Two short years ago, adidas released its 4D sneakers as part of the FUTURECRAFT technology space. Today, adidas Running has announced the next step in the 3D-printed innovation with the adidas 4DFWD.
For the latest drop, the focus has been on developing a shoe that has been data-driven, designed to move runners forward. The adidas 4DFWD combines years of athlete data, along with the 4D technology, culminating in a unique running experience for wearers.
Moving Forward
The 4D lattice midsole is the output of work over the past four years through its partnership with Carbon. adidas has combined the partnership with athlete data to Carbon’s Digital Light Synthesis technology. The result of which is the creation of a precision-tuned 3D-printed midsole. This makes the adidas 4DFWD one of the first shoes to offer the ability to fine-tune the midsoles for specific patterns of movement. It allows for a more precise performance for athletes in every stride.
The technology goes beyond what you see on the surface. The lattice 4DFWD lattice structure was identified from 5 million possible options. In addition to this, it is crafted from 39% bio-based materials. The bowtie-shaped FWD CELL has been specifically designed to compress forward upon downward impact. It allows wearers to continue their forward momentum.
The updated 4DFWD, when compared against previous 4D midsoles, has increased forward motion by up to three times, through this movement. This also allows for the beak braking force from the athlete to be reduced by an average of 15%. The updated performance delivers an improved economy compared to previous 4D and Ultraboost midsoles in lab conditions.
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.
Technical Details
Switching to the bottom of the shoe, the rubber outsole works in harmony with the 4DFWD midsole. It makes for superior traction. In terms of the technicalities, the shoe has a 11.3mm stack height, forefoot stack height of 21.2mm and a rearfoot stack height of 32.5mm.
Another part of the redesign has been the effort in keeping the shoe’s weight down. Each 4DFWD shoe weighs about 333g for a size 8.5UK.
The adidas 4DFWD will drop in three colourways at launch. This also includes a special Tokyo Collection drop. It is set to be the main podium shoe for athletes in Tokyo Olympics later this year.
