ISPO Award Winner 2024: Rip Curl X Variloom Mirage3DP Boardshort

Developed in collaboration with Rip Curl, Moon Creative Lab and Bilio, the Mirage3DP Boardshort challenges traditional surfwear construction by showcasing cutting-edge VariloomTM filament and 3D printing technology for enhanced fit and functionality. 

• 3D Printed Engineered Waistband: Redesigned for unmatched comfort and stability in the water, the waistband incorporates moisture-wicking pads and compression control arms to minimize movement and ensure a secure fit during intense surf sessions. 
• 3D Printed Control Panels: Integrated side and inner grip panels provide superior ventilation, control, and draping, solving problems like clinging and riding up that are often associated with lightweight stretch fabrics. 
• Variloom Filament & 3D Printing Technology: A bio-based TPU and wool blend provides conformable softness, stretch, and quick drying properties tailored for extreme surf conditions. 

These advanced materials have undergone rigorous testing, with some prototypes surviving over 300 hours in the surf, ensuring optimal performance in salt, sun, and waves. 

The Mirage3DP Boardshort exemplifies Rip Curl's and Variloom’s commitment to sustainability through innovative manufacturing and material choices. 

• Eco-friendly 3D printing: Additive manufacturing reduces waste by printing only what is needed, while bio-based TPU and recycled polyester components ensure minimal environmental impact. 
• Circular design: Incorporating wool by-products and recyclable materials, these shorts are designed to be recycled at the end of their life, in line with Rip Curl's vision for full product circularity. 
• Responsible production: The shorts are produced under strict chemical management programs and sustainable packaging practices, with FSC-certified recycling tags and a QR code for user education. 

The long term vision of the collaboration is to work closely together to explore, test and validate the world of additive technology through a series of product releases, ultimately leading to on-demand, bespoke and 100% 3D printed products made from sustainable materials. 

Variloom’s system offers on-demand, on-site, print-to-shape 3D fabrication that exponentially reduces production waste, lead times, product inventory, and dependence on offshore manufacturing by bringing customizable production closer to the consumer. By considering end-of-life in the material and design processes, products can be easily returned to the circular system for recycling further reducing waste and dependence on new materials and resources. 

The Mirage3DP Boardshort is not just a product - it is a bold step into the future of surfwear. "As the ultimate surfing company, we're constantly looking for new materials, design details and manufacturing methods to drive innovation for surfers in both product performance and circularity," said Milan Thompson, Global Head of Product Innovation and Sustainability at Rip Curl. By integrating 3D technology, sustainable practices and unparalleled functionality, Rip Curl is redefining what's possible in surf performance. Designed for surfers who care as much about performance as they do about the planet, these shorts are built to ride the waves-and protect them. 

• Bilio fully redesigned the multilayer waistband to improve in-water stability and comfort with 3D control side panels for improved fit, drape and ventilation 
• Moon Creative Lab’s Variloom 3DP filament and print system balances softness, stretch and adaptable performance utilizing bio-based TPU with wool. 
• New opportunities in manufacturing, customization and product circularity.