Barefoot minimalist running sock sole

thingiverse

Hi fellow barefoot and minimalist running enthusiasts! I created this project to fill the gap between actual barefoot running, which is still too chilly for me, and commercial barefoot shoes like Vibrams that have a sole that's way too thick and stiff. I was inspired by DIY spray-on rubber socks (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRCXy_UHPVc) that I used for about a year of running until they wore off. Now, with my 3D printer, I've developed an easier method to produce them that's less smelly and effort-intensive. The sock only protects your forefoot, which is all you need as a barefoot runner, making it possible to print these on smaller printers too! During a 6k run through winter mud and stones, I was impressed by how well they worked and seemed stable. I think they'll hold up for 100ks. Print the sole with any elastic filament - I used Willowflex from 3dk.berlin. The carrier frame is designed for an Anet A8 220mm build plate to be clamped on (let me know if you have other dimensions). You need to load the file into Fusion 360 and adjust the parameters as needed. Video: https://imgur.com/gallery/mLIFmrm Here are the instructions: First, print out the tolerance tests and find the one that can snap into your sock and hold the fabric in place. Then, print the carrier frame for that tolerance, making sure it's not upside down - this ensures a sloped bed doesn't add to precision loss. Measure its exact position on the build plate for the sole print. Next, print the core. Hold the sock fabric under tension by putting the core into the sock, wear the sock on your foot, and snap it into the carrier frame (which lies on the floor upside down). Before snapping in, make some corrections to pull the sock down towards your toes or the print will cover too little of them. Slice the sole including those small anchor squares that ensure the sole gets into the right coordinates. Make the printer pause before the sole layer so you can put the carrier onto the print bed without the print head getting in the way. Have some nice kilometers ahead!