Adidas 3D CMPT gets into the 3D printed sunglasses game
Produced with Milan-based Marcolin Group
After teaming up with Milan-based eyewear manufacturer Marcolin in 2019, adidas is stepping up its sunglasses game with the first pair of 3D printed sunglasses. The new adidas 3D CMPT clearly show that the company intends to make 3D printing a core manufacturing process on a number of products beyond the very successful 4D FUTURECRAFT footwear.
3D CMPT, as the frame is called, is produced in collaboration with Marcolin Group (whose brand portfolio includes Tom Ford, Guess, Moncler, Timberland, and countless others), boasting a flexible nylon structure that has been treated with a special coating to give it a rubberized effect across the surface. The deal with Marcolin, valid until 2024, saw the first eyewear products hit the market beginning in 2020. Under the terms of the licensing agreement, Marcolin Group designs, develops, manufactures, markets and sells eyewear products under the adidas Badge of Sport and Originals labels.
According to a press release, which we could not obtain but was reported by various online portals (the first one in order of time that we could find is Cycling Tips), the frame is made with flexible nylon enhanced with a rubberized coating throughout, which would indicate that the technology used is not Carbon’s DLS but a PBF process such as SLS or MJF by HP. Filling out that frame which is a shield-type spherical mirrored polycarbonate lens with a brown base and light mirror coating. Non-slip bits at the nosepiece and the ends of the arms promise a secure fit.
Weighing in at just 20 grams, the one-piece frame draws feature a spiraling, textured build. Non-slip contact points on the nose pads and end tips are implemented not only to ensure a comfortable fit but also to improve stability no matter the movement. The design is made complete with an integrated spherical mirrored lens shield crafted from ultra-lightweight polycarbonate.
“In sport, and as in everyday life, the dynamic soul of the individual requires attention to detail. That attention and care have been translated into new shapes, weights, and volumes for sunglasses designed for game and playtime,” adidas said in the press release.
Created with professional athletes in mind, but also made for the casual sportsperson, the 3D CMPT sunglasses will initially be available in matte black with brown and mirror silver lenses exclusively at adidas.com during Creative Club Week for Club Members beginning August 23. The initial price point is similar to the initial price point of the FUTURECRAFT 4D sneakers, with the glasses retailing for $415/£300/€350. However, it is likely that if successful the price will come down to a more accessible price-point as was the case for the shoes.
