Sno-Gro BootsEveryday winter boots that can expand up to three sizes, saving families money and keeping perfectly good boots out of landfills.
A team of four manufacturing and design engineering students developed an innovative solution for their senior capstone project: expandable winter boots that can grow with children's feet. The project, called Sno-Gro Boots, aims to create footwear that lasts for more than just one season, addressing both economic and environmental concerns.
Problem
Many families face the recurring expense of buying new winter boots for growing children each year. This is particularly challenging for low-income families, as shared by team member Joanne Park, who grew up wearing hand-me-downs. Additionally, the frequent replacement of barely worn boots contributes to waste in the shoe industry. The team identified a gap in the market for size-adjustable everyday winter footwear.
Solution
The Sno-Gro Boot is designed to expand up to three sizes, featuring an innovative "accordion" middle section that allows the boot to stretch. The heel locks in at different positions for various sizes, enabling the boot to grow with the child's foot. The team drew inspiration from expandable ice skates, Rollerblades, and ski shoes, but aimed to create a more flexible design suitable for everyday winter wear.
Current Status
After successfully creating a prototype in the Segal Prototyping and Fabrication Lab that could fit team members with different shoe sizes, the team has filed a provisional patent for their unique design. Since graduating in spring 2024, they met with manufacturers to explore bringing the Sno-Gro Boot to market. The goal is to create a product that balances durability, affordability, and sustainability, potentially revolutionizing the children's winter footwear market.