Work

Biomechanical exploration of cushioning and stability in auxetic lattice midsoles during jump landing

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: High-impact forces during jump landing pose a risk for lower limb injuries, highlighting the importance of shoe midsole cushioning, where the effectiveness of midsole hardness remains controversial. This study evaluated the biomechanical performance of three-dimensional auxetic lattice structure midsoles during jump landing, examining their cushioning mechanisms and stability. Four midsoles were tested: two auxetic lattices (A60 and A75), a non-auxetic structure (N90), and a traditional polyurethane (PU) midsole, using plantar pressure measurements (Pedar‑X system) and finite element simulations. Results showed that auxetic midsoles significantly improved overall performance, reducing peak plantar pressure and impact loading rate compared to non-auxetic designs. Specifically, A60 provided optimal forefoot pressure reduction, while A75 offered superior stability, with both enhancing pressure distribution uniformity through increased foot-shoe contact area. These findings demonstrate that auxetic lattice structures enhance jump landing cushioning in healthy young males. The angle-dependent performance trade-offs-forefoot pressure reduction for A60 and enhanced stability for A75-offer initial evidence for zoned midsole design concepts, warranting further sport-specific validation.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-62549-5

Authors: Jifa Zhang, Runhua Huang, Yibing Chen, Yangbo He, Qi Wu, Yadie Yang

Institutions: Guangdong University of Technology, Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Language: English

Topic: Cellular and Composite Structures

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690

Funders: Guangdong University of Technology, Guangdong Office of Philosophy and Social Science