4D Printing Helps Adidas Redefine Running Shoes’ Forward Motion
The company says its 4DFWD running shoe features an industry-first, bowtie-shaped lattice midsole which transforms vertical pressure into a horizontal force, designed to move runners forward.
Share
Read Next
The adidas 4DFWD is designed to move runners forward. Photo Credit: Adidas
Adidas’ 4DFWD is its most advanced running shoe. It is designed to move runners in one direction only — forward. The company says it is a shoe industry first with a bowtie-shaped lattice midsole which transforms vertical pressure into a horizontal force, providing runners with a nonstop, smooth forward transition.
The company says it created this technologically advanced running shoe after it evaluated over 5 million variations of the lattice structure and combined 18 years of real-world athlete performance data to identify a design that could change the running experience. Harnessing the power of 4D, adidas collaborated Carbon to use its Digital Light Synthesis to create a precisely, fine-tuned midsole, which it says offers a scientifically proven forward motion benefit.
“When humans run, our forward motion is interrupted every time our foot hits the ground, leading to a subtle stop-start motion between strides,” says Anette (Peko) Hosoi, a Neil and Jane Pappalardo professor of mechanical engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. “This is true for all runners — no matter your ability.”
Adidas says it is always looking at the ways technology and data can intersect to create the best possible products for runners. “With the new 4DFWD, we made the impossible possible, challenging the laws of science by using a unique performance benefit designed to move you forward,” says Charlotte Heidmann, Adidas product manager. “With every stride, the midsoleof the adidas 4DFWD turns vertical impact into horizontal forward motion for an unstoppable smooth forward transition and new underfoot experience throughout the run.”
The shoe features a Continental outsole which is said to provide extra grip for running in any weather condition. It also has a Prime knit+ and engineered mesh upper construction for an extra supportive and snug fit. Complemented by an integrated heel counter, Prime knit+ is said to offer a sock-like fit while areas of engineered mesh provide support exactly where runners need it most. The 4DFWD midsole delivers 23% more cushioning than previous 4D midsole generations (4D Run 1.0), the company says.
Related Content
-
3D Printing with Plastic Pellets – What You Need to Know
A few 3D printers today are capable of working directly with resin pellets for feedstock. That brings extreme flexibility in material options, but also requires greater knowledge of how to best process any given resin. Here’s how FGF machine maker JuggerBot 3D addresses both the printing technology and the process know-how.
-
ActivArmor Casts and Splints Are Shifting to Point-of-Care 3D Printing
ActivArmor offers individualized, 3D printed casts and splints for various diagnoses. The company is in the process of shifting to point-of-care printing and aims to promote positive healing outcomes and improved hygienics with customized support devices.
-
Possibilities From Electroplating 3D Printed Plastic Parts
Adding layers of nickel or copper to 3D printed polymer can impart desired properties such as electrical conductivity, EMI shielding, abrasion resistance and improved strength — approaching and even exceeding 3D printed metal, according to RePliForm.
