3D-Printed Sneakers
There are different types of running shoes. The difference can be based on the type of feet, the type of running terrain or the needs of the runner. There are shoes that are good for a 10-kilometer run but cannot sustain a half marathon or longer. There are also shoes designed for running on a pavement or surfaces with irregularities. If you prefer running in off-road routes that have rocks, muds, roots and other obstacles, you need trail-running shoes. What about the type of feet? There are feet that have neutral pronation, some over-pronates. Pronation refers to the way the foot rolls inward to allow impact distribution upon landing. To address the needs of the foot pronation, the key is looking into the midsole of the shoes.
Given that we all have unique feet, buying a tailor-fit shoes can be tricky. Shoe manufacturers can only accommodate so much uniqueness when mass-producing their shoes. It’s a good thing we are now in the 3D printing generation. Makers can take into account the peculiarity of our feet and print a sole that is customized to our needs.
Alphaedge 4D, by Adidas, is a distinctive sneaker that features the Adidas 4D midsole. This allows controlled energy return and breathe-thru cushioning needed for intense runs. Adidas is partnering with AM industry startup Carbon in mass producing the midsoles for its Futurecraft line.
Adidas 4D began as a Futurecraft innovation and is the brand’s most aggressive midsole to date. The brand had to rethink their manufacturing process to come up with new grounds in performance and comfort.
The Alphaedge 4D FW18 model has a sport-inspired geometric lattice structure. It assures stability, support and precise energy return whenever it’s essential during the most strenuous run or workout. The Adidas 4D midsole is printed with oxygen and light through the use of Digital Light Synthesis (DSL), a technology that Carbon pioneered. The complicated lattice structure can be achieved only through the use ofadditive manufacturing generates responsive cushioning. This takes in the pressure coming from any angle and drives energy back. The actions pushes the foot forward while providing support.
Carbon’s DSL is a technology that employs digital light projection, oxygen-permeable optics and liquid resins that can be programmed to print polymeric products capable for high performance. Through available data, it can answer the needs of a performance category. Moving forward, it can meet the unique needs of individual athletes when it come to movement, cushioning and stability of the midsole. This will completely redefine stability shoes because it can address every nuance of an athlete’s foot.
The Alphaedgefeatures a lightweight upper that hugs the foot in a seamless fit that is sock-like. This provides comfort and support necessary when a runner makes sharp side movements and sudden turns. The thread is individually made with Forgefiber, a TPU-coated yarn that provides strength. The Continental rubber outsole draws strength from tiretechnology. It features engineered traction zones toreinforce deeper cuts and allow faster acceleration in whatever surface or weather.
