The “Equity Shoe” is a cycling shoe that aims to build visibility to gender disparity in sport and beyond by offering an option that evokes curiosity and conversation with its unique technical offerings and messaging colors and symbolism.

I plan to further this design by exploring in greater detail the ratchet strap system that addresses user comfort benefits and an alternative to existing performance cycling shoe closure systems as well as the side-zip-boot inspired zipper closure. Introducing distinctive technical systems should provide greater opportunity to stimulate conversation. This conversation would then lead into the symbolism and messaging contained on the shoe bringing awareness to the problem of gender equity.