Adidas Unveils Biodegradable Shoes Made From Artificial Spider Silk

Credit: Adidas
Credit: Adidas

Adidas is proving itself to be one of the more progressive shoe companies in the world. Having revealed 3D-printed shoes, sneakers made from ocean plastic, and shoes made by robots in the past, the company recently revealed new, biodegradable footwear made from artificial spider silk.

Wired relays that the Futurecraft Biofabric features an upper made from Biosteel, a 100% biodegradable filament composed of the same proteins that spiders use to make their incredibly durable and pliable webbing. The innovative sneakers were unveiled at the Biofabricate conference in New York City last Thursday.

The fibers, which are similar to spider silk, were developed by Germany’s AMSilk and are said to be 15% lighter than the real deal. In addition, they’re the “strongest fully natural material available,” according to the company. The shoe features an upper made from a completely biodegradable filament made from the same proteins that make spider silk so tough, yet flexible.

Said James Cames, vice president of strategy creation at Adidas, in a statement:

“In a year of ground-breaking innovations from Adidas, the announcement of our partnership with AMSilk—and the unveiling of the Adidas Futurecraft Biofabric shoe—is another step in our commitment to redefining the sports industry.” 

“By using Biosteel fiber, we are moving beyond ‘closed loop’ and into an infinite loop—or even no loop at all,” he added.

Ethical eaters and animal rights activists will love these shoes, as they’re completely vegan. Additionally, no comfort or style will be sacrificed, as the bio-based textile used in the shoe ensures moisture management, breathability, and protection against bacterial growth.

Credit: Adidas
Credit: Adidas

According to the makers, this shoe could help usher Adidas into a new era of sustainability. The company has already proven its devotion to the environment by unveiling a limited edition sneaker made from recycled ocean plastic. Considering the reception that invention garnered, the Futurecraft Biofabric is likely to be well-received.

Says Carnes:

“This concept represents premium innovation. By using Biosteel fiber in our products, we have achieved an unrivaled level of sustainability. We are moving beyond ‘closed loop’ and into an infinite loop—or even no loop at all. This is a pioneering stride forward beyond sustainability into a new territory of bionic innovation.”

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