Hayabusa Unveils First Ever 3D Printed Boxing Gloves
Hayabusa is a Japanese sports gear manufacturer that specializes in high-performance equipment, such as boxing gloves, for Mixed Martial Arts disciplines (MMA). Recenty, the company introduced a brand new line of 3D printed boxing gloves, called T3D. Hayabusa claims that this is the first instance in which a 3D printing process has been used for boxing gloves.
Ken Clement is the CEO of Hayabusa and he believes this new technology can revolutionize how athletes are protected and comfortable. He may well be right. This is notable because it’s not the first time 3D printing has been used in sports. In recent months, several other companies have introduced 3D-printed projects, including Wilson Sporting Goods. Wilson Sporting Goods has recently released a prototype basketball that was created using 3D printing. This is not the only example. 3D printing has been used to make helmets for the NHL, as well as bicycles that are going to be used at the Olympics. It’s prized because it allows the user to customize every part, which makes the product safer and more comfortable for athletes. Hayabusa probably chose to turn to additive manufacture for their boxing-gloves because of these qualities.
The $159 glove is a first in its class (Photo credit Hayabusa).
Comfortable and Slick Design
Hayabusa used a resin 3D-printing solution, likely an SLA/DLP process, to produce the T3D gloves. There is no specific information about the 3D printer, but this technology replaces traditional foam layers with lattices which contain thousands of dampers. This provides unparalleled precision, something that conventional manufacturing methods cannot achieve. The sports equipment manufacturer claims that the mats are stronger and more durable than other foams.
The T3D Boxing Gloves have been designed for athletes to be more comfortable while absorbing and channeling energy. The gloves are equipped with a wrist splint and a double-strap closure system, which enhances support, comfort and performance. Hayabusa added a thermo-regulating lining to keep hands cool, and the exterior is made of Vylar, the OEM’s leather, increasing the gloves’ durability. Ken Clement says that the gloves are made of Vylar, which is OEM’s leather. This increases their durability. “The T3D boxing glove design has taken years of research, development, and testing to perfect, and we’re ready to define the next era of performance.” To learn more about Hayabusa’s new line of 3D printed boxing gloves, click HERE.
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*Cover Photo Credits: Hayabusa
