes a sole design functional, stylish, and production-ready.
Connect with the community – Lifetime Discord access for feedback & networking.
Stay ahead – Get new insights in bi-weekly live webinars.
Self-paced learning – 1-year unlimited access.
7-day money-back guarantee—no risk, all reward.
Upgrade later? Your €380 investment is deducted from the full masterclass price!
Fast-Track to Sole Design
€380
7-day Money Back Guarantee
Perfect for designers who want to learn the fundamentals & apply them fast.
Master the essentials – Learn the critical concepts behind sole types, moulding types, materials, and the manufacturing process.
Avoid beginner mistakes – Understand what makes a sole design functional, stylish, and production-ready.
Connect with the community – Lifetime Discord access for feedback & networking.
Stay ahead – Get new insights in bi-weekly live webinars.
Self-paced learning – 1-year unlimited access.
7-day money-back guarantee—no risk, all reward.
Upgrade later? Your €380 investment is deducted from the full masterclass price!
Your New Skills Await:
01 Professional Sole Design:
01 Professional Sole Design
Introduction
2:52
The Importance of Sole Design
06:09
The History of Soles
02:54
Cupsoles
03:42
Blockers
02:44
Half-soles and Top-lifts
09:50
Vulcanised Soles
03:51
Multi-Material Soles
05:54
3D Printed Soles
04:28
Sole Materials: Rubber
05:11
Sole Materials: EVA
02:34
Sole Materials: PU
02:17
Sole Materials: TPU
07:11
Sole Materials: Carbon Fiber and Gel
02:14
Moulding Types: Compression Moulding
20:31
Moulding Types: Injection Moulding
10:57
Moulding Types: Direct Injection Moulding
14:34
02 The Entire Process: Explained
Steps of Sole Design
09:05
Timing Brief to Proto
06:15
Briefing
08:05
Last and Lasted Upper
10:30
Sketching
13:31
Thinking in 3D
02:53
Definitive Black and White Design
03:18
Rendering
13:28
Preparing Tech-Pack
14:06
2D Design Check
26:07
3D Design Check
03:53
Mock-Up
25:17
Textures and Finishings
18:34
Technical Map
03:46
Sample Sole Check
03:10
Sole and Upper Integration
04:53
Ready to see it
all for yourself?
Here's what our students say:
(Reviews refer to our Complete masterclass)
Here's what our students say:
(Reviews refer to our Complete masterclass)
João Ferraz
Footwear Designer @ Forever Soles
"Defne is one of the best professionals i've met in this area. She has a huge passion for sole design, is very creative and has deep technical knowledge. Without a doubt, her course has enriched my knowledge of sole design. For those who want to develop deep knowledge in this area, Defne is one of the leaders worldwide."
"Defne is one of the best professionals i've met in this area. She has a huge passion for sole design, is very creative and has deep technical knowledge. Without a doubt, her course has enriched my knowledge of sole design. For those who want to develop deep knowledge in this area, Defne is one of the leaders worldwide."
Ibai Fletas
3D Designer @ Camper
"Defne's course was my first real introduction to the footwear world, with her I learned the whole process of sole design, from brief to final product and what makes a great, functional design. There is not a day I won't use the knowledge she taught me."
"Defne's course was my first real introduction to the footwear world, with her I learned the whole process of sole design, from brief to final product and what makes a great, functional design. There is not a day I won't use the knowledge she taught me."
Fatma Zehra Ermez
Industrial Designer @ YDS
"As someone from within the industry, I believe that the sole design course is very professional and detailed. Even if one is involved in production, acquiring this know-how will take a lot of time. Therefore, it's wonderful that such a wealth of knowledge is being provided in such a short time. Additionally, the practical training between the chapters is very good for experiencing what has been taught.
I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making such a course accessible to users."
"As someone from within the industry, I believe that the sole design course is very professional and detailed. Even if one is involved in production, acquiring this know-how will take a lot of time. Therefore, it's wonderful that such a wealth of knowledge is being provided in such a short time. Additionally, the practical training between the chapters is very good for experiencing what has been taught.
I would like to thank everyone who contributed to making such a course accessible to users."
Jennifer Jennings
Footwear Design Lead @ Old Navy
"I had the pleasure of taking Defne’s Professional Sole Design Masterclass. Her
professional experience in outsole and footwear design was taught in an understandable and approachable way. Her presentations were always engaging and clear. Although we were a few time zones apart, she was always timely with answering
any questions I had. I highly recommend taking her courses."
"I had the pleasure of taking Defne’s Professional Sole Design Masterclass. Her
professional experience in outsole and footwear design was taught in an understandable and approachable way. Her presentations were always engaging and clear. Although we were a few time zones apart, she was always timely with answering
any questions I had. I highly recommend taking her courses."
Tatiana Kalashnik
Lead Footwear Designer
"First of all, thank you so much for your course—it was a true treasure. I have a degree in footwear technology and over 10 years of experience, but the detailed knowledge about soles you provided was something we never learned in university. Before your course, sole development was trial and error for me.
After completing your course, everything changed. As the lead designer for a women’s line, I developed over 15 soles in two seasons, and my colleagues began coming to me for advice.
When I moved to the U.S. from Ukraine, the course helped me to quickly land a job. Developing soles is now a major part of my role, and I no longer need to consult others. By the way, my less-than-perfect English didn’t stop me from succeeding at an American company, as my portfolio and knowledge spoke for themselves."
