"As a mechanical engineer and a runner I can't comment on the design side of this, but I just don't see how 3D printing can improve shoes. It will only make them more expensive and more prone to fatigue and failure. Especially when considering aspects such as pronation of the foot, different length legs, etc I can only envision that this kind of sole will degrade faster an dmore unpredictable than the soles we have. And for all its worth we have the best quality athleticwear that has ever existed. I agrees with amunta nul in that this could be interesting for a small percentage of the population IF this gave us the ability to tailor soles and shoes to certain needs / disabilities / rehab scenarios. For mass production I don't see any advantage. "