Bowling Shoe Gets 'Next Generation' Makeover From NYC Student

CHELSEA, NY — A Fashion Institute of Technology student has won a design contest to create the "next generation" of bowling shoe for the world's largest operator of bowling alleys.

Bowlero, which runs more than 300 alleys with upscales amenities, launched its "BeBowled: Shoe Design Challenge" in February, offering aspiring designers and bowling aficionados a chance to re-design an American classic and innovate a new sports shoe for a modern era of bowling.

Fashion Institute of Technology student Samuel Riley's design was selected from dozens of entries with the help of celebrity judge designer Christian Siriano. Finalist's kicks were recently unveiled on the lanes of the Central Park Bowling Suite. The 21-year-old's "Illusion Shoe" design took home the grand prize of $2,500 and will have his design professionally manufactured and distributed to more than 75 locations, rolling out in 2019.

Riley's design was a riff off of the bowling giant's aesthetic, he told Patch.

"My design was inspired by Bowlero’s modern-retro vibe," said Riley, an incoming senior at FIT studying accessory design with a focus in footwear and handbags. "I wanted the design to match the overall atmosphere at Bowlero. It’s also interactive where you have to put the shoes together to see the design."

The New Hampshire native is currently interning with Paul Andrew's brand of women's luxury footwear and dreams of being the creative director at a high-end American brand, such as Calvin Klein, specializing in footwear.

The contest win is the first step in what he hopes will be the start of a lengthy career in designer footwear, Riley said.

"It's really amazing to have some success in the footwear industry, especially for performance shoes," he said. "I’m so proud to be part of this competition knowing that my shoes will bring excitement to next generation bowlers."

Riley plans to put the prize money toward his senior thesis in accessory design and a trip to the West Coast.

Lead photo of Samuel Riley showing off his design with the contest's celebrity judge Christian Siriano at the Central Park Bowling Suite. (Photos courtesy of Bowlero Corp.)