ME NEXT is a Chinese footwear startup who is currently developing a 3D-printed sneaker using aerospace technology. The upcoming design features a pioneering buffer structure with shock absorption, which is set to protect the user from possible injuries and fatigue during exercise.
Based in Hong Kong, ME NEXT designed this innovative footwear using an aerospace concept called “Gradient Sandwich Structure” in the midsole, which allows the sneaker’s structure to absorb huge amounts of energy without compromising the wearer’s health and performance. This is the first time ever that this type of technology is applied to footwear.
It’s the same technology that prevents an aircraft from getting damaged when being hit by space debris and meteorites. So you can imagine how much protection you are receiving from this pair of 3D-printed sneakers. According to ME NEXT:
“The bottom layer is designed for absorbing energy from the ground, the middle layer is made for energy storage and transmission, and the top layer can return more energy as force is applied to efficiently reduce fatigue caused by long-distance walking”.
In addition, the outsole and the internal buffer structure are crafted with a recyclable non-toxic and eco-friendly plastic that goes by the name of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). There will be three editions featuring different color combinations. The first alternative is the Sailor, inspired by sports cars; the second one is the Shadow and it references the environmental impact of global warming in the Antarctic; and the last one is the Sunday, inspired by the Chinese culture and facial design of Sichuan Opera.
The groundbreaking sneaker is open for funding on Kickstarter and the first batches will be available to the public in October this year. The pair is not only technologically innovative, but it also provides a bold, breathable and comfortable design.
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