Xiaofan Gao
Industrial Designer

AeroX — Redefining Freedom on the Slopes
A modular ski boot system bridging walking comfort and downhill precision.
Reframing the Ski Boot as a System
AeroX transforms the traditional ski boot into a modular system that fluidly shifts between walking mobility and alpine performance.
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Rear-entry shell enables effortless step-in
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Walk-to-ski switch unlocks natural ankle flexion
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Modular liner and zoned insole dynamically manage pressure
Feature Breakdown

Techenology & Innovation

System Thinking
AeroX integrates a rear-entry shell, push-button BOA fit system, modular liner, and zoned insole architecture into a cohesive boot system.
Together, these components manage pressure distribution, simplify step-in access, and support natural ankle movement between walking and skiing.

From Sketch to Physical
Vacuum-formed shells and 3D-printed components were used to test proportions, flexibility, and cable routing — bridging concept and physical validation.


BIOMECHANICS RESEARCH
Studying ankle flexion and pressure distribution revealed the conflicting demands between skiing stability and walking mobility.

System Integration
These studies integrated shell, liner, insole, and sensor modules into a cohesive architecture that supports pressure feedback and real-time fit adjustment.

Architecture Exploration
Early sketches explored rear-entry mechanisms, BOA placement, and liner removal to define the overall system architecture.


SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY
CMF Strategy — Designed for Terrain
The color and material palette is derived from alpine terrain to balance performance visibility with visual calm in natural environments.

Final Design Overview
Three-view render showcasing the resolved AeroX
system architecture.


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Modular Liner System — Tuned for Every Condition
AeroX features interchangeable liner options designed for breathability, versatility, and insulation — allowing skiers to adapt the boot interior to changing weather, activity level, and personal comfort needs.

Materials — Performance-Driven Choices
AeroX combines a Pebax® RNew shell for lightweight cold-resistant performance, nylon reinforcement at the BOA interface for durability, and an adaptive cooling liner fabric to regulate moisture during long wear.

Pebax® RNew

Nylon

Advanced Adaptive
Cooling Fabric
Material Logic Across the Boot System

Exploded CMF diagram mapping how shell, liner, insole, and fastening components interact as a unified performance system.


