Adidas Improves On Its Footwear With 3D-Printed Midsoles To Help You Go Further

By Alexa Heah, 06 May 2021

Image via Adidas

Adidas’ new running shoe, named the 4DFWD, isn’t like most of their other sneakers. It’s inherently unique, containing special technology that helps ease you forward each time your foot hits the ground.

This remarkable element comes from the shoe’s 3D-printed midsole, made by Carbon in partnership with Adidas over four years.

When your foot hits the ground, the airy lattice pierced by bow-tie-shaped holes are compressed, advancing your foot compared to the position of the sole on the ground.

According to CNET, the new midsole reduces the braking force against the front of your foot by 15% when compared with a regular running shoe. Adidas 4D footwear is among the first in the world to make use of this cutting-edge technology, so that athletes can enjoy precision in performance with every step.

“We identified one perfect lattice midsole that is designed to compress forwards under loading and counter mechanical forces whilst delivering a unique gliding sensation for our runners,” said Adidas Vice-President of Design for Running Shoes Sam Handy.

Adidas and Carbon went through five million possible lattice structures before deciding on the bowtie pattern used in the 4WFWD. They’ve also tested the shoes with real runners at the University of Calgary and the University of Arizona during the development process.

Each pair is expected to retail for US$240. A special Tokyo Collection drop will launch July 1, and will be the main podium shoe for athletes at the Tokyo Olympics this summer. The worldwide release is slated for August 12, with three different colorways available.