words_Brandon Richard
Last month, Reebok launched a partnership with American-based car manufacturer Local Motors. This collaborative effort resulted in the announcement of the Reebok x Local Motors Rally Fighter ZigTech Design Competition. Using interactive critiquing and judging, designers had the opportunity to create a Rally Fighter inspired ZigTech sneaker, a vehicle that was actually designed by Local Motors' online creative community. The process allowed designers to present their concepts in the "Check Up" area of the Local Motors website prior to making a final submission.
After weeks of designing and judging, a winning design has been chosen. With a shoe that incorporates the best of Reebok's Sport Performance and Lifestyle lines, Matthew Choto's Reebok Rally Fighter is your winner. Details of Matthews shoe include a nomex-lined durable leather upper, Rally Fighter branded high ankle strap and laser etched detailing. Matthew said he chose the laser detailing to help cut back on production costs.
Matthew's concept will now be turned into a Prototype at Reebok's design headquarters in Canton, Massachusetts. Additionally, he's been invited to spend three days at headquarters to watch his design come to life. "We have seen some amazing designs in answer to this competition brief and Matthew Choto’s entry really stood out – that’s clear from the votes he received," said Reebok Global Creative Director Michael Schaeffer. "His design is a perfect mix between performance and lifestyle with an interesting combination of colors and materials – this design was simple with an easy to understand concept." This contest marked the first time a major sports brand worked with the global creative community from the automotive industry to design a training shoe.
Second prize went to Greg Macy and his Reebok LMRF Boa-Fighter shoe. Macy's design was inspired by the aviation heritage of the Rally Fighter. Taking home third place was Anthony Colard, whose Local Zig shoe featured high-end functionality and bold, colorful aesthetics.
Take a look at the winning design and specs from Matthew Choto below. Also pictured are the second and third place designs by Greg Macy and Anthony Colard. Visit the Competition Page over at Local Motors to see more concepts and designs.
1st Place - Matthew Choto
2nd Place - Greg Macy
3rd Place - Anthony Colard
