Adidas unveils 3D-printed performance footwear

Adidas has unveiled the Futurecraft 3D performance footwear, featuring a unique 3D-printed running shoe midsole that can be tailored to the cushioning needs of individual feet. The 3D concept is part of the Futurecraft series, an initiative that places open-source collaboration and craftsmanship at the heart of design to drive innovation across all elements of production.

In its 3D concept, which provides the ultimate personalized experience for all athletes, Herzogenaurach, Germany-based Adidas has created a unique combination of material and process that offers individualized support and cushioning for every foot.

The ambition of the 3D-printed midsole concept is to have customers walk into an Adidas store, run briefly on a treadmill, and instantly get a 3D-printed running shoe. The process will create a flexible, fully breathable copy of the athlete’s footprint, matching exact contours and pressure points.

Futurecraft 3D is possible through an open source partnership with 3D-printing specialist Materialise of Leuven, Belgium.