Kit & Gear

REVIEW: adidas 4D FWD

Combining years of athlete data with the unique technology of 3D printing, the adidas 4D FWD running shoe has been created to provide runners with an all-new running experience.

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adidas 4D is the world’s first high-performance midsole crafted with light and oxygen. The single component design is precisely tuned for controlled energy return - the intricate lattice structure and responsive cushioning absorbs pressure from any angle and returns energy, propelling the foot forward and supporting movement where needed.

For over four years, adidas has developed 4D lattice midsole technology in partnership with Carbon. Combining athlete data and Carbon’s Digital Light SynthesisTM technology to produce precision tuned 3D printed midsoles. adidas 4D footwear is amongst the first in the world to use this cutting-edge technology which offers the ability to fine tune midsoles to specific patterns of movement, so that athletes can enjoy precision performance with every step.

SHOP ADIDAS 4DFWD HERE

We spoke to our SportsShoes.com athletes, Jake Smith and Samantha Harrison, to find out exactly what they think of this revolutionary new running shoe and how they use it to help improve their training and performance.

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SAMANTHA HARRISON

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The adidas 4DFWD is a very distinctive shoe and one that certainly stands out from the crowd. This is mainly because of the 3D printed high-stack midsole, which has been specifically designed to provide tons of cushioning and energy return, whilst encouraging and increasing forward momentum.

The look of the shoe is quite deceptive, as when I initially saw images online, it looked like it might run heavy. However, I was pleasantly surprised by just how light it actually feels and consequently it’s made my training even more enjoyable than I first anticipated.

The 4DFWD offers a snug and comfortable fit whilst also feeling flexible when running on hard ground. Despite having a high-stack midsole, I still feel connected with the ground and always in total control of my stride.

It also seems to be resilient in all weather conditions. With excellent grip on the pavement in the wet conditions, it gives me confidence and I never feel afraid of slowing down on my runs to reduce the risk of slipping.

Personally, I think the fit and feel of the 4DFWD is true to size and the upper construction is extremely comfortable, offering just the right amount of support in every part of the shoe. It has a high arch on the heel, so provides enough protection for the heel and achilles.

The 4D FWD has a 10mm drop, which is pretty standard when compared to any other road running shoe out there. If you are a long to ultra-distance runner, you will most probably appreciate the higher drop.

I think it’s really important for other runners to understand exactly where this shoe fits within the whole of the adidas road shoe range. Designed for athletes of all abilities, this is an everyday shoe that’s perfectly suited to running long training miles, on both the road and the track. It’s a shoe that allows me to soak up big mileage whilst feeling comfortable and well supported with every stride. The 4D FWD is not a lightweight racing shoe, but it does encourage me to run faster for longer and I can certainly feel the benefits of this new and unique technology. The 4D lattice midsole is made up of hundreds of tiny lattice shapes that are designed to help propel runners forward on impact with the ground and I’m delighted to say that this is exactly what makes it so special.

As I look to compete over both half and full marathon distances this year, I’ll be using the adidas 4D FWD to help me improve my times and achieve my personal goals.

Samantha is one of the UK’s leading distance athletes. Having only taken up running seriously in 2018, she has since represented GB in the World Half Marathon Championships in Poland, 2020 and recently recorded 69:48 at the Chester Half Marathon, setting the fastest time this year by a British female athlete over this distance.

Check out our Q&A with Samantha Harrison, to find out more about her international career so far and what she has planned for the future.

You can follow Samantha and all of her running adventures here.

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JAKE SMITH

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The adidas 4D FWD are like no other shoe I’ve ever owned before. I love to wear them for my long runs and strength training in the gym, as they offer me unrivalled comfort and cushioning. They’re also my go-to-shoe for recovery runs, especially when I have tired legs and need that extra bit of bounce. The tiny lattice shapes in the midsole really help to propel me forward during a run and I’ve definitely felt the benefit of using them as part of my daily training routine.

Aside from performance, I love the look of the 4D FWD. The colours are striking and the unique design really helps it to stand out from other shoes on the market. I even wear this shoe casually as it’s perfect for all-round everyday use.

I would really recommend the 4D FWD to other runners who prioritise comfort and cushioning when choosing a new pair of shoes. You don’t need to be an elite athlete to wear them and anyone can feel the benefit of this revolutionary new technology.

Jake has taken the world of athletics by storm over the last 12 months, finishing 18th in the World Half Marathon Championships in Poland, 2020. In what was his first senior race for Great Britain, he recorded a phenomenal debut time of 1:00:36 to post the third fastest time ever recorded by a British athlete over the distance, only eclipsed by distance running greats Mo Farah and Callum Hawkins.

Recently Jake recorded a time of 2:11 at the Chester Marathon (whilst on official pacing duties!) and is now aiming to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics for the 10,000 metres event on the track.

Check out our Q&A with Jake Smith, to learn more about his incredible achievements so far and find out who and what inspires him the most.

You can follow Jake and all of his running adventures here.

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