Welcome to the future of footwear! Adidas, or “adidas” (however you prefer to say it), has just introduced its latest addition to the world of 3D printed shoes. They’re calling it the “4D Forward,” and it represents the next step in data-driven 3D printed midsole innovation.
What’s fascinating is that Adidas didn’t rush into this; they took their time. After 17 years of in-depth analysis of data collected from professional athletes, Adidas combined their extensive research with Carbon’s Digital Light Synthesis 3D printing technology. The result? An even more incredible line of 3D printed shoes.
The 4D Forward is a product of this collaboration. Sam Handy, the VP of Design at Adidas Running, commented on the new development, saying, “4D technology provides us with the opportunity to design in a way that conventional foam midsoles do not allow. We took inspiration from the first generation 4D lattice midsole and set ourselves the challenge to take it to the next level, exploring millions of potential lattice structures to counteract negative mechanical forces experienced during running.”
The 4D Forward’s lattice midsole is a work of art. It uses bow tie-shaped cells and boasts a design with a staggering 5 million possible lattice structures. But that’s not all; it’s also printed with up to 40% bio-based material. What does all this mean for runners? The design is intended to compress forward upon vertical impact, which helps runners maintain their stride and reduce PEEK braking force by an impressive 15%.
According to Adidas’s Senior Vice President and General Manager, this innovation is an industry-first in midsole design. It positions the 4D Forward as Adidas’s most advanced digitally printed running midsole yet, showcasing the immense potential of 4D technology in translating physics and biomechanics studies into high-performance solutions.
The shoe’s upper is another impressive feature, as it’s crafted from recycled polyester. This provides runners with a lightweight and breathable sock-like fit, ensuring both performance and comfort.
If you’re excited about getting your feet into a pair of these 4D Forward shoes, you’re in luck. They were made available to Adidas Creators Club members on May 15, with a special Tokyo collection set to release on July 1. The global release date for these cutting-edge shoes is August 12, 2021.
Even if you’re not an avid runner, the technology behind these shoes makes them worth considering. So, are you planning to invest in a pair of 4D Forward or any other 3D printed Adidas shoes soon? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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