Could the future of fitness footwear be springy, resilient lattice structures?
This week, New Balance released information on the development of a new platform called TripleCell, an initiative created with 3D printing technology company Formlabs.
The relationship was announced way back in 2017, with Formlabs, a Massachusetts-based leader in 3D printing working with New Balance to develop high performance materials, hardware and a manufacturing process for athlete footwear.
Through the partnership, a new proprietary photopolymer resin was created called Rebound Resin, a material designed to create springy, resilient lattice structures with the durability, reliability, and longevity expected from an injection moulded thermoplastic.
Why is 3D printing so important to the plans of New Balance? Well, according to Dávid Lakatos, Chief Product Officer of Formlabs, “3D printing is changing how companies approach manufacturing, with this announcement New Balance is pioneering localized manufacturing. By eliminating the dependence on moulds and direct printing for both prototyping and production, their team shifts from months to hours in the development and production cycles. We’re moving towards a world where design cycles are closing in on the whim of the consumer and it’s exciting to be on the frontlines of this with New Balance.”
Katherine Petrecca, New Balance General Manager, Innovation Design Studio said, “This new, cutting edge, digitally manufactured technology is now scaling exclusively within New Balance factories in the U.S. further establishing us as a leader in 3D printing and domestic manufacturing. Formlabs has been an integral partner to bring this to life. We’re really going to be able to disrupt the industry not only in performance, but also in athlete customization and speed to market“
New Balance launched TripleCell technology with a rerelease of the classic 990 Sport on 28 June. A new shoe, the FuelCell Echo, will be released on 15 September.
TripleCell technology in the heel of the 990 delivers the cushioning experience found in the classic style but is 10% lighter than the 990v5.
The 990 Sport costs £180 and is available from New Balance while stocks last.
