2025 | Professional

French Design Awards Gold Winner

WAXE Trail Guardian Trail Running Shoes

Entrant

Outai Sporting Goods Trading (Wenling) Co., Ltd.

Category

Fashion Design - Footwear

Client's Name

WAXE

Country / Region

China

Tailored to the foot shape of Asian runners, the series adopts a wide last to relieve foot pressure, while the forward-extended shoelaces ensure a snug, adjustable fit that enhances overall comfort. The outsole features deep, serrated grooves with a lightweight hollow structure, delivering outstanding grip while reducing the overall weight. A trapezoidal midsole prevents overpronation, offering dependable stability and protection on rugged terrain. Available in a full size range, the series enables runners of all ages to enjoy a professional-grade trail experience.
The design of the shoes draws inspiration from the guardian spirit of patrolling the mountains. The flowing lines of shoe’s body mirror the rise and fall of mountain ranges, while the sole grooves echo the characteristics of natural landforms, reflecting the Chinese philosophy of coexistence between humanity and nature. The color scheme draws on the elements from Western China, with tones such as “White Yak” and “Red Canyon” evoking the reverence for the mountains and a shared cultural bond. Through biomechanical upgrades, the shoes achieve a balance of cultural expression and functional performance.
The upper is crafted from eco-friendly microfiber, a material that is soft, durable, and biodegradable—aligning with WAXE’s vision of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Paired with the waterproof, breathable Nimbus™ protective membrane, it offers long-lasting durability and sustainability, extending the product’s lifecycle and reducing environmental impact.

Credits

Designer
YIMING ZHU
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