--- description: 3D-printed sustainable sneakers by Zellerfeld are fully recyclable and come in distinct patterns & colors to match your style. title: Step Sustainably with Recyclable 3D-Printed Sneakers from Zellerfeld - Energy Theory image: https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Step-Sustainably-with-Recyclable-3D-Printed-Sneakers-from-Zellerfeld.png --- Close Menu - [About](https://energytheory.com/about-us/) - [EV](https://energytheory.com/category/electric-vehicles/) - [FAQs](https://energytheory.com/category/faqs/) - [Glossary](https://energytheory.com/category/glossary/) - [Green](https://energytheory.com/category/green/) - [Renewable](https://energytheory.com/category/renewable/) - [Sustainable](https://energytheory.com/category/sustainable/) - [Energy Economy](https://energytheory.com/category/energy-economy/) - [Energy Services](https://energytheory.com/category/energy-services/) - [Solar](https://energytheory.com/category/solar/) - [Sustainable](https://energytheory.com/category/sustainable/) - [News](https://energytheory.com/category/latest-news/) - Language [![Energy Theory](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2e3rtgthghnm.png)](https://energytheory.com/ "Energy Theory") ![en](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/en.svg) English ![es](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/es.svg) Spanish ![fr](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/fr.svg) French ![en](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/en.svg) English ![it](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/it.svg) Italian ![zh-CN](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/zh-CN.svg) Chinese (Simplified) ![nl](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/nl.svg) Dutch ![fi](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/fi.svg) Finnish ![de](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/de.svg) German ![hi](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/hi.svg) Hindi ![ja](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/ja.svg) Japanese ![pl](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/pl.svg) Polish ![pt](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/pt.svg) Portuguese ![ru](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/ru.svg) Russian [![Energy Theory](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2e3rtgthghnm.png)](https://energytheory.com/ "Energy Theory") ![en](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/en.svg) English ![es](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/es.svg) Spanish ![fr](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/fr.svg) French ![en](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/en.svg) English ![it](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/it.svg) Italian ![zh-CN](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/zh-CN.svg) Chinese (Simplified) ![nl](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/nl.svg) Dutch ![fi](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/fi.svg) Finnish ![de](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/de.svg) German ![hi](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/hi.svg) Hindi ![ja](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/ja.svg) Japanese ![pl](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/pl.svg) Polish ![pt](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/pt.svg) Portuguese ![ru](https://cdn.gtranslate.net/flags/svg/ru.svg) Russian [Latest News](https://energytheory.com/category/latest-news/) # Step Sustainably with Recyclable 3D-Printed Sneakers from Zellerfeld By [Elliot Clark](https://energytheory.com/author/elliot_clark/)December 2, 20234 Mins Read ![3D-printed sustainable sneakers by Zellerfeld](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Step-Sustainably-with-Recyclable-3D-Printed-Sneakers-from-Zellerfeld-1024x683.webp "Step Sustainably with Recyclable 3D-Printed Sneakers from Zellerfeld") Adopting sustainability is the need of the hour, but the shift becomes easier when industries understand and prioritize the same. Both consumers and producers are unbothered by the fact that millions of shoes end up in landfills, causing more land pollution. But **3D-printed sustainable sneakers by Zellerfeld c**an be returned to the company instead of throwing them away. These will be recycled and made into new shoes, leaving no waste behind. The innovative 3D-printed sneakers are made only with thermoplastic polyurethane, so there are **no difficulties in recycling** it due to mixed materials. When the shoes are no longer used or at the end of a season, they can be returned to [Zellerfeld](https://www.zellerfeld.com/) to be transformed into new designs. As Zellerfeld states, none of these shoes are manufactured in traditional factories. Instead, they