With the Attrakt Fusion Carbon 3D, Reusch is launching a new goalkeeper glove on the market that integrates a 3D-printed punch zone for the first time. The glove was developed in collaboration with the US company Carbon, which specializes in high-performance additive manufacturing. At the heart of the glove is a backhand component that was produced using Carbon’s Digital Light Synthesis (DLS) – a process that uses photochemically curing resins to create smooth, functional components without visible layers.
This limited-edition glove sets new standards in goalkeeper equipment, as Christian Hilber, Product Manager at Reusch Goalkeeping, explains: “The heart of the glove is clearly the 3D-printed punching zone. The high-tech mesh structure not only looks futuristic, but is also highly elastic, tear-resistant and energy-absorbing. The clear advantage over conventional rubber or latex applications lies in the three-dimensional grid structure, which offers unparalleled rebound and energy return while being very light and extremely flexible.’ The Attrakt Fusion Carbon 3D is therefore the perfect solution for the demands of modern goalkeeping.”
In contrast to conventional casting or injection molding processes, DLS technology enables the production of complex lattice structures that are specifically designed for mechanical properties such as elasticity, damping and energy return.
“What I think was most challenging during the development,” says Jiaqi Ren, Application Development Engineer at Carbon, “was working with our assembly partner to convert the injection-molded component to a 3D-printed one. Within a limited thickness, we used Carbon Design Engine to provide multiple lattice (structural grid) combinations to fine-tune performance. This punch zone component needs to endure continuous flexing throughout the game, so we conducted extensive tests on bonding strength to ensure it meets professional standards.”
The development required close coordination between design and manufacturing. Using the Carbon Design Engine tool, a variety of lattice configurations were simulated and tested to achieve an optimal balance between flexibility and stability.
“Engineered for peak performance, we combined the 3D-printed backhand application with exclusive Reusch technologies like the AdaptiveFlex Closure and Fusion Grip Latex,” adds Christian Hilber. “All this is wrapped in a futuristic design, delivering both cutting-edge functionality and standout style.”
“The backhand panel has traditionally been made with drop plastic latex for decades,” adds Jiaqi Ren. “3D-printed lattice (structural grid) gave the glove a completely new design language — without sacrificing performance. It offers improved energy damping to help protect the back of the hand, and I believe we’ve only scratched the surface of what this technology can bring to goalkeeper gloves.”
In addition to the printed punch zone, the glove integrates Reusch’s own technologies such as Fusion Grip Latex for improved grip in wet and dry conditions and the AdaptiveFlex closure solution for a combination of stability and mobility in the wrist. The market launch of the model is scheduled for April 30, 2025.
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