3D printing is one of the coolest things happening in footwear right now. From futuristic designs to promises of custom-fit comfort, brands are experimenting like never before. In June, Adidas dropped the second generation of their Climacool 3D Printed Shoes, and sneaker fans have been buzzing about it. But do these shoes actually live up to the hype?
Gen 1 vs Gen 2: What’s New?
The first Climacool was all about simplicity — a slip-on shoe with a breathable mesh look. The second one added laces and a tongue, making it easier for people with higher insteps but at the cost of breathability. Here’s the quick breakdown:
| Feature | Gen 1 | Gen 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Lacing System | Slip-on, no laces | Added tongue & laces |
| Upper Material | Open mesh, super breathable | Less breathable due to tongue |
| Color Tone | Beige / cream | Closer to off-white |
| Shape | Full and chunky | Slimmer, sleeker |
| Curvature | Deeper midsole curves | Softer, smoother curves |
| Outsole | Identical — no changes | |
Verdict: Gen 1 looks bold and minimalistic. Gen 2 is easier for wider feet and more practical, but loses some of the airy vibe.
How Gen 2 Feels on Foot
Sneakerheads who tested Gen 2 gave mixed reviews:
- Solved the pressure problem on the instep.
- Easier to wear with the tongue and laces.
- Material friction makes it hard to slip on (pulls at socks).
- Forefoot is stiff and doesn’t flex easily, making heels lift when walking.
- Midsole grooves can dig slightly into the foot during push-off.
- Durability is still questionable — bending and outsole wear are untested.
Some users even preferred going sockless since the material felt rubbery and tugged at socks. Weight-wise, it’s heavier than expected, probably because the upper needs to be thick to avoid cracking.
Gen 1 Feedback
Gen 1 users had a different experience:
- Comfortable enough for daily walking and casual use.
- Secure fit — wraps around the ankle and midfoot really well.
- Hard to wear with thick socks, best with thin ones.
- Narrow fit — wide feet need to size up.
- Aesthetic appeal was huge; many praised its sleek and clean look.
Reddit on Adidas Climacool 3D Printed Shoes Gen 1
- Design: Some loved the futuristic look, others said it looked like “future Crocs.”
- Comfort: Mixed feedback. Okay for short wear, but too stiff for long walks.
- Durability: Worries about cracks and wear, though some users said they held up fine outdoors.
- Price: Considered high, but many accepted it as the cost of new tech.
- Future: Lots of excitement about 3D printing potential, but doubts about comfort and scalability.
Takeaway: The excitement is real, but skepticism remains. People buy these shoes for novelty and design rather than long-term comfort.
Where 3D Footwear Could Go Next
Both Adidas and Alpine show us the promise — and the limits — of 3D shoes. The next generation could bring:
- Rubber outsoles for more durability.
- Better post-processing to reduce friction inside.
- Personalized fit via foot scanning and custom 3D prints.
- Lighter builds without losing durability.
Style Tips
- Gen 1: Works well with minimalist outfits—slim joggers, tapered jeans, or even shorts. The full, sculpted design pairs nicely with clean streetwear aesthetics.
- Gen 2: Slimmer and sleeker, making it a better fit with tailored joggers, techwear, or smart-casual fits.
Final Thoughts
3D printed sneakers are exciting, but they’re not perfect yet. Adidas has made progress from Gen 1 to Gen 2, but both generations still have issues with durability and comfort.
For now, if you’re buying these shoes, do it for the design and novelty. The comfort and everyday wearability will catch up in future generations — and when they do, the sneaker world is going to change big time.
FAQ
Are 3D printed shoes durable enough for daily wear?
Right now, durability is hit-or-miss. Some users report cracks and wear, while others say they’ve held up outdoors. Expect them to last less than traditional sneakers.
Is Gen 2 better than Gen 1?
Gen 2 is more comfortable for wider or high-instep feet, but it loses some breathability. Gen 1 feels bolder in design but harder to put on.
Why are 3D printed shoes so expensive?
Because the tech is still new, production is limited and costs are high. You’re also paying for innovation and exclusivity.
Do 3D printed shoes feel different from regular sneakers?
Yes — they can feel stiffer, and the material often has more friction. Some users even prefer wearing them without socks for comfort.