are **printed using innovative methods**, making them fully recyclable. [Cornelius Schmitt](https://de.linkedin.com/in/cornelius-schmitt), CEO and co-founder of Zellerfeld, has grand ambitions: to put fully recyclable 3D-printed shoes on every foot in the world. The company **currently uses 200 3D-printers** of its own design to create custom-fitted shoes based on smartphone scans of the buyer’s feet. The company has **collaborated with famous designers** to create a variety of sneakers and sandals, and there are more collaborations coming soon. Zellerfeld’s 3D-printed footwear platform is revolutionizing the footwear industry. This platform allows designers and brands to release new designs quickly, eliminating sweatshops and human rights violations. ### **About the Zellerfeld’s Recyclable Sneakers** ![Zellerfeld’s recyclable sneakers](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Amoeba-Baby-Zell-1024x683.webp) *Pic Credits: Zellerfeld* Eco-friendly sneakers by Zellerfeld showcase a remarkable design that perfectly complements the futuristic style of their recyclable footwear. #### **1. Unique Collections** With eye-catching bulging dots, luxurious crocodile skins, chic swing-style loafers, and unique boat-shaped smiles, their footwear truly stands out. Moreover, for those who prefer closed-toe shoes, there is a **diverse range of designs** to choose from, including boots-like options and stylish office sneakers. You will undoubtedly find your own perfect pair in [Zellerfeld’s captivating collection](https://www.zellerfeld.com/catalog). #### **2. Intelligently Designed** In addition, the **company highlights** that the shoe materials are designed to make them not only machine washable and quick drying but also resistant to odor. #### **3. Perfect Fit** To ensure a perfect fit, customers can simply **download the company’s app, scan their feet** (yes, they can point the camera at their feet), and leave the rest to Zellerfeld. And that’s not all – if clients desire, they have the option to personalize the shoebox that accompanies their customized 3D-printed footwear. #### **4. The Process** The technology responsible for the firm’s eco-friendly sneakers is not widely known, but it is said to have been **developed by CEO Cornelius Shmitt** over the past years. **Also See**: [How can the Fashion Industry be more Sustainable?](https://energytheory.com/how-can-the-fashion-industry-be-more-sustainable/) ### **About the Founder of Zellerfeld’s Recyclable 3D Printed Sneakers** Cornelius Schmitt, a German industrial engineer, is the visionary behind the of the **world’s first fully 3D printed sneaker**. Originally from Momberg in Germany, Schmitt now serves as the esteemed CEO and co-founder of the Zellerfeld Shoe Company Inc. During their time at [Clausthal University of Technology](https://www.tu-clausthal.de/en/), Cornelius Schmitt, 21 at that time, and [Vinzent Olszok](https://de.linkedin.com/in/vinzent-olszok-959731194) 23, **embarked on an exciting journey** into the world of thermoplastics. Driven by their passion for the processing technology of these unique materials, they decided to **construct their own extruder.** This ingenious machine would allow them to create finely shaped pieces from thermoplastic substances. Aware of the complexities involved, they wisely sought the expertise of the Institute for [Polymer Materials and Plastics Technology (PuK)](https://de.linkedin.com/in/vinzent-olszok-959731194) to guide them along the way. Their dedication and enthusiasm for this revolutionary technology led them to **acquire a laboratory extruder,** taking their fascination with extrusion to a whole new level. **Also See**: [Walk Eco-Friendly with Sugarcane Loafers by Reroute](https://energytheory.com/walk-eco-friendly-with-sugarcane-loafers-by-reroute/) ### **About Zellerfeld** ![eco-friendly sneakers by Zellerfeld](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Home-page-zellerfeld-1024x683.webp) *Pic Credits: Zellerfeld* 3D-printed sustainable sneakers by Zellerfeld revolutionized the shoe industry, but the company was established in the year 2015, having presence in both **Germany and the United States.