This Student Turned Startup Founder Made an Invention So You Never Have to Tie Your Shoes Again

The company's crowning product is Nexlace, a pair of shoelaces that comes in three components: a lock, a stopper, and 100cm nylon laces that stretch.

Once these are installed,they turn your laced shoes into secured slip-ons. Another benefit is that it eliminates the need to bend down for those with back problems –– which is pretty much anyone over the age of 25 (it's not just me right?).

Although you can find some similar productions out in the market if you search, the team claims that theirs are superior with its secured stopper design and multiple colour choices.

Currently the team comprises of only 3 people, Jizen, who does everything, Jing Hao, who does engineering and accounting, and Danial who does content and marketing.

They first won the MaGIC University Startup Challenge 2021, under the Technology-Driven Track that was organised by the Malaysian Global Innovation and Creativity Centre (MaGIC). They managed to bag a win with their unique proposition to create a comfort wear product.

Along with four other teams, they also won themselves a cash prize of RM10,000 which could be used for product and market development, along with mentorship opportunities under the MaGIC Mentorship Programme. They were also given access to online start-up tools, the chance to join advanced programmes and initiatives and 3 months of hot-desking at a co-working space.

They also won a grant of RM10,000 under TechStars Startup Weekend programme co-organised by Taylor’s BizPod and Taylor's University Student Council. TechStars is a global investment business that also provides mentoring.

At the time of writing, Nexmve has already sold over 1000 pairs of their no-tie shoelaces, a pretty impressive feat for a small start-up! Right now the team are focusing on improving packaging and distribution of their current Nexlace. They want a physical presence in stores and are in the midst of beautifying their packaging to attract curious shoppers.

We asked them if the money from the sales of their product was enough to buy a yacht or two but Jizen admits that they're all still working full-time jobs while the Nexlace remains a side hustle.

What a driven group of students! It goes to show that you’re never too young to live out your dreams.

If you're sick of tying your shoes, you can purchase the Nexlace online on Shopee or Lazada. You can also visit their website here.