Overview
When a major music festival reached out needing an oversized replica of the Travis Scott Nike Air Force 1 shoe—with just one week until showtime—the request sounded nearly impossible. But at Smash, we thrive on last-minute challenges. With quick coordination, the right materials, and fast client collaboration, we knew we could pull it off.
Process
To meet the tight deadline without compromising detail, we chose High-Density Urethane (HDU) foam. Unlike standard 2lb foam, HDU eliminates the heavy sanding required to smooth layered slices, saving us several days of labor. While more expensive and heavier than traditional foam, HDU provided the durability Nike required—critical for an interactive display where attendees would be climbing, sitting, and taking photos.
Our process included:
- Carving & Assembly: Cutting and adhering foam slices into the oversized shoe form.
- Detail Work: Hand-sculpting intricate elements to replicate the real sneaker.
- Reinforcement: Applying a hard coat and adding epoxy resin in high-wear areas.
- Paint & Finish: Using automotive-grade paint for durability, color-matching Nike’s samples, and applying vinyl stencils to recreate the shoe’s complex multi-patterned design.
The team worked late into the night before the festival, ensuring the piece was complete and cured in time for delivery.
Result
The replica was delivered on schedule and became a festival highlight, drawing crowds eager to interact with it. The shoe’s scale, durability, and detail made it a jaw-dropping centerpiece and photo opportunity. Both the client and attendees raved about the finished piece—proof that with the right plan, even “impossible” deadlines can be met.
At Smash, we pride ourselves on turning last-minute challenges into standout experiences. This project was a perfect example of our team’s skill, resourcefulness, and ability to deliver under pressure.
