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# 3D-Printed Sneaker Prototypes
BOA Applies 3D Printing Technology to Its BOA Fit System

By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2021-03-04 | Lifestyle
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sneaker-prototype
References: [develop3d](https://develop3d.com/3d-printing/boa-fit-system-tightens-up-prototyping-3d-printing/?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com)

An essential part of the BOA Fit System is rapid prototyping, which gives the Colorado-based company the ability to speed up the process and allow for testing at a much earlier stage. BOA is known for its [dial fastener system](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boa-technology) and it has been revolutionized thanks to a 3D Systems Figure 4 standalone printer.

The BOA Fit System is used on everything from [snowboard boots to sports shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/danners-work-boots) and medical braces and it gives wearers the ability to customize their fit beyond what normal laces can offer. The three-part system incorporates a micro-adjustable dial, strong lightweight laces and low-friction lace guides. By being able to put [early-stage prototypes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sean-wotherspoon-x-zellerfeld) through real-world challenges, the company gets a much better understanding of the concepts that will hold up or need refinement.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 4.9/10
- Popularity: 77% | Activity: 60% | Freshness: 9%
- Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women
- Primary generations: Millennial
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Sports](https://www.trendhunter.com/sports)

## Key Themes

### Why This Trend Is Growing

- **3D Printing in Footwear Industry:** The use of 3D printing technology in the footwear industry for rapid prototyping and design testing is disrupting traditional manufacturing processes.
- **Customizable Footwear:** The customization trend in footwear is on the rise as companies like BOA use 3D printing to allow customers to personalize their shoe fit beyond what normal laces can offer.
- **Innovative Footwear Fastening Systems:** BOA's dial fastener system is revolutionizing traditional shoelaces and providing new opportunities for companies to create unique and customizable fastening systems.

### Industries Being Reshaped

- **Footwear Manufacturing:** Footwear manufacturing companies can use 3D printing technology for rapid prototyping and customizability to disrupt traditional manufacturing processes.
- **Sporting Goods Industry:** Companies in the sporting goods industry can apply 3D printing technology for innovative and customizable footwear and other gear to stay ahead of the competition.
- **Medical Equipment Industry:** The use of 3D printing technology in the medical equipment industry for prototyping and customization is disrupting traditional manufacturing processes and providing new opportunities for innovative solutions.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [3D-Printed Winter Sport Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bobsled-footwear.md)
- [3D Printed Shoe Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/customfit-3d-printed-shoes.md)
- [3D-Printed Sports Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nike-air-max-1000.md)
- [Intuitive Fastening Ski Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/salomon-spro-supra-boa-ski-boots.md)
- [Scan-to-Print Custom Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vivobiome.md)
- [Personalized Footwear Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/asics-personalization-studio.md)
- [Fit-Focused Work Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/danners-work-boots.md)
- [Technology-Centric Work Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boa-technology.md)
- [Open 3D Printing Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zellerfeld-1.md)