MTL SpeedARC Peak
Merrell
Merrell debuts the MTL SpeedARC Peak, a new benchmark in trail-running performance, launching as part of the brand’s 45th Anniversary collection. To showcase the technical shoe, we created a film using a mixed live-action and CG approach, showing the behind-the-scenes of the product, which was developed inside the Merrell Test Lab through a five-year process.
Run All In
We designed and built a custom set composed of intricate mechanical structures inspired by the precision and aesthetics of a surgical laboratory.
Within this industrial testing environment, shoe components are dissected, replaced, and refined, visualising an ongoing process of experimentation and optimisation. Each iteration represents a step toward achieving the ultimate performance-driven design.
To contrast with the controlled mechanical world, we introduced natural terrain elements into the lower section of the set, transforming the space into a hybrid testing lab where engineering meets the outdoors. This environment reflects the rigorous conditions the shoe is designed to conquer.
The result is an exploration of performance, an industrial lab where every component is challenged until the shoe reaches its most advanced form, engineered to be resilient on uneven terrain, balancing agility and control.
Research and development
Using AI-assisted workflows, we combined live-action footage with previous test models of the shoe, generating different versions of the midsole, tread, and upper. These evolving parts illustrate the product’s development journey, culminating in the final SpeedARC Peak design.
Designed, Directed and Produced by FutureDeluxe
Executive Creative Director: Raj Davsi
Executive Producer: Georgina Turner
Creative Director: Yas Vicente
Senior Producer: Helen Randall
Head of Global Production: Caleigh Illerbrun
CG Supervisor/Lead: Stevie Rees
CG/AI Artist: Karmo Jarv
2D Artists: Mauro Rader & James Primhak
Post Production – Clean Up: The Forge
Compositing: The Forge & Stevie Rees
Editor: Yas Vicente
Cutdown Editor: Matt Cronin
Grade: The Forge & Yas Vicente
Stills Retouch: The Forge
Music Composition & Sound Design: George Hill
Live Action: FutureDeluxe & The Forge
Director/Co-Director: Yas Vicente
Production Company: The Forge
Director/Co-Director: Jean-Michel Massey
Director of Motion: Chris Mosey
Photographer: Si West
Gaffer: Louis Walter
Bolt/MoCo Operator: James Gillet
DIT: Dan Jose
Production Designer: Joshanne Dar
Props Master: Isabel Alsina-Reynolds
Producer: Archie Chew
Production Assistant: Leah Allardyce
Client: Merrell – Wolverine Worldwide
Global Creative Director: Alex Ho
Associate Creative Director: Burke di Piazza
Senior Art Director: Tucker Friend
Brand Marketing Manager: Ben Stark
Senior Copywriter: Benjamin Kalajainen
Senior Producer: Elizabeth Nuttle