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Developed in collaboration with University of Southern Denmark professor Dr. Martin Hanczyc, the theoretical shoe is made from synthetic biological materials made up of “protocells” which, while not living, are able to combine and obtain lifelike properties. It would be 3D-printed to fit your foot exactly, and would have the ability to inflate or inflate in reaction to the movement and pressure you create while running. Running enthusiast Martin Holguin has more.
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The Running Shoe of the Future Martin Holguin December 13, 2013 Today I came across one of the most fascinating articles I’ve seen in quite sometime, straight from the Wearable Futures conference. Apparently, a British researcher has created a prototype of a 3D-‐printed running shoe that conforms to your foot, adapts to your run, and repairs itself in between journeys. Sounds pretty impossible, and I guess it still is for now, but researcher Shamees Aden believes the design will be ready for sale by 2050. Developed in collaboration with University of Southern Denmark professor Dr. Martin Hanczyc, the theoretical shoe is made from synthetic biological materials made up of “protocells” which, while not living, are able to combine and obtain lifelike properties. It would be 3D-‐printed to fit your foot exactly, and would have the ability to inflate or inflate in reaction to the movement and pressure you create while running. The protocells in the futuristic shoe would lose their energy during your run, so owning a pair would be akin to watering and tending to the needs of a plant. You would place the shoes in a jar filled with protocell liquid over night, restoring their energy and original qualities. I can imagine, to a non runner, the technology might seem a little silly, or perhaps unnecessary. But when you love running as much as I do, you know how wonderful it is to find a shoe that really feels like an extension of your own body. You know the energy you’re ready to commit to keeping your shoes and other gear in good shape. And you know how much it can cost to constantly be replacing your shoes every season. I can’t wait for the day they make these available to the public–I just hope I’m still up and running! Lt Cmdr Martin Holguin has served in the United States Navy since 1999 aboard five U.S. warships in positions ranging from division officer to commanding officer. He also served with the Chief of Naval Operations Strategic Studies Group as a Director Fellow. He also loves running.