Following the Sutor V project developed with Drop Studio, Arsutoria School presents the Sutor S project, created in collaboration with Alessandro Viganò—school instructor, long-time designer for some of the most iconic sneaker brands, and founder of the label Hidn-Ander.
The goal was to create a sneaker with a contemporary, appealing design that also incorporated key elements of Italian craftsmanship.
The team chose a cupsole construction—a hallmark of court-style sneakers—and a calf leather upper, enriched with suede elements and a brushed leather heel tab featuring the school’s logo in micro-injected TPU.
As often happens, the process began with the sole selection. The team opted for the “Stan” sole by Margom, a well-known outsole manufacturer based in the Marche region. It’s a rubber cupsole available in a wide range of colors and in all sizes from 35 to 46. Fine-tuning the last took a bit more time: Technical Director Paolo Marenghi, who led the development of the project, initially selected a last together with designer Alessandro Viganò. However, after the first wear tests, adjustments to the last proportions were required to maximize comfort, and the team sought support from a specialist last maker.
The entire upper development process was carried out in the school’s own workshop. Paolo personally designed the pattern, selected the materials, and, with the help of Adriana, developed the uppers. The model includes advanced construction details that require technical skills both in preparation and assembly. For example, the suede overlay that runs from the heel to the toe is fully turned inside, unlike many sneakers on the market where eyestay reinforcements are left raw for simplicity.
Initially, the sneaker was designed for a Strobel construction, known for its lightness and flexibility. But after wearing the first prototypes for several days, the team realized that a board-lasted construction would be more appropriate, and the model was revised accordingly.
A Sneaker That’s Both Technical and Fashion-Forward
Every detail of the Sutor S upper has been carefully studied to strike the perfect balance between design and functionality, making it a true fashion sneaker with an artisan soul.
One of its most distinctive elements is the rear collar featuring the Sutor logo, crafted in TPU thanks to a partnership with New and Best, a leading company in Barletta specializing in special processes. The micro-injection technique used is a complex molding process that requires the creation of a custom mold and the injection of thermoplastic material. The result is a durable, high-quality logo that stands up to stress despite its exposed position.
Learn it. Make it. Wear it.
The Sutor S project was created specifically for teaching at Arsutoria School: students on the two-week Shoe Making course in Milan will work on a simplified version of this sneaker and, at the end of the course, will receive a pair of Sutor S.
“We chose this model because it’s inspired by a timeless sneaker but contains advanced pattern making features that we want our students to understand and master,” explains Technical Director Paolo Marenghi. “It’s a hands-on opportunity to create a product that embodies the essence of Italian craftsmanship,” he adds. “And we’re preparing a special surprise for course participants that will show how cutting-edge technology, typically seen in sneakers from major sports brands, can also be applied to Italian-made products.”
Would you like to experience first-hand what it’s like to make the sneakers from the Sutor S project?
Join us for the upcoming editions of the Shoe Making: Sneakers course:
- December 1st, 2025 – December 12th, 2025
- April 7th, 2026 – April 17th, 2026
- July 20th, 2026 – July 31st, 2026
- November 30th, 2026 – December 11th, 2026
Would you like to understand the full process from pattern aiming to sample making? Then join our Shoe Technical Path
- September 1st, 2025 – December 12th, 2025
- January 7th, 2026 – April 17th, 2026