The Ultimate Adidas Futurecraft 4D Review and Sizing Guide

Adidas is no stranger when it comes to top-tier cushioning systems. The Boost foam technology became the benchmark when it comes to foam-based cushioning. But in 2017, adidas introduced a brand new midsole called the 4D. A mass-produced 3D printed shoe that offers a mix of comfort and support like never before. The adidas Futurecraft 4D debuted this type of midsole with running performance as the main focus. This Adidas Futurecraft 4D Review will give you an idea on how the shoe fits, and why it’s worth giving 3D-printed ahoes a try!

The Technology Behind The 3D Printed-Midsole

The 4D midsole is one of the most unique cushioning systems we’ve seen to date. The fact that the shoe is not made up of foam, but rather uses a 3D printed midsole made up of light and oxygen makes this one of th most innovative shoes of all time. 3D Printing Specialists ‘Carbon’ teamed up with adidas to make this vision possible. Introduced in 2017, the adidas Futurecraft 4D remains one of the more premium footwear offerings from the German sportswear brand and one of the most futuristic shoes to date.

This definitely isn’t your average running shoe! To create the midsole, carbon incorporates what they call Digital Light Synthesis, a 3D Printing process that uses digital light projection, oxygen-permeable optics and programmable liquid resins and forms polymeric materials. Incredibly, the same process occurs on the Adidas 4D. To perfect this, the brand took 17 years’ worth of data from runners; utilising the data in to create performance zones on the midsole’s shape for a more supportive ride without losing that beloved cushioning.

The lattice structure of the midsole combines stability, support, and bounce; making it a versatile choice for running or simply as a everyday lifestyle shoe. Airy Primeknit makes up the upper construction of the shoe and reduces the overall weight of the adidas Futurecraft 4D.

Performance Benefits of the Adidas Futurecraft 4D

If you’re expecting something like the Boost, you won’t find it here. However, unlike Boost which can feel overly bouncy to some, the 4D midsole technology offers a lot of support and stability when running. This is a great option for runners who love the natural motion of a neutral running shoes while looking for the support of a dedicated distance shoe. Below are some of the best features found on the adidas Futurecraft 4D

Top Feature of the Adidas Future craft 4D

• 4D Midsole does not bottom out faster than the likes of Boost Bounce foam.

• Continental Rubber Outsole ensures reliable grip with long-lasting traction durability.

• Sock-like Primeknit upper gives a sock-like fit.

• Supportive Cushioning that lasts.

If you need to know more about adidas cushioning systems and how they compare against other brands, check out this Captain Creps article on the Best Shoe Cushioning Technologies of All Time.

How does the adidas Futurecraft fit? Are they true to size?

While the Primeknit is soft and will adapt to the shape of your foot after wearing them a couple of times, the adidas Futurecraft 4D feels a little narrow. The Primeknit fabric features a tighter weave to keep the structure of the upper intact. It’s recommended to go a half size up to get that true to size fit.

Those with narrow feet can stick to their usual size with adidas (remember that Nike and adidas sizing are different).

Is the adidas Futurecraft 4D a good running shoe?

While Boost and Lightstrike foam remain the popular choices among adidas running creps, the 4D midsole provides more support. The adidas Futurecraft 4D Running Shoe is unlike anything we’ve seen before; but the brand’s design implementation and execution turned out incredibly well.

The adidas Futurecraft 4D is a perfect running shoe for those looking for more support while still keeping a decent amount of cushioning. This is a suitable trainer for short runs and light workouts where you won’t need maximum cushioning.

If you’re looking to cop this as a casual shoe, the adidas Futurecraft 4D also boasts wonders for streetwear enthusiasts. The 4D Technology is surprisingly comfortable and gives the right amount of bounce without feeling unstable.

Newer adidas 4D models such as the 4DWFD and 4DFWD Pulse are also some of the good running options with adidas’ 4D midsole.

Is the adidas Futurecraft 4D worth the price?

Running shoes are extremely expensive nowadays as brands continue bringing ground-breaking tech left, right and centre. The adidas Futurecraft 4D is definitely worth the price if you’re looking to try something new. You can’t go wrong with the support and comfort it offers, making up for one versatile trainer that you can also wear casually.

There are a lot of adidas 4D silhouettes that came out in the past two years; each with its own unique designs but retaining the lattice midsole. The adidas Futurecraft 4D 1.0 is still available at adidas with brand new colourways here

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How does the adidas Futurecraft compare to the Ultraboost?

While both pairs may look the same, the Futurecraft feels very different compared to the Ultraboost. The Primeknit upper may feel familiar, but the midsole cushioning setup is where things are completely different.

For those who are not yet familiar with Boost, this is a foam-based cushioning made out of eTPU (expanded thermoplastic polyurethane) pellets compressed to provide a soft and bouncy ride. Boost-Enabled Adidas Shoes are make incredible cushioned running shoes but may be criticised for the support they offer.

In short, 4D focuses on support and stability; while Boost goes for maximum energy return and responsiveness via the ground-breaking Boost Midsole Foam.

Luckily for fans of both sneakers, adidas combined the Ultraboost with a 4D midsole and created the adidas Ultra 4D. The shoe features the Primeknit upper construction of an Ultraboost with a full-length lattice 4D midsole.

If you’ve never tried the adidas Ultraboost, check out this Captain Creps Ultraboost Review to get an idea on how comfortable it is.

Where can I buy the Adidas Futurecraft?

The adidas Futurecraft 4D is available on adidas and select retailers worldwide. Below we listed some stores where you can find the adidas Futurecraft 4D, as well as other adidas 4D models available on the market.

Adidas Futurecraft 4D –

• adidas
• END
• Offspring

Adidas Ultra 4D –

• adidas
• END Clothing
• Offspring

Final Thoughts

The adidas 4D collection focuses on the Running and Lifestyle categories. While this is a new midsole setup, expect adidas to develop and improve the 4D midsole. Expect even more cushioning while retaining the solid support it offers. This is definitely one of the most intriguing adidas products in the past two years.

For further related reading we recommend the following articles:

Is the Adidas Ultraboost the most comfortable sneaker of all time?

What Is The Best Shoe Cushioning Technology Of All Time?

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