adidas recently released its brand new 4DFWD, which presents a complete overhaul of the 4D footwear line. The new 4DFWD is engineered with performance and propulsion in mind – every element of the sneaker is designed to push you forward and maximize energy return. Scroll down for our review of the 4DFWD, a sizing guide for Asian feet and tips to styling the performance runner.
The biggest change is the new lattice structure, aka the shape of the tiny pillars within the 3D printed midsole. With the benefit of years of athlete data, adidas has altered the shape and angle of the lattice structure to form a bow-tie. This slight update allows the midsole to convert vertical impact into forward propulsion. In fact, according to adidas, the new 4DFWD midsole offers 23% more cushioning and reduces peak braking forces by 15%.
Other changes include the Primegreen based construction, which is in line with adidas’ commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. The midsole itself is made of 40% renewable and natural materials while the 3D printing process minimizes production waste. The final big change is the stretch web outsole, which stretches with the 4D midsole offering better traction on any terrain.
The 4D midsole creates an interesting, almost fluid-like feel underfoot. When in motion, you can feel the lattice adjusting underfoot and pushing back as pressure is applied on to it with every step. It doesn’t possess the harsh springiness of a carbon footplate, but rather a more progressive form of energy return – it’s proportional to the impact and stride you make. As such it feels stable when walking but springy when you are running.
At standstill, you can feel the midsole adjust underfoot as you rotate your ankles or shift your weight. If you prefer more stability underfoot, we would recommend looking at the 4DFWD Pulse. Its forefoot EVA midsole helps give more structure as compared to the maximum cushioning midsole on the 4DFWD.
The upper is constructed out of Primeknit +, a light, breathable and adaptable version of the knit used on the Ultraboost. To ensure there’s sufficient lockdown, the 4DFWD’s upper has been forged at specific points to provide essential rigidity to hold your foot in place. Combined with lockfit, a form of internal reinforcement, the Primeknit + slowly molds to your foot and offers the sock-like fit we have come to expect from adidas runners.
The Primeknit + upper on the 4DFWD is designed to stretch with use and adapt to your foot shape. As such, we would recommend going true-to-size or going for a half size down if you have narrow feet. If you usually wear a US9 in adidas runners, like the Ultraboost 21, you should purchase your 4DFWD in a US9 for a lose fit or US8.5 for a snug fit. But we highly recommend going to select adidas Performance stores or iRUN stores, where these shoes are available, to try them on to get the perfect fit.
The 4DFWD’s midsole is the star of the show and lends the sneaker a very futuristic aesthetic. Regardless of which colorway you choose, the 4DFWD easily becomes the focal point of both athletic and casual outfits. Here are a few outfit ideas you can reference for inspiration:
Yes, you can! We are running a giveaway where you can score yourself a pair of the 4DFWD or 4DFWD Pulse in your size. Simply head over to our Instagram, @straatosphere, like the giveaway announcement post and fill out this form to complete your entry. The contest closes on September 9 at 23:59 pm (Singapore time).
You can also purchase your pair online at adidas.com.sg or in-store at selected adidas performance and iRUN stores. When selecting your size, reference this 4DFWD sizing and styling guide to make sure you cop the right one for you.
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