NEW BALANCE x FORMLABS 990S: U3DSPTBK

Browsing my blog, you probably found that I’m involved with the auto industry as well as footwear. In the auto industry it is very common to see companies using CNC technology to manufacture parts runs, and that is why I gravitated towards the U3DSPTK aka 3D printed NB when the word got out. The use of a 3D printer relates to how we use CNC machines today.

Formlabs created this limited edition 990S TripleCell that utilizes a 3D printed heel, printed from Rebound Resin. The rumor was that these had a limited production run around 500 pairs.

Putting this shoe on-foot is that of a Nike Dunk NL, it feels like there isn’t a liner. The feel of this 990S does not compare to any of the 990 variations…It’s pretty stiff, and isn’t intended for long days on your feet in my opinion.

I had the shoot planned out before the shoes even arrived; I visited my friends at CorteX Racing located at Sonoma Raceway, to use some of their tooling as props. CNC, metal lathes, band saws, drill presses, cold saws etc.

Since the drop of this 990S, Formlabs has created a FuelCell Echo Triple that hosts a 3D printed front section of the midsole, but you won’t see that in my collection. Cool technology, but not my style.