Sports equipment manufacturer Wilson Sporting Goods developed a 3D printed airless basketball.

Called Airless Gen1, the ball consists of a 3D printed polymer lattice structure, rather than inflation. The basketball nearly fits the performance specifications of a regulation basketball, including its weight, size and rebound (bounce). The form of the ball features eight panel-like lobes and a familiar seam structure, with hexagonal holes across the surface allowing air to pass through freely.

Each Airless Gen1 comes with a case, stand, and three letter customisable tag. The ball is available in three colours, though only a limited amount will be produced. Each ball is inscribed with its number. The balls also do not come cheap, as each one costs $2,500.

Photos: Wilson