Skip this sentence if you know what a tessellation is; but if you don’t, a tessellation is a pattern of non-overlapping geometric shapes. That’s a hell of a thing to make sunglasses out of, right? What if I also told you they were 3D printed?
That’s exactly what Adidas’ new 3D CMPT sunglasses are. The trellis-like design is modeled and printed with nylon material. A rubberized coating gives the material texture. It’s a one-piece frame, meaning the stems don’t have hinges.
Oh yeah — they also weigh a minute 20 grams, making the 3D CMPT the lightest sports sunglasses on the market. A super limited run will be available.
Here’s a look at the future (maybe? Or just the really weird present?) of sunglasses.
3D Printed Construction and Features
The 3D printed CMPT’s skeleton frame isn’t just there to make you look like you stole the spaceship pilot’s sunglasses. Functionally, it maximizes ventilation, meaning — among other benefits — limited lens fog! The lens itself is also cut out at the corners to add to the effect.
Adidas also adds non-slip inserts at the ear and nosepiece to secure the glasses during exercise.
Then there’s the weight. 20 grams is terra incognita for athletic sunglass weight, with most lightweight cycling entries weighing in around 25-30. It may not sound like much, but consider the fanboy adoration you’ll inspire among any gearhead cyclists, ultralight hikers, paraglider pilots, and so on.
Limited Availability and MSRP
You don’t need astronomical cash to buy the new Adidas 3D printed CMPT, but you might need a teleporter or interstellar vehicle to get ahead of the queue that’s likely to be mobbing the drop. They’re at Adidas’ Creative Club Week, a members-only event that starts on August 23, until they’re gone. 150 pairs will be available at MSRP of $415.