** Then in 2019, Cornelius Schmitt and [Lennard Stoever](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lennardstoever/?originalSubdomain=de) came together to establish the Zellerfeld Shoe Company Inc. Fast-forward to the present day, Zellerfeld has made a name for itself by **joining with renowned designers** like [Heron Preston](https://www.heronpreston.com/), [KidSuper](https://kidsuper.com/), [Finn Rush-Taylor](https://www.finnrushtaylorstudio.com/), and [Yoon Ambush](https://www.ambushdesign.com/). Together, they have revolutionized the industry with their avant-garde approach to 3D printed footwear. With the latest and more innovative collections, Zellerfeld’s forward-thinking approach to footwear design, which experts believe is the future of footwear manufacturing, makes it the most [influential invention of 2023](https://time.com/collection/best-inventions-2023/6324103/zellerfeld-3d-printed-shoes/). Source: [Zellerfeld’s 3D-Printed Shoes](https://www.zellerfeld.com/) Share. [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fenergytheory.com%2Fstep-sustainably-with-recyclable-3d-printed-sneakers-from-zellerfeld%2F "Share on Facebook") [Twitter](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fenergytheory.com%2Fstep-sustainably-with-recyclable-3d-printed-sneakers-from-zellerfeld%2F&text=Step%20Sustainably%20with%20Recyclable%203D-Printed%20Sneakers%20from%20Zellerfeld "Share on X (Twitter)") [Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fenergytheory.com%2Fstep-sustainably-with-recyclable-3d-printed-sneakers-from-zellerfeld%2F&media=https%3A%2F%2Fenergytheory.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F12%2FStep-Sustainably-with-Recyclable-3D-Printed-Sneakers-from-Zellerfeld.webp&description=Step%20Sustainably%20with%20Recyclable%203D-Printed%20Sneakers%20from%20Zellerfeld "Share on Pinterest") [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fenergytheory.com%2Fstep-sustainably-with-recyclable-3d-printed-sneakers-from-zellerfeld%2F "Share on LinkedIn") [Tumblr](https://www.tumblr.com/share/link?url=https%3A%2F%2Fenergytheory.com%2Fstep-sustainably-with-recyclable-3d-printed-sneakers-from-zellerfeld%2F&name=Step%20Sustainably%20with%20Recyclable%203D-Printed%20Sneakers%20from%20Zellerfeld "Share on Tumblr") [Telegram](https://t.me/share/url?url=https%3A%2F%2Fenergytheory.com%2Fstep-sustainably-with-recyclable-3d-printed-sneakers-from-zellerfeld%2F&title=Step%20Sustainably%20with%20Recyclable%203D-Printed%20Sneakers%20from%20Zellerfeld "Share on Telegram") [Email](mailto:?subject=Step%20Sustainably%20with%20Recyclable%203D-Printed%20Sneakers%20from%20Zellerfeld&body=https%3A%2F%2Fenergytheory.com%2Fstep-sustainably-with-recyclable-3d-printed-sneakers-from-zellerfeld%2F "Share via Email") ![mm](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Elliot1-150x150.jpg) [Elliot Clark](https://energytheory.com/author/elliot_clark/) Elliot is a passionate environmentalist and blogger who has dedicated his life to spreading awareness about conservation, green energy, and renewable energy. With a background in environmental science, he has a deep understanding of the issues facing our planet and is committed to educating others on how they can make a difference. #### Related Posts [![31.6% Efficient Perovskite Silicon Tandem Solar Cell by Fraunhofer ISE](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/31.6-300x200.webp "31.6% Efficient Perovskite Silicon Tandem Solar Cell by Fraunhofer ISE")](https://energytheory.com/31-6-efficient-perovskite-silicon-tandem-solar-cell-by-fraunhofer-ise/ "31.6% Efficient Perovskite Silicon Tandem Solar Cell by Fraunhofer ISE") #### [31.6% Efficient Perovskite Silicon Tandem Solar Cell by Fraunhofer ISE](https://energytheory.com/31-6-efficient-perovskite-silicon-tandem-solar-cell-by-fraunhofer-ise/) September 27, 2024 [![24.2% Efficient POLO Back Junction Solar Cell Built with PECVD by ISFH and Centrotherm Scientists](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/24.2-Efficient-POLO-Back-Junction-Solar-Cell-Built-with-PECVD-by-ISFH-and-Centrotherm-Scientists-300x200.webp "24.2% Efficient POLO Back Junction Solar Cell Built with PECVD by ISFH and Centrotherm Scientists")](https://energytheory.com/24-2-efficient-polo-back-junction-solar-cell-built-with-pecvd-by-isfh-and-centrotherm-scientists/ "24.2% Efficient POLO Back Junction Solar Cell Built with PECVD by ISFH and Centrotherm Scientists") #### [24.2% Efficient POLO Back Junction Solar Cell Built with PECVD by ISFH and Centrotherm Scientists](https://energytheory.com/24-2-efficient-polo-back-junction-solar-cell-built-with-pecvd-by-isfh-and-centrotherm-scientists/) September 25, 2024 [![New Walkable PV Panels by Hungary-based Platio Solar](https://energytheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/New-Walkable-PV-Panels-by-Hungary-based-Platio-Solar-300x200.webp "New Walkable PV Panels by Hungary-based Platio Solar")](https://energytheory.com/new-walkable-pv-panels-by-hungary-based-platio-solar/ "New Walkable PV Panels by Hungary-based Platio Solar") #### [New Walkable PV Panels by Hungary-based Platio Solar](https://energytheory.com/new-walkable-pv-panels-by-hungary-based-platio-solar/) September 24, 2024 Add A Comment Leave A Reply [Cancel Reply](https://energytheory.com/step-sustainably-with-recyclable-3d-printed-sneakers-from-zellerfeld/#respond) Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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