---
title: "HYBEX’s new sneaker integrates motion-propelling 3D printed midsole"
url: https://www.voxelmatters.com/hybex-sneaker-motion-propelling-3d-printed-midsole/
date: 2026-03-09
modified: 2026-03-09
lang: en
author: "Tess Boissonneault"
description: "Following a two-year development period, Japan-based running brand HYBEX has officially launched its first sneaker, the HX LENS. The product is no ordinary running shoe: carefully designed for performance, it..."
categories:
  - "3D Printed Footwear"
  - "Consumer Products"
  - "Japan"
tags:
  - "future"
image: https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LENS_White_03-640x455.jpeg
word_count: 425
---

# HYBEX’s new sneaker integrates motion-propelling 3D printed midsole

Following a two-year development period, Japan-based running brand HYBEX has officially launched its first sneaker, the HX LENS. The product is no ordinary [running shoe](https://www.voxelmatters.com/category/3d-printed-consumer-products/3d-printed-footwear/): carefully designed for performance, it integrates a 3D printed motion-propelling midsole and an "anatomically engineered" upper that are said to offer a new running experience.

The HX LENS sneakers, which come in black, white and purple, have a sleek profile and relatively modest upper. What really grabs the eye when looking at them is the midsole with the hollow lattice structure. This midsole offers enhanced performance by replacing traditional foam with a unique (and patented) metamaterial structure called Helix.

[![HYBEX](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LENS_Black_01-340x340.jpeg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LENS_Black_01.jpeg)Working with [Carbon's](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/carbon3d/) DLS 3D printing technology, HYBEX created a metamaterial structure that compresses while rotating forward. This means that with every impact, the shoe not only absorbs the impact and reduces braking forces, it also transforms that energy into forward propulsion through rotational motion. For the wearer, this means that every step propels them resulting in high-efficiency motion.

"This technology enables both high impact absorption and smooth weight transfer—two qualities that have traditionally been difficult to achieve simultaneously in conventional running shoes," HYBEX writes on its website. "Runners are able to move forward fluidly, without the sensation of braking, and experience a smooth, continuous sense of motion while running."

According to HYBEX, its 3D printed midsole has been rigorously tested, with over 500 km covered in road tests with no structural fatigue, damage or deformation. Lab tests, including 125,000 continuous flex cycles (at a 50*°* angle and a rate of 70–100 rpm), also showed no structural failure in the metamaterial structure. These results show that the 3D printed sneakers are highly durable and can withstand the effects of running over long periods—a must for running enthusiasts.

[![HYBEX](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LENS_Black_04-340x340.jpeg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LENS_Black_04.jpeg)Notably, the 3D printed midsole is supported by an underlying "supercritical foam" layer that helps to control rebound and stability. The sole of the shoe, for its part, is cast from CPU, which offers a superior combination of grip and slip resistance compared to traditional rubber. Other notable features of the shoe are integrated ventilation pathways in the insole that enable good air flow through the 3D printed lattice midsole and a double-layer upper that keeps the foot stable while remaining lightweight.

The HX LENS sneakers officially launched at a special event on February 20th and are now for sale on the company's website. They are retailing for ¥28,600 a pair (~$180). If you are interested in reading more about 3D printed footwear—a critical subsegment in the consumer AM space—you can [find more here](https://www.voxelmatters.com/category/3d-printed-consumer-products/3d-printed-footwear/).