Footwear design is a complicated practice, requiring an exceptionally wide range of knowledge and expertise. From manufacturing processes to material science to human body dynamics, global fashion and cultural trends to retail merchandizing, a lot goes into that pair of sneakers on your feet. Keeping on top of this fast-moving knowledge base is a challenge, so a dedicated conference to learn from industry experts and veterans is a welcome event. That's why the team at Advanced Design has created Glue, a two-day conference taking place in Portland, OR on July 20 & 21.

Hector Silva, Executive Director at Advanced Design, said "Footwear plays a crucial role in our everyday lives and reflects our culture, while also representing a complex and intricate industry that often remains behind the scenes. From fine details and material selection to engineering, business, and marketing, footwear involves multifaceted teams. We're looking forward to delving deep into these aspects to shed light on what goes on behind the curtain of footwear design."

The first day takes place at the Wacom Experience Center, while the following day will be at Autodesk's Portland office. Tickets for the event are only $100 for both days, and include presentations, workshops, networking and after parties.

Designer Michael DiTullo, who has extensive industry experience and will be one of the presenters, has plenty of first-hand knowledge of the challenges facing those working in this space "Being a footwear designer taught me to better understand the larger context for my work and how to be a better collaborator. I'm so excited this conference is happening and that it is taking place in Portland, the footwear design capital of the United States and one of the most creative cities in the world. Off the top of my head, Nike, Under Armour, Cole Haan, Lululemon, Arcterix, Keen, Adidas, Columbia, Sorrel, all have design studios here. This truly is a nexus for new ideas in the industry."

If you're still not convinced, the presenters are a collection of industry veterans:

Ashley Comeaux - VP Design Allbirds Michael DiTullo - independent design consultant Samantha Noyes - founder of Studio Noyes Aaron Powers - Cole Haan Anthony Saul Lopez - Creative Director at All Design Lab Gemo Wong - former head of special projects at Brand Jordan

You'd be hard pressed to find a better use of $100 if you're in the business already, or looking to make some connections and break in. Tickets are available on the Advanced Design website.