Adidas unveiled its Climacool, a fully 3D-printed sneaker crafted using Carbon’s Digital Light Synthesis (DLS) technology—marking a major milestone in mass-market additive manufacturing. Released globally on May 2, 2025 at US $140, this slip-on version features an off-white, breathable one-piece lattice structure
In mid-July, Adidas launched a laced variant equipped with a black tongue and standard laces, retailing at $160 via the Confirmed app and selected retailers—offering a refined fit and sneaker-like aesthetic
✨ 4 Key Innovations
1️⃣ Entirely 3D-printed design
Unlike previous models, Climacool is printed in a single piece, eliminating seams, adhesives, and waste. Each shoe takes around 24 hours to produce using high-tech polymer baking and compression
2️⃣ Engineered for airflow & comfort
With a variable-density lattice structure, the shoe offers 360° breathability and moisture-wicking comfort. Lab results show up to 3 °C lower skin temperature compared to traditional models
3️⃣ Slip-on and laced fit options
Consumers now get to choose between the minimalist slip-on and the new laced version, which features printed eyelets for customizable snugness—catering to diverse foot shapes
4️⃣ Scalable and eco-conscious production
With a production cost of only $28 per pair and an estimated run of 500,000+ units, Climacool represents one of the largest consumer-grade 3D-printed footwear deployments, signaling a shift toward sustainable manufacturing
🔍 Consumer Response & Suitability
Reviews praise the sneakers for comfort, unique style, and washability, though mention their 416 g weight and rigidity. They suit casual wear, urban commuting, and water-friendly environments, but may challenge barefoot use over long periods
🌐 Why This Matters
- Manufacturing breakthrough: Proves full-lattice 3D printing can be scaled beyond prototypes.
- Wider consumer appeal: The laced version makes 3D prints practical and appealing to traditional sneaker buyers.
- Environmental impact: Modular printing eliminates excess material and simplifies recycling.
- Industry shift: Marks Adidas’s shift from novelty to leadership in additive footwear, ahead of other major brands The Verge
✅ Bottom Line
Adidas’s 3D-printed Climacool is more than a futuristic design—it’s a functional, scalable, eco-conscious shoe available in both slip-on and laced formats. Priced between $140 and $160, it sets a new standard for performance footwear, blending comfort, sustainability, and mass-market innovation.
