Adidas has expanded its 4D range with a new reflective Alphaedge 4D running shoe. The distinctive 3D printed design now features across the sportswear brand’s categories.
Adidas 4D was first revealed as a concept release from Futurecraft – adidas’ innovation incubator – in 2017. The midsole is printed with light and oxygen using Carbon Digital Light Synthesis technology pioneered by Silicon Valley-based company, Carbon.
Personalised footwear on the horizon
The two companies came together to combine years of athlete data with the latest 3D printing technology which allows products to be created at considerable commercial scale.
This technology enables huge benefits for both athletes and consumers and the adidas 4D data-led design innovation will eventually create personalised footwear based on specific sports and individual athlete needs.
Adidas 4D was created as a unique solution that can be precisely tuned to respond to the movement patterns, weight and gait of the user.
This means that in the future adidas foresees designing the lattice in a way which suits the movements of a certain sport, as well as personalised based on the data of an individual. The new reflective design on the upper makes this version of Alphaedge stand out even more, especially for training in low light.
Additional product features include:
- Carbon Digital Light Synthesis technology: Uses digital light projection, oxygen-permeable optics and programmable liquid resins to print high-performance, durable polymeric products. The technology uses data to translate the needs of a performance category, and eventually individual athlete or consumer, with the required movement, cushioning and stability directly into a midsole.
- Primeknit upper, with Frogefiber: A super-lightweight upper that features a reflective prime knit used on the full upper, for maximum reflectivity, encases your foot in a seamless sock-like fit providing the support and comfort needed during sharp lateral movements and tight turns. Each thread is individually constructed millimeter by millimeter, in a process using TPU-coated yarn, that maximises performance when stitched at various angles and layers for ultimate strength in motion.
- Continental outsole: The Continental rubber outsole draws on 140 years of Continental tyre technology and research, with engineered traction zones to support deeper cuts and faster acceleration, regardless of surface terrain or weather.
Available on adidas e-commerce and at adidas Sandton store only from 16 November 2019 at a retail price of R4,999.
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
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