Cradle to Cradle Footwear Design Model: Bio-Based Material Shoes and Wearer’s Perceptions and Acceptance

The study aimed to develop the design process of bio-based material shoes from theoretical and practical perspectives. Two primary objectives of this study were (1) to build a conceptual framework for bio-based material shoes and (2) to evaluate the wearer’s perceptions and acceptance of men’s bio-based material shoes compared to commercial leather shoes. A total of 42 male participants, aged 18 to 43 years, took part in the study. Qualitative data were evaluated using NVivo 11, while quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS 23. A paired t-test was conducted to identify significant mean differences between the two groups: bio-based material and leather shoes. The findings revealed that the proposed model was a theoretical guide throughout the four process stages. Additionally, the bio-based shoe prototypes made from multi-layered bacterial cellulosic materials showed potential for wearability and mobility, indicating wearers’ positive perceptions and acceptance compared with the commercial leather shoes in the lab experiment.