Wilson Releases $2,500 3D Printed Airless Basketball – Wilson Sporting Goods Company recently launched the Airless Gen 1, the world’s first 3D printed basketball. This is a new invention which costs $2,500. This is a major innovation in the technology of sports equipment, as this ball has a lattice design that ensures consistent performance and jumping. It also has customization options like availability of your own name labels and different colors.
Eric Koford, co-owner and co-founder of Wilson Sporting Goods, said, “By adopting 3D printing technology, we sought to take the ball to another level. Our engineers spent years of hard work developing a structure that which delivers consistent performance with every jump and every attack.”
Reasons to develop airless ball
The purpose of developing this airless basketball was to create a ball that would bounce well and be durable instead of relying on air pressure. Normally basketball depends on air pressure, but this ball is designed in a completely different way.
Wilson’s 3D-printed airless basketballs are being sold for $2,500 each.@Alex__Schiffer breaks down the new tech on today's episode » https://t.co/NsXumkiYbv pic.twitter.com/wRVV2k4657
— Front Office Sports Today (@FOS_Today) February 16, 2024
Benefits and Features
One of the main benefits of the Airless Gen 1 is its lattice design that delivers consistent performance and leaps. This structure is made using 3D printing technology which gives complete control over the internal structure of the ball. This makes the ball bounce very stable and consistent making it easier for players to control and handle the ball.
Its second advantage is its durability. Normally basketballs are subject to air pressure which can cause holes or leaks. But the Airless Gen 1 is designed to withstand harsh impacts without losing shape or bounce. It is made of a proprietary material that is strong and lightweight.
“To create this ball, we developed a material that is both strong and lightweight,” said Amanda Crawford, Wilson’s marketing vice president. You will get control.”
Apart from all this, Airless Gen 1 also has the option of customization. Players can also label the ball with their choice of color and name. This gives them the opportunity to create their own identity on the ball and add their own style to their game.
Criticism and future
Airless Gen 1 is a major innovation in sports equipment technology that could change the way balls are manufactured and used. But its expensive price will be suitable only for professional players and teams who have so many resources. Ordinary players and school teams may not be able to purchase it.
Critics say that although it is an important innovation, its high price makes it just a high-end product. Dr. Rajesh Kumar, a sports scientist at the hospital, said, “3D printing technology is constantly being developed and the price of such products may come down in the times to come. At present, it is just a hobby that only talented players can indulge in.” And available to wealthy institutions.”
However, Wilson Sporting Goods officials disagree. Company co-owner Eric Koford says that a lot of time, effort and money has gone into developing this ball and that is why its price is still high. But in the future, as 3D printing technology becomes common, the price of such products will also reduce.
Despite its expensive price, the Airless Gen1 is a huge step forward in sports equipment technology. Its excellent lattice design and durability make it a good choice for players who want better performance and a ball that is durable even during rough play.
With the advancement of 3D printing technology, we will see more such innovative sports equipment in the future. As research and development on this technology continues, the price of such products will also reduce and they will become accessible to the common people. It is an attractive option at the moment, but it is only suitable for professional players and institutions that can invest in cutting-edge technology.
