When I, Nishant Fogaat, was given the opportunity to conceptualise, design & develop the first-ever sneaker for ARKS, Ranbir Kapoor’s newly launched apparel brand, I knew this would be a deeply enriching experience. Designing footwear is more than just creating a product—it’s about understanding a brand’s identity, translating a vision into form, and ensuring the final piece is both functional and timeless. This project challenged me in many ways, and looking back at the journey, I feel incredibly grateful for the experience and the trust placed in me.
Over the course of 1.5 years, we explored multiple design iterations, experimenting with materials, refining details, and improving functionality. It was a long but rewarding process of trial and improvement, where every decision was made with care to ensure the final sneaker truly reflected the essence of ARKS.
Shaping the Vision
From the start, it was clear that ARKS had a unique design philosophy—modern yet understated, premium yet approachable. Ranbir Kapoor’s personal style played a key role in guiding the sneaker’s aesthetic. We wanted something that felt effortless, timeless, and aligned with his love for clean, well-crafted footwear.
The red accent logo by TooSid became a subtle but meaningful branding element, integrated seamlessly into the design. We also looked at some of Ranbir’s most iconic footwear choices for inspiration, making sure the sneaker felt personal while also appealing to a wide audience.
Material Selection & Custom Tooling
Beyond aesthetics, ensuring the best ergonomics and material choices was a priority. Every element was carefully considered—from durability to sustainability—to create a sneaker that was as comfortable as it was stylish.
A key part of the process was developing custom shoe lasts, which form the foundation of the sneaker. To achieve the best possible quality and avoid any design overlaps, these were manufactured in Taiwan, a region known for its expertise in footwear craftsmanship.
Designing the Outsole: Function Meets Elegance
One of the most challenging yet exciting aspects of this project was designing the outsole. It had to embody the clean, silent luxury aesthetic of ARKS while offering reliable functionality and multiple surface traction. After much refinement, we arrived at a design that felt sleek, comfortable, and versatile enough for everyday wear.
Finalizing the Design: A Collaborative Effort
After many months of iteration and refinement, we finally arrived at the final design—a sneaker that blends style, craftsmanship, and practicality. It was truly a team effort, and I feel fortunate to have been part of this journey.
Looking back, this project was more than just about designing a sneaker; it was a learning experience that deepened my understanding of footwear design and brand storytelling. Seeing the final product come to life has been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m grateful to ARKS team and Ranbir Kapoor for the trust and creative freedom throughout this process.
