For several years, 3D printing has made a full entry into the footwear industry, allowing designers to create their own artistic pieces without aesthetic limits. With the goal of bringing not only innovation but also sustainability to the sector, the young Italian startup Servati has decided to create fully recyclable collections through the use of additive manufacturing. Recently, Servati has made a mark in the fashion world by presenting its collections at the Palazzo Giureconsulti during Milan Fashion Week 2025. In this interview for 3Dnatives, Matteo Di Paola takes us on a journey to discover Servati, from the brand’s inception to its most important projects.
3DN: Hello! Can you introduce yourself and tell us when and how you first discovered 3D printing?
Matteo Di Paola (left) and Marco Primiceri (right)
I am Matteo Di Paola, CEO and co-founder of Servati, an innovative startup that owns the eponymous brand producing designer sneakers that are 3D-printed and 100% recyclable. Our journey began precisely with 3D printing, which we recognized as an enabling technology capable of overcoming the entry barriers in the footwear industry. Thanks to 3D printing, we have been able to eliminate the setup costs associated with developing new models and fully unleash our creativity, creating the first prototypes and testing them in the market.
3DN: When was Servati founded? What is its mission?
Servati was born out of a deep passion for technology, innovation, and the world of sneakers. Marco Primiceri, co-founder and designer, and I combined these passions to create a unique brand. Our mission is to revolutionize the footwear industry with innovative and sustainable designs, proving that cutting-edge style and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
Servati’s INIZIO DARK FOAM Model
3DN: How do you use 3D printing in your business?
We manufacture all our shoes in-house using a fleet of over 30 FDM printers. After printing, the components are assembled with a textile upper, without using adhesives or chemical solvents, following a disassembly principle that ensures the product is fully recyclable.
3DN: Can you walk us through the process of creating Servati shoes, from the initial idea to the finished product?
The process begins with digital design using 3D modeling software. Next, the model is scaled for different sizes and prepared for printing. After printing, each piece undergoes a post-processing stage to refine the details. Finally, the printed component is assembled with the upper. We use LiDAR to continuously monitor print quality and correct any errors in real time, ensuring precise output and reducing waste.
3DN: What 3D printing technologies and materials do you use?
We primarily use FDM printers, a choice driven by the need to maintain a sustainable recycling chain. Our printer farm is diverse, consisting of machines from well-known brands such as Artillery, Creality, and Anycubic, which ensure both efficiency and flexibility in production.
Servati’s 3D Printer Farm
3DN: Who are Servati’s customers?
Servati primarily targets B2C customers through our e-commerce platform, offering sneakers to design enthusiasts who are passionate about innovation and sustainability. At the same time, we collaborate with partners in the design and fashion sectors, participating in major events and working with institutions and companies interested in technological experimentation. Other businesses turn to us for consulting or 3D printing support. We produce prototypes on behalf of third parties, especially in the fashion sector, where this technology can significantly reduce the time and cost of developing new products. One of the main challenges in our industry is educating the market about more innovative and sustainable design concepts, breaking down barriers related to traditional production models and established consumer habits.
3DN: Which Servati events or projects are worth mentioning?
We have participated in numerous startup competitions and were recognized by the Ministry of Made in Italy as one of the most interesting innovations in recent years, exhibiting alongside companies such as Brembo and Ferrari. Recently, Sara Sozzani Maino and the Fashion Chamber selected us to take part in Milan Fashion Week 2025, where we showcased our collection and production process directly on site.
3DN: What does the Design Challenge involve?
The Servati Design Challenge is an annual initiative created to make the fashion world more accessible and democratic. We aim to give young designers the opportunity to bring their sneaker ideas to life using our 3D printing platform and network of suppliers. The winner gets the chance to see their project produced and sold through our channels, becoming an integral part of our growth journey.
Servati’s SLIDES FUN in Both Black and White Versions
3DN: What role does sustainability play for Servati?
Sustainability is a core pillar for Servati. Our patent ensures that each sneaker is 100% recyclable and designed for easy disassembly at the end of its life. With the Boomerang Process, we encourage customers to return their used shoes in exchange for a voucher toward a new pair. The discarded shoes are then recycled to create new models, closing the production loop and reducing environmental impact.
3DN: What role do you think 3D printing plays in the world of design and fashion?
3D printing plays a crucial role. It helps reduce initial production costs, enables rapid prototyping, and allows market testing with lower risks. Additionally, it provides flexibility in inventory management and supports on-demand production, avoiding waste and overproduction.
Servati’s HYPER BOOT