Translated by
Barbara Santamaria
Published
Apr 24, 2019
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Adidas designs 100% recyclable running shoe

Translated by
Barbara Santamaria
Published
Apr 24, 2019

Adidas has released Futurecraft.Loop, a fully recyclable performance shoe.


Adidas' new FUTURECRAFT.LOOP shoe - Adidas


The project aims to tackle the problem of plastic waste, “enabling a ‘closed loop’, where the raw materials can be repurposed again and again. But not just repurposed into a water bottle or a tote, but into another pair of high-performance running shoes,” Adidas explained.

The initiative requires some engagement from the consumer. Old shoes must be returned to Adidas, and are then washed, broken down into smaller components and melted into material for a new pair of shoes.

Tanyaradzwa Sahanga, manager of technology innovation, at Adidas, commented: “There were times when it didn’t seem like we could get over some of the technical hurdles - now we’ve made the first leap, the playing field has changed.

"We’re excited to see this first step come to life as part of the beta launch.”

The manufacture of sports footwear typically involves using complex material mixes and glue. This results in a shoe which can only be downcycled, Adidas said.

After a decade of research and development alongside leading material development, manufacturing and recycling partners across Asia, Europe and North America, the German sports company found a way to change this process. By using only one type of material and eliminating the need for glue, the shoe was made to be recycled from the outset, Adidas explained. Each component of the shoe is made from 100% reusable TPU that is spun into yarn, knitted and moulded. The outer material is then melted using Adidas Speedfactory technology to create a glue-free Boost midsole.

“Futurecraft.Loop is our first running shoe that is made to be remade. It is a statement of our intent to take responsibility for the entire life of our product; proof that we can build high-performance running shoes that you don’t have to throw away,” said Eric Liedtke, Adidas board member and responsible for Global Brands.

The first generation of Futurecraft.Loop shoes has launched as part of a global beta programme with 200 leading influencers from across the world’s top cities. They will be the first to try the shoes and then return them to Adidas, sharing feedback on their experience ahead of a second beta roll out. The findings will shape a roadmap for a wider release, set to take place in Spring Summer 2021.

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