Adidas Unveils BB.01: World's First 3D Printed Basketball Shoe

Adidas Basketball has introduced the BB.01, the first product from its Project: Radical Athlete Perception (R.A.P.) initiative. This new performance basketball shoe utilizes additive manufacturing to create products tailored to individual athletes and the specific demands of basketball. The BB.01 features a 3D printed lattice structure designed to provide a customized fit and enhance movement.

Project: R.A.P. aims to revolutionize athletic footwear by leveraging 3D printing for personalized solutions. According to Adidas, the BB.01's lattice construction offers a unique, forward-looking feel with every step. The shoe will make its on-court debut with Adidas athlete Mikel Brown Jr. during his NBA Summer League appearance.

Adidas views this launch as a demonstration of its future direction in performance footwear. The BB.01 is being released in a limited quantity of 169 pairs worldwide, with specific allocations for the Adidas Las Vegas flagship store, the CONFIRMED app, and Greater China. The release strategy includes an in-store activation in Las Vegas on July 10th, offering a glimpse into the shoe's design and development process, followed by a digital release on July 14th for $250.

The company emphasizes that Project: R.A.P. is an ongoing effort to push the boundaries of performance footwear. The core appeal of additive manufacturing for Adidas lies in its ability to achieve precise, athlete-specific fits, addressing a long-standing challenge in mass-produced footwear. This focus on personalization aligns with efforts by other sports brands, such as Brooks and On in running, and ATHOS in climbing, to tailor footwear to individual biomechanics and performance needs.