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In recent years, there has been a fierce battle among sneaker manufacturers to innovate, with industry leaders like Adidas and Nike being joined by a new challenger, Asics, reports Techcrunch.
Nike has introduced self-lacing sneakers, while Adidas is experimenting with producing sneaker soles using 3D printers and biodegradable laces. Although Asics is slightly lagging behind the competition in terms of producing models using cutting-edge technology, it has recently announced the introduction of a new manufacturing process using a sort of microwave oven.
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The new technique, developed in collaboration with the Taiwanese company Tayin Research & Development, allows for model personalization and produces a relatively sustainable footwear model – which are two completely opposing concepts when it comes to the apparel industry. Asics’ new manufacturing process involves heat generated by microwaves, which fuses different materials in the production of sneaker soles.
This is all that is currently known, as it appears that the new technology is still in the testing phase, but if all goes according to plan, models created with the new technology could soon be available for sale. At some point in the future, they plan to place so-called microwave ovens in their stores for sneaker production, allowing customers to design their shoes on-site.
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Although the innovation does not differ much from what Adidas offers in its stores in New York, the entire ‘cooking’ process for shoes is expected to take only 15 seconds, which would significantly reduce waiting times in stores.
The process is considerably shorter than the 3D printing process that many companies are currently considering for their shoe production, and it also reduces energy consumption required for the process by nearly 90 percent compared to traditional sole manufacturing processes.
For now, Asics has not provided more detailed information, but they say that the innovation could lead to a greater number of models that customers will be able to choose from in the future; however, for the foreseeable future, this service will be limited.
