The Sneakerbot II by Recreus Could Be the Future of Sneakers

Imagine this: Nike tweets out a link of one of its latest models, but instead of copping and waiting for delivery like you normally do, you instead purchase the print schematics and print out your latest Nikes right in the comfort of your own home. Sounds crazy right? Well the possibility of that happening is now a reality.

Harnessing the power of 3D printing and a material called FilaFlex, not to be confused with Fila, Recreus has developed the Sneakerbot II that anyone with access to a 3D printer can print out for themselves. While the technology isn't exactly a common piece of equipment in people's homes just yet, it could very well be a few years down the road. Remember when having a mini-disc player was a luxury? OK, bad example, but you get our drift. 

Anyone that's followed developments in 3D printing knows the product potential is limitless and it could only be a matter of time before many of us are buying schematics instead of traditional sneakers. Imagine downloading torrents of your favorite models. It'd be a new age of bootlegging and fakes. On a more positive note though, imagine being able to print out shoes for everyone in need and those struggling in third world countries. The idea could be life changing.

Whatever the case, the future is here and our footwear rotations may never be the same. If you're interested in the sneaker featured here, you can download the plans on Thingiverse.











[via Thingiverse]