New Balance releases 3D printed running shoe
12/04/2016
The number is symbolic as it represents the 44 years since New Balance owner & chairman, Jim Davis, purchased the company in 1972 and the release date is timed to coincide with the 2016 Boston Marathon which will take place on April 18. They will be available on the New Balance website as well as at the New Balance experience store in Boston.
New Balance collaborated exclusively with 3D Systems to develop the product. The midsole is printed using a ‘selective laser sintering’ process which converts the new powder material into a solid, layer by layer.
“New Balance is at the forefront of 3D printing and has been utilizing this exciting and innovative technology to customize product for our athletes for a number of years,” said New Balance president and CEO Robert DeMartini.
New Balance is not the first sportswear company to venture into the 3D shoe market. In March, Under Armour led the way with the first 3D printed training shoe whilst adidas revealed in December 2015 that they had also created a 3D printed midsole. Nike offer a football boot which was developed using 3D printing.
Image courtesy of New Balance Press Box.
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