adidas 4DFWD

Constantly on the lookout to incorporate latest innovations and technology in their products, adidas has now launched the all new 4DFWD shoes. The technologically advanced footwear highlights the 4D midsole innovation, with its unique forward motion benefits. 4DFWD is the next big step in 3D print technology, and is the pinnacle of running innovation to elevate the runners' game. The retail giant strongly believes in how the highest priority for a runner is to run fast and to be able to run further, in greater comfort. The continuous feeling of progress with the correct midsole is the key for runners to be successful and the label aims to further strengthen the progress with this new launch. We’re in conversation with the Global Director of footwear, Stephan Scholten, who gives us insight into the latest technology, the benefits to the users and more.

When it comes to innovation, adidas has always been at the forefront. Could you tell us how exactly the 4DFWD technology functions and what it stands for?
The core development in adidas 4DFWD is its unique ‘bow-tie’ lattice midsole. It is made of 39% bio-based material, the new lattice structure has been specifically coded to compress forward upon vertical loading. 

As compared to the previous generations of the 4D midsole, adidas 4DFWD generates three times extra forward motion under vertical loading and mechanical testing conditions. The midsole uses the impact at ground contact to generate forward motion. This results in a smoother transition, with an average reduction of peak braking force by 15 % and running economy at the same level as ULTRABOOST — one of the most successful running shoes on the market. 

Take us through the starting point of these shoes, when exactly did adidas become interested in 3D printing and how have things evolved since then?
Since our association with Carbon, we have been working together towards the goal to create a new dimension of performance running product for the runners. adidas 4DFWD was developed as a performance running shoe to provide a radically new running experience. Our previous launch, 4D Run 1.0 is a great running shoe, however, with adidas 4DFWD we have unleashed the unique capabilities of 3D printing and digital data-driven creation, which we previously could not achieve with traditional midsoles technologies.

It's genuinely a new chapter not only in 4D but also in performance running in general. Compared to the 4D Run 1.0 and previous iterations, adidas 4DFWD generates over three times as much forward motion and 23% more cushioning under vertical loading in mechanical testing conditions. Creating the most advanced 4D running experience ever. Designed to move forward with every step. 

Tell us a bit more about the partnership with Carbon.
We have been working together since 2017. Carbon is a leading 3D printing Technology Company that uses Digital Light Synthesis technology to engineer and create parts for end-user consumption. 4D lattice midsole is the latest technology that we have come up with in our shoes with Carbon. 

What would you say are the consumer benefits when it comes to this new technology?
adidas 4DFWD shoes are made to take the next step in data-driven, 3D printed, running performance shoes, that unlock unique capabilities and give athletes and the wearer an ultimate running experience. 4DFWD shoes offer an all-new running experience to runners looking for smooth transition and gliding sensation during the run. It also delivers the same running economy performance as ULTRABOOST.

How exactly does sustainability, which is the need of the hour, find its way in this new blueprint?
Reinforcing the brand’s commitment to sustainability, adidas 4DFWD is made of recycled material. The unique lattice construct of 4DFWD has 39% bio-based 3D material, with a sustainable PRIMEKNIT+ upper made in part from recycled polyester.

Lastly, do you see this technology in use for a majority of your shoes in the future?
For 4DFWD, the goal was to create a new dimension of performance running product for all runners and provide a benefit for all other occasions, for both elite and amateur. The focus being on radically elevating the feeling of smoothness which helps to make running feel easier. There is definitely more to come in the future, always with the intention to create a very specific running experience for a dedicated audience. We as a brand offer a variety of technologies and innovations that serve against a specific purpose for our runners, such as our adizero franchise, delivering against speed and lightness or our BOOST range delivering comfort.