
MDes student
Fields of Interest
Education
Biography
Richard Zartman designs athletic shoes with movement and performance in mind. His work starts with function first, letting the way the shoe works guide its form. The aesthetic comes naturally from the design, rather than being applied afterward. He believes in keeping things simple—less is more.
Richard approaches design on three levels: 10, 1, 1. From ten feet away, the shoe’s overall shape, silhouette, and color catch the eye. From one foot away, the mind starts to understand why it was attracted and whether it makes sense. And at one inch, the details—the textures, finishes, and subtle touches—create a connection that people can feel and appreciate.
Through this layered approach, Richard creates shoes that are functional, intuitive, and meaningful. His goal is to help people move better, perform at their best, and enjoy the experience along the way. Every pair is designed to engage the eye, the mind, and the heart, making the act of wearing them both practical and personal.