JM16

THE PROJECT

Behind the distinction.

✓ Verified winner · DESIGNSKILLAWARDS-93AB9AA656760151

Grounded in the brand's mission of "Born for Free Running, Made to Shine Childhood", the JM16 deeply integrates the Eastern landscape philosophy with the practical needs of modern children's footwear. Guided by the design principle of "Mountain as Structure, Step as Spirit, Knob as Nexus", it features an innovative rotary knob, delivering a full-cycle developmental footwear solution for children aged 2 to 16 that balances cultural aesthetics with functional convenience.

Inspired by traditional Chinese mountain gates, the JM16 transforms layered mountain ridges and Jiangnan water ripples into undulating lines on both sides. One side resembles "the staircase of growth", symbolizing a child's journey from tentative first steps to confident running. The other side mirrors flowing water, reflecting the Eastern wisdom of "Stable as Mountains, Fluid as Flowing Water" while providing soft yet stable arch support. The color palette captures the Eastern ideal of "Unity of Man and Nature", offering warm beige-brown options alongside dynamic black-gray and pink-purple contrasts—balancing organic warmth with modern style.

Embracing the Eastern concept of "Negative Space" and informed by data on children's foot shapes, the JM16 offers a wide toe box and precise fitting allowances (+0.5 cm for normal or slim feet; +1 cm for wide, chubby, or high-instep feet). This ensures dynamic adaptation to the foot's natural contours, aligning with Chinese children's foot development patterns to prevent pinching or rubbing and support healthy growth. The high-rebound EVA outsole delivers a lightweight yet resilient feel, suited for various activity scenarios—from school settings to outdoor play. The innovative "Pop-Twist" rotary knob features a smooth, rounded design that echoes the Eastern aesthetic of "roundness as perfection", blending seamlessly with the shoes' soft lines and serving as a signature visual element. Functionally, it enables easy fastening/loosening, helping foster young children's independence.

Committed to a sustainable design concept, the JM16 uses eco-friendly, skin-friendly mesh and synthetic leather, along with recyclable fabrics and water‑based adhesives, ensuring the shoes are free from heavy metals and harmful substances to protect children's delicate skin. A combination of stitching and heat‑pressing techniques enhances structural integrity, while the rotary knob has undergone rigorous testing to ensure durability and safety, empowering children to explore the world safely and freely.