By Dexter Francis De Vera
Since its inception in 2014, Adidas has continuously applied its innovative 4D technology to numerous models ranging from performance runners to adaptions of the high-end Y-3 line. The 4D has been an icon of design and manufacturing since it was introduced in 2017 and is one of the largest applications of 3D printing in history with millions printed and sold worldwide. Now the 4D has leaped forward once again with the new running shoe with a midsole structure designed to do one thing—push you forward.
Presenting, the Adidas 4DFWD (yes, you pronounced the name “Four Dee Forward”) with a midsole made from Carbon’s latest high-performance resin optimized for forwarding motion and a smoother transition delivering a unique running experience.
Touted as “the future of running” by Adidas Running SVP and General Manager Alberto Uncini Manganelli, the Adidas 4DFWD is the game-changing result of a perfect blend of unconstrained creativity, powerful technology, and bleeding-edge material science.
With 3D printing that uses a digital light synthesis, Adidas has created a new lattice that carefully compresses forward on impact before expanding and sending you in that direction. The exact shape, which sort of looks like a bowtie, was chosen out of five million structures tested and reduces the force of breaking by 15 percent on average, provides 23 percent more cushioning than previous 4D sneakers, and generates up to three times as much forward motion.
Over and above the new 4D lattice on the 4DFWD, Adidas compliments the shoe with its Primeknit upper. As with other recent running shoes, it is manufactured from recycled polyester, which provides a lightweight premium upper along with its sock-like fit. This gives runners the most support and comfort they need when hitting the road or treadmill.
Switching to the bottom of the shoe, the rubber outsole works in harmony with the 4DFWD midsole. It makes for superior traction. The shoe has a 11.3mm stack height, forefoot stack height of 21.2mm and a rear foot stack height of 32.5mm.
The Adidas 4DFWD is now available in limited quantities in both Core Black and Solar Red colorways for P9900 via the Adidas app and selected stores. The Tokyo Collection colorway will release on July 1, which will be the main podium shoe for athletes in Tokyo this summer, before it launches globally on Aug. 12.
To know more, follow the conversation on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter using #adidas4DFWD and @adidasrunning or visit www.adidas.com/4d_fwd
