Spanish start-up ATHOS, is looking to change the sports footwear industry with a first-of-its-kind 3D printed climbing shoe, made to fit the feet and needs of each climber using HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing.

ATHOS identified a major problem in the world of climbing footwear – the need to buy two or three sizes too small to gain the necessary support – and sought a solution to create a customized, sustainable, high-performance climbing shoe. HP 3D technology has enabled ATHOS to combine technology and innovation to put the climber at the center of the entire design and production process: a process that begins with the scanning of the user’s feet, followed by printing, post-processing, assembly of parts and finally, the delivery of the end product.

In addition, ATHOS has reached the national finals for the prestigious James Dyson Award, as the first 3D printed custom climbing shoe thanks to its philosophy focused on the combination of customization, innovation, and consumer health.

To print the shoes, ATHOS are leveraging the capabilities of Sculpteo, a leading online 3D printing service with operations in both France and California. A member of HP’s Digital Manufacturing Partner Network, Sculpteo are equipped with HP Multi Jet Fusion technology, allowing ATHOS to create end-products that are flexible, customizable and sustainable.

“We are seeing how 3D printing technology is changing the sports footwear industry, including shortening production times and developing innovative and sustainable ideas,” said Wayne Davey, Global Head of 3D Printing Solutions Go-to-Market, HP Personalization & 3D Printing, HP Inc. ” ATHOS is a clear example of companies are adopting HP’s innovative 3D technology solutions to change an entire market and address consumer needs.

“It was very important for us to implement additive manufacturing in an innovative way, which is why HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing technology is the perfect choice for creating more customizable and sustainable products. The benefits of customization and on-demand production help us to deploy a more environmentally responsible consumer and manufacturing model,” said Emili S. Taixés and Romina Milesi, Co-Founders and Managing Partners of ATHOS.