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Adidas Futurecraft 4D Overview
The Adidas Futurecraft 4D was first announced in 2017 where it made headlines as the most futuristic running shoe ever created. It even made Time magazine’s list of the top 25 inventions of that year. In 2017 Adidas released only 300 pairs to family and friends. The official limited release came in early 2018 with just 5000 pairs released globally with an original cost of $300. In March of 2021 the restock release was made and the revamped shoe is now available at outlets everywhere at a lower price of $220.
Adidas 4D Upper
The upper of the Adidas 4D is prime knit and colored all black. There are plenty of perforations throughout the upper to provide a high level of breathability. The upper is surprisingly soft to the touch and is made of one piece that wraps around the entire shoe. The only seam is a clean line up the heel of the shoe. This provides a very clean, simple look that complements the futuristic looking midsole.
A key feature of the upper is its high level of stretchability, especially around the toe box. The shoe features flat black laces and the tongue of the Futurecraft 4D is actually built into the upper. This ensures that the tongue stays in places rather than annoyingly moving out of position when you are running. The Adidas logo features on the top of the tongue.
Adidas 4D Midsole
The 4D midsole is the key point of difference with this shoe. It is printed from resin by a California based company called Carbon. The look of the midsole is very different to the long running Signature Boost midsole profile that Adidas has been featuring for a long time. This latest version of the 4D midsole features a cool lattice work design. This iteration is softer and more comfortable than the original 2018 version.
The iconic Adidas 3 stripes are featured on each side of the shoe in an understated grey tone. These, along with the Adidas logo on the tongue of the shoe, are reflective.
Adidas 4D Sole
The bottom of this shoe comprises a full-length Continental outsole that is quite grippy thanks to its grippy protrusions. There are a number of versions of the 4D that feature different sole patterns but the tip of the toe always features the Adidas logo. The insole of this shoe has also been updated. It is black on the top and white on the bottom and is quite flexible.
Performance
The simplicity of the 4D sole belies the performance and comfort that it provides. The shoe is extremely comfortable, with strategic padding throughout. It has an extremely breathable upper and is very lightweight. The latest version of the 4D lattice is springier and more reflexive than anything that has come before it. When you first run in this shoe, you will feel as close to running on the moon as you will get without going into orbit. The extra propulsion that this affords will also allow you to keep going when you would otherwise have stopped.
The inside of the shoe feels light and free. The attached tongue makes the shoe feel less restrictive than many competing shoes. At the same time, you get a snug, comfy fit that feels locked in and ready to run.
What’s Not So Good
There are not very many things to dislike about the Adidas Futurecraft 4D. One potential problem is that the shoe does not really fit to size. That’s because the midsole can feel a little tight. The prime knit on the 4D is not as stretchable as the midsole on the UltraBoost. As a result, you should probably opt for a half size bigger than your actual shoe size. If you go to a full size larger, your toe area will be too great. If possible, try the shoe on in the store to get the best fit for you.
The Aidias 4D is an expensive shoe, with a recommended retail of $220. This is about $80 less than the original 2018 release, but still about a hundred dollars more than you may be used to paying. If you are after a less expensive runner that still performs, check out the Skechers Men’s Go Run Fast Valor.
Final Thoughts
The Adidas Futurecraft 4D combines aesthetic style, minimalism, and high performance into a package that makes this an impressive running shoe. The springiness and comfort level are ideal to prevent running injuries such as shin splints. Adidas Futurecraft 4D is a versatile runner which you can wear as a casual shoe, for your running exercises, and for your long trail runs.
The latest release of the Futurecraft 4D is about $80 less expensive than the original offering. However, it is still an expensive shoe. Largely due to its initial scarcity, many people will want to grab a pair as a collector’s item. But don’t be fooled by the simple silhouette of this shoe, it is a premium performer and may be worth the extra cost for many serious runners.
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