Adidas’ 3D printing advancements to star in Olympics
The German company said it combined athlete data and Carbon’s Digital Light Synthesis technology to produce “precision tuned” 3D printed midsoles made with 40% bio-based materials, adding that the technology offers the ability to fine-tune midsoles to specific patterns of movement.
When compared with previous generations of 4D midsole, Adidas said its 4DFWD generates three times as much forward motion under vertical loading in mechanical testing conditions.
As a result, peak braking force experienced by the athlete during running is reduced by 15% as the midsole redirects these vertical impact forces into horizontal forward motion, delivering running economy comparable to that of Ultraboost midsoles in lab conditions.
Complementing the adidas 4DFWD midsole is a new Primeknit upper made from recycled polyester.
The adidas 4DFWD will be released in three colours, including a special Tokyo Collection, which will be the main shoe for its athletes in Tokyo this summer.