"First of all, thank you so much for your course—it was a true treasure. I have a degree in footwear technology and over 10 years of experience, but the detailed knowledge about soles you provided was something we never learned in university. Before your course, sole development was trial and error for me.
After completing your course, everything changed. As the lead designer for a women’s line, I developed over 15 soles in two seasons, and my colleagues began coming to me for advice.
When I moved to the U.S. from Ukraine, the course helped me to quickly land a job. Developing soles is now a major part of my role, and I no longer need to consult others. By the way, my less-than-perfect English didn’t stop me from succeeding at an American company, as my portfolio and knowledge spoke for themselves."
Charles Astrella
Senior Designer @ Footsoldiers
"I can certainly say that the course was invaluable to me, not just in learning some key fundamentals of sole design in a variety of categories, but also in getting a clear and detailed insight into the benefits and limitations of various manufacturing techniques and processes. I have never actually had the opportunity to visit a factory in person, but I am sure your course has worked wonders to help me bridge that gap."
"I can certainly say that the course was invaluable to me, not just in learning some key fundamentals of sole design in a variety of categories, but also in getting a clear and detailed insight into the benefits and limitations of various manufacturing techniques and processes. I have never actually had the opportunity to visit a factory in person, but I am sure your course has worked wonders to help me bridge that gap."
Coby Laureijs
Freelance Footwear Designer @ Tamaris
"The course is very broad as it shares information about functionalities of outsole designs for example performance shoes, but it also covers the benefits of materials and why to use them. My favorite parts were the assignments to create our own outsoles. To share and see what classmates have created and get professional feedback from Defne was incredibly valuable. She is a true professional."
"The course is very broad as it shares information about functionalities of outsole designs for example performance shoes, but it also covers the benefits of materials and why to use them. My favorite parts were the assignments to create our own outsoles. To share and see what classmates have created and get professional feedback from Defne was incredibly valuable. She is a true professional."
Ingrid Brandth
Designer / Developer of Athletic Footwear
"I am impressed by all the information you put together. You have a very clear, fun and easy way of communicating everything. I especially enjoyed watching your live sole design process. This is truly very unique and so cool!"
"I am impressed by all the information you put together. You have a very clear, fun and easy way of communicating everything. I especially enjoyed watching your live sole design process. This is truly very unique and so cool!"
Natalia Albariño
Footwear Developer JOHN FOOS
"From the beginning, it was clear that this was not just any tutorial, but an elaborate journey into the heart of footwear manufacturing.
Every facet of sole design was covered in meticulous detail.
The course has abundant examples of different types of soles on the market, which show the complexities of the manufacturing processes. Additionally, seeing Defne's personal design approach adds an intriguing dimension, offering insights into creativity and problem-solving that complement the course's technical content."
"From the beginning, it was clear that this was not just any tutorial, but an elaborate journey into the heart of footwear manufacturing.
Every facet of sole design was covered in meticulous detail.
The course has abundant examples of different types of soles on the market, which show the complexities of the manufacturing processes. Additionally, seeing Defne's personal design approach adds an intriguing dimension, offering insights into creativity and problem-solving that complement the course's technical content."
Marieke Veneklaas
Shoe Technologist
"Thanks for everything you share in this course! It is really inspiring to see you sketching, and while sketching myself, I've realized how much information you know and apply instantly."
"Thanks for everything you share in this course! It is really inspiring to see you sketching, and while sketching myself, I've realized how much information you know and apply instantly."
Elizaveta Timar
Footwear Developer @ Birkenstock
"You can get this knowledge just through work experience, no other way, therefore it is very valuable. These days I am preparing to change my footwear sector from sport/ casual, to more high-performance, I believe your course will help me have a much better start!"
"You can get this knowledge just through work experience, no other way, therefore it is very valuable. These days I am preparing to change my footwear sector from sport/ casual, to more high-performance, I believe your course will help me have a much better start!"
Eleonora Aquili
Design Coordinator @ Michelin
"It was a very thorough course where I could improve and amplify my knowledge about design, materials, moulds and processes for the design and development of soles. Defne is an invaluable resource, professional and expert in the sector, who was always very helpful and precise."
"It was a very thorough course where I could improve and amplify my knowledge about design, materials, moulds and processes for the design and development of soles. Defne is an invaluable resource, professional and expert in the sector, who was always very helpful and precise."
Your New Skills Await:
01 Professional Sole Design
Introduction
2:52
The Importance of Sole Design
06:09
The History of Soles
02:54
Cupsoles
03:42
Blockers
02:44
Half-soles and Top-lifts
09:50
Vulcanised Soles
03:51
Multi-Material Soles
05:54
3D Printed Soles
04:28
Sole Materials: Rubber
05:11
Sole Materials: EVA
02:34
Sole Materials: PU
02:17
Sole Materials: TPU
07:11
Sole Materials: Carbon Fiber and Gel
02:14
Moulding Types: Compression Moulding
20:31
Moulding Types: Injection Moulding
10:57
Moulding Types: Direct Injection Moulding
14:34
02 The Entire Process: Explained
Steps of Sole Design
09:05
Timing Brief to Proto
06:15
Briefing
08:05
Last and Lasted Upper
10:30
Sketching
13:31
Thinking in 3D
02:53
Definitive Black and White Design
03:18
Rendering
13:28
Preparing Tech-Pack
14:06
2D Design Check
26:07
3D Design Check
03:53
Mock-Up
25:17
Textures and Finishings
18:34
Technical Map
03:46
Sample Sole Check
03:10
Sole and Upper Integration
04:53