The Department of Product Design is celebrating the well-deserved award earned by second-year Sports Product Design student, John Helf SPD '25, who participated in the 2024 Global Footwear Awards (GFA). The GFA acknowledges ground-breaking footwear designs with the highest global recognition across different business entities, including professionals and emerging young designers. More than 250 entries from 32 countries participated in the fifth edition of this competition and each entry highlighted the diverse spectrum of designs that are seen in the shoe industry with entries seeking to redefine the art and function of footwear. Helf was listed on the shortlist of winners and was recognized by the competition's judges as the Emerging Footwear Designer of the Year 2024 for his project, elevè.
Helf's project is described as a ballet training shoe designed to help new ballet dancers learn proper form. Featuring elastic straps, a three-dimensional printed thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) toe and heel cages, as well as soft, sweat-wicking materials. The judges recognized the shoe for its "thoughtful design aids in developing proper form while protecting against overuse injuries, blending artistry with performance science." Helf's shoe holds the foot in plantar flexion, a helpful orientation of the foot in a downward movement that is used by dancers in practice and training. By holding the foot in that position, the athlete can train and strengthen without overusing the muscles and ligaments, thanks to the support of the shoe, and can avoid future injuries related to the movements.
Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Helf is a footwear designer who is passionate about helping others build community through storytelling and intentional training. His love of athletics and aesthetics provided the perfect groundwork for pursuing his master's in Sports Product Design at the University of Oregon, where he intends to further his mission to empower individuals to embrace their strengths and stories. Prior to beginning his journey at the University of Oregon, John earned a Bachelor of Science in Film Studies and a Master of Science in Design + Innovation from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Through these programs, John learned skills in design thinking, research methodology, as well as graphic, communication, and product design.In his free time, John loves going to the gym, working on his fantasy novel, and adding to his sneaker collection.