Jean-Luc Diard on the Deckers X Lab Design Philosophy & Products (Ep.85)

by
On Blister's Off The Couch Podcast, Jonathan Ellsworth talks with one of the most influential product designers in the outdoor industry, Jean-Luc Diard, about the design philosophy of Deckers X Lab, a number of the models in the Deckers Lab lineup, and why they are trying to rethink everything from the standard flip flop to the casual sneaker to the suspension systems of high-end, performance shoes.
Jean-Luc Diard

Jean-Luc Diard is one of the most influential figures in product design in the outdoor industry. He was formerly the CEO of Salomon and played a major role in the development of Salomon’s running shoes, he co-founded HOKA One One, and he is now the VP of innovation for the Deckers Group and the head of Deckers X Lab.

We had Jean-Luc on the podcast last fall, and I strongly recommend that you check out that conversation – it’s episode #73 of Off The Couch. Because if you are interested in how innovation actually happens — call it the process of innovation — then this conversation is a Must-Listen.

In our conversation yesterday, Jean-Luc and I focus more on the product design philosophy of Deckers X Lab in particular, and we discuss a number of the specific models in the Deckers lineup. Their footwear looks different and feels different, and you’ll get to hear Jean-Luc explain that they are not just trying to be different for the sake of being different, they are trying to rethink everything from the standard flip flop to the casual sneaker to the suspension systems being put into very high-end, performance shoes.

TOPICS & TIMES:

  • The Deckers X Lab philosophy & lineup (2:26)
  • Minimalist vs Maximalist shoes (8:53)
  • KO-Z Slipper series (31:06)
  • Suspension & Arch Support (36:53)
  • K-ST series 35 (44:55)
  • X-SCAPE series (49:24)
  • Running-Shoe Quivers (53:29)

RELATED LINKS:

On Blister's Off The Couch Podcast, Jonathan Ellsworth talks with one of the most influential product designers in the outdoor industry, Jean-Luc Diard, about the design philosophy of Deckers X Lab, a number of the models in the Deckers Lab lineup, and why they are trying to rethink everything from the standard flip flop to the casual sneaker to the suspension systems of high-end, performance shoes.
Deckers X Lab KO-Z Slipper, X-Scape Boot, & K-ST Shoe

2 comments on “Jean-Luc Diard on the Deckers X Lab Design Philosophy & Products (Ep.85)”

  1. I’m disappointed that you have featured a Deckers representative on Blister.

    They are currently in a legal challenge involving the trade mark rights for their UGG brand. Ugg is a ubiquitous name for sheepskin shoes/boots worn by many in Australia that they will not allow to be used.

    This case is the same as the use of the term Backcountry that you fought so hard against previously.

  2. Would love to hear what he thinks about ski boots or what ideas he would have. Guess it would be mind blowing. Always great, listen to this guy. What a genius.
    Great podcast as always Jonathan and team. Das story, Deckers is not shipping to Europe, would love to try the sandals… cheers

Leave a Comment