Watch: How Adidas 3D-printed shoe out of plastic from the ocean

Parley for the Oceans, an organization dedicated to reducing plastic waste in oceans, has collaborated with Adidas to make a 3D-printed shoe made entirely out of plastic. Although the shoe is just a prototype, the ultimate goal is to demonstrate how the industry can rethink design and help stop ocean plastic pollution.

Eric Liedtke, Adidas Group Executive Board member responsible for Global Brands said, “Future Craft 3D is a prototype and a statement of intent. We have used a one-of-its-kind combination of process and material in an entirely new way. Our 3D-printed midsole not only allows us to make a great running shoe, but also to use performance data to drive truly bespoke experiences, meeting the needs of any athlete.”

The 3D-printed midsole is made from recycled polyester and grill nets, a wall of netting (typically made of monofilament or multifilament nylon) used to catch fish. The upper part of the shoe is made from ocean plastic material.

Adidas claims that the initiative will not only help recycle trash from oceans but also reduce and avoid the production of plastic waste. Adidas says that they will stop pushing plastic bags in all Adidas retail stores.

Adidas also plans on using the technology to produce apparel like shorts and T-shirts. “We don’t have to limit ourselves,” says Lietke. “We can put this in T-shirts, we can put this in shorts, we can put this in all kinds of stuff.”