Better breathable cycling shorts thanks to 3D printing

2023-11-28 11:05:16

Endurance athletes – and other cyclists – can make their cycling efforts more comfortable and waste-free thanks to 3D printing. Sportswear manufacturer Gorewear uses 3D printed pads from Elastic Interface in the Ultimate Bib Shorts. Giorewear receives the 2023 ISPO Design Award this week.


Optimal seating comfort remains a challenge for cyclists. To make progress here, Gorewear has teamed up with the new Ultimate Bib Shorts Elastic Interface developed a solution in which 3D printing plays a role.

Elastic Interface 3D print seat cushions with very open cell structure for better temperature and moisture regulation

Waste-free production process

The innovative N3X seat cushion is made with 3D printing technology. Recycled materials are used and the production of the filling is waste-free. Partly thanks to 3D printing, only material that is necessary is used and if any waste is created somewhere, it can be used in the next production run. The pad is produced without chemicals and is mechanically assembled without glue or adhesive film.

Printing open cell structure

The N3X pads are functional because the open cell structure ensures great breathability. This improves airflow to cool the area and wick away moisture, meaning faster drying and optimally constant skin temperature. This innovative filling uses 3D printing for the first time. “With our new Ultimate Bib Shorts we improve riding comfort, product durability and environmental friendliness,” says Jürgen Erd, Product Leader of Gorewear.

Lovende jury ISPO Design Award

The ISPO Design Award jury awards the prize in the Bike & Commuting category. The jury praised the innovation thanks to 3D printing, the sustainable production process and use of materials, the functionalities such as breathability and the appearance. “Several high-tech textile techniques come together here: 3D printing and an innovative weaving technology that seamlessly integrates different functional zones. The use of recycled materials and the waste-free production of the filling is another plus,” said the jury ISPO Design Award.

This is what the open cell structure of the 3D printed pads looks like. (Photos Elastic Interface)

Quality mark

Massimo Fregonese, the CEO of CyTech, owner of the Elastic Interface brand, is proud of the role the supplier played in winning the ISPO Design Award. “Over the years, we have created exceptional products for cyclists with Gorewear and this award not only recognizes the excellence and innovation of the product, but also represents a prestigious seal of approval for our fruitful ten-year partnership.”

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#breathable #cycling #shorts #printing

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