Dobok of the future. Expression of interest for a collaborative co-design and prototyping workshop
The Fondazione Mondo Digitale ETS, which has always been committed to promoting social and technological innovation, in collaboration with the Italian Taekwondo Federation (Fita), is launching an open invitation to participate in a creative and collaborative workshop to imagine, design and prototype the dobok of the future, the innovative uniform for practising Virtual Taekwondo (VTKD).
The prototype uniform will serve as the basis for the official uniform of the Italian National Virtual Taekwondo Team.
VTKD is a cutting-edge discipline, part of the eSports movement, which uses augmented reality headsets and wearable sensors to simulate combat in a virtual, inclusive and safe environment. This new approach allows physical and social barriers related to age, gender or ability to be overcome, opening up the sport to a wider and more diverse community. VTKD will be featured at the first edition of the Olympic eSports Games, scheduled for 2027 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Objective of the initiative
To create a collaborative and open process for the design of a uniform that:
- integrates VTKD sensors in a stable and functional way
- is elastic (like the Olympic and World Championship dobok), comfortable, elegant and respectful of the traditional style of Taekwondo
- represents a step forward towards inclusion and accessibility in digital sport
- exploits the potential of rapid prototyping and interdisciplinary experimentation.
Technical and functional specifications
The uniform (dobok) must:
- integrate 5 sensors (1 on the back, 2 above and 2 below the knees)
- provide solutions for the horizontal rotation of the sensors above the knees
- avoid the use of external Velcro straps, integrating the components invisibly or harmoniously
- maintain the oriental aesthetic style of the traditional dobok
- ensure comfort, breathability and freedom of movement
- encourage the use of new technologies (laser cutting, 3D printing, smart fabrics, conductive stitching, etc.).
Who can participate
We are looking for people who are passionate about innovation, technology, fashion and sport. In particular:
- students from schools, universities and academies
- young designers, makers, digital artisans
- developers, wearable tech experts, curious sports enthusiasts, current or former Taekwondo practitioners
- mixed teams or even individuals interested in developing a personal idea in a collaborative environment.
How we work
No pre-packaged projects: we work together, in a workshop setting, from concept to prototype.
Location: Fab Lab of the Palestra dell'Innovazione in Rome, Via del Quadraro 102 (Tuscolano district).
Method: open, collaborative workshop led by expert trainers and with the involvement of FITA athletes and technicians/staff.
Timing: from October 2025 to February 2026 with a flexible schedule based on participant availability
Tools available: 3D printing, laser cutting, digital tailoring, technical materials, technical support.
What will be achieved
The work is divided into two phases: initial brainstorming with sketches and paper prototypes, with the support of FMD and FITA experts, followed by concrete implementation using rapid prototyping techniques and equipment available at the Fab Lab.
The final proposal must contain
- Abstract (IT/EN)
- Technical sketches + 2D/3D renderings
- Description of materials and technologies chosen
- Sensor and controller integration diagram
- Physical or demonstration mock-up (even low-fi)
- Preliminary cost estimate
Materials for documentation and storytelling of the process
Opportunity to showcase the work at public events, trade fairs and meetings with stakeholders in the fashion and sports industry, crediting all those who contributed to the project.
How to participate
To apply, please send your expression of interest to fablab@mondodigitale.org, attaching a sketch or initial idea of the dobok you intend to develop, together with your CV. This will be followed by a selection process to identify the participants in the workshop.
Ownership and attribution
The workshop for the dobok of the future is based on a philosophy of knowledge sharing, creative collaboration and openness. There is no exclusive intellectual property rights on the projects, as the entire process is based on an open source spirit. The final result is attributed collectively as: “Project developed at the Fab Lab InnovationGym of the Fondazione Mondo Digitale”. Where possible, the names of participants will be included in the promotional and documentation materials produced by Fondazione Mondo Digitale and FITA, in recognition of their individual or group contribution. All materials (photos, videos, prototypes, renderings, etc.) may be used freely by FMD and FITA for educational, communication and promotional purposes, always in accordance with the collaborative nature of the project.
