PollyFab is a global lifestyle brand, producing 3D-printed accessories and shoes.
PollyFab is the consumer manufacturing arm of Polly Polymer, a relatively new producer of advanced materials that are frequently used in 3D-print applications.
Since 2023, PollyFab has designed 3D-printed footwear and smart wearable devices. Their design journey began in 2018, when a young designer imagined a digital footwear design that was finally introduced in 2020. PollyFab recognized his vision, and together they spent 5 years to set up a system to produce the product.
PollyFab currently carries 5 different footwear designs (Aero, Aero Pro, Flux, Airpuff One, and Airpuff One Pro).
- Aero is a barefoot recovery shoe.
- Aero Pro is a lightweight sneaker.
- Airpuff One is a barefoot slipper sneaker.
- Airpuff One Pro is a lightweight sneaker.
I received the PollyFab Flux for a “foot on” test.
Immediately after putting on the shoes, I knew they fit perfectly. I have several years of experience in athletics and now weightlifting, and when I try on a pair of running shoes, I immediately know if they are going to fit well or not. The Flux shoe honestly surprised me.
Before they arrived, I didn’t think they were going to be as comfortable as they are. Running shoes typically have seams and laces and more material pieces to cause rubbing and blisters. These shoes have no visible seams or any parts that would cause blisters. And no laces. So easy to slip on!
The lattice design provides a comfortable, breathable design for more strenuous workouts.
I wore the shoes for eight hours at work, then worked out on a bike and finally lifting weights at the gym. At the end of wearing them for ten hours straight, my feet were still very comfortable.
PollyFab is launching the world’s first “5D” casual footwear. I’ve heard of “4D” printing, where a 3D print articulates after printing, but what is “5D”? I had to do a bit of research.
5-Axis Printing
Dimensions: X, Y, Z + two rotational axes (A, B).
Process: Adds two rotational degrees of freedom to the print head or build platform, allowing printing of curved layers instead of flat ones.
Result: Stronger, more durable parts with complex geometries and fewer weak points, often eliminating the need for supports.
Materials: Similar to 3D printing, but the method yields superior mechanical properties.
In other words, PollyFab is printing these shoes using a 5-axis 3D printing setup, rather than the more popular layer-by-layer FFF technologies.
Hyper Air Technology
The material used by PollyFab for the shoes is a proprietary bio-resin formula. It is a bio-based material that is both biodegradable and recyclable: zero material waste.
The shoe 3D model uses a DODE Lattice design: a DODE lattice is a high-performance, architected material structure. Their ELASTO Elastic Material provides even pressure distribution.
Sizing allows a buyer to choose between: standard foot shape, wide feet, narrow feet, and high instep. They provide an online measurement method if you are unsure. This is a bit different than some other 3D printed footwear systems where scanning or detailed measurements are taken. Nevertheless, my shoes fit absolutely perfectly.
PollyFab’s “5D Adaptive Fit” provides a natural fit for your foot. The material is self-adjusting arch support that personalizes your own foot with adaptive flex zones. This is perhaps why you don’t need custom dimensions: the design compensates.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
The material for the Flux shoe is engineered for movement, providing very good grip and stability.
PollyFab claims that their lattice structure provides better shock absorption than normal EVA foam.
In my testing, the shoe has cushioning that feels great for training.
The shoes are very durable. You can twist and stretch the shoe without it losing its shape.
Uniquely, it is “360 degrees” breathable, top and bottom. The hollow, open design throughout the shoe ensures a constant “air-conditioned” feel during activity.
The lattice design significantly reduces weight — the shoe weighs only 300g — while maintaining performance for a light and agile feel.
If you are looking for high-quality, innovative, and sustainable footwear, these shoes could be your choice. As for me, I am looking into purchasing another different pair: the Air Puff One.
Via PollyFab
