The latest announcement from adidas is both exciting and highly anticipated, since they have been a forerunner (yes, we had to say it!) in using 3D printing technology—and forging ahead into the 4D—for quite some time now. Where to start? From announcing their intentions to begin using 3D printing technology in their factories in 2015, the premium footwear manufacturer has also featured sneakers made from recycled ocean waste with 3D printed prototypes, produced 3D printed limited editions, and more. Their highest-visibility project was announced in April 2017, as adidas announced a partnership with Carbon for scale production of high-performance running shoes.
Now, adidas has finally, officially announced the commercial release of their Futurecraft 4D. The midsoles are made using Carbon’s Digital Light Synthesis technology, using light and oxygen. While their prototype for the new shoes has been out since last spring, and seen on the feet of the Carbon team at events from RAPID to TCT Show, they will be launching the line in New York on January 18th.
Consortium retailers like KITH, Packer, and SNS will participate in marketing the innovative running shoes which offer ‘precisely engineered zones’ for athletes, providing not only comfort and cushioning, but also stability and propulsion.
Adidas is touting their new product as the ‘ultimate running shoe for all,’ created based on 17 years of research and development. Each midsole contains 20,000 struts, with the 4D element coming into play as they can be geared toward the individual and ‘tuned’ to requirements needed at the time.
In the heel, the wearer has the advantage of lattice geometry for cushioning and impact control. The transition zone offers improved transition for heel to toe movement, and the forefoot zone allows the runner to move forward better. The open structure also means better ‘breathability,’ coupled with a primeknit upper for a fit similar to that of a sock. The goal in creating these new shoes was to see that every athlete can perform to their potential, empowered with superior footwear as their greatest tool—next to the power of their own drive, stamina, and discipline.
“FUTURECRAFT 4D demonstrates the potential of Digital Light Synthesis in unlocking a new era in sport performance design. One driven by athlete data and incomparable precision to provide the best for the athletes, enabling them to make a difference in their run,” stated Ben Herath, VP Design for adidas Running. “This innovation changes how we design and free ourselves from limitations of the past. The possibilities of what we can now create with this technology to push the boundaries of performance is truly endless.”
This new shoe, which adidas expects to reshape the footwear industry, is priced at $300, as 3D printing continues to allow for personalization in footwear.
Have you been waiting for this new product to finally come on the market for sale to the public? Find out more about FUTURECRAFT 4D here. They can also be followed on Instagram and Twitter via #futurecraft.
What do you think of this news? Let us know your thoughts; join the discussion of this and other 3D printing topics at 3DPrintBoard.com.
[Images: adidas]
