A repeating inverted cube shape adopted by sporting-goods manufacturers, beginning with , which used the pattern on the sole of its iconic waffle trainer. (See Bowerman, Bill) The shape was originally intended to replace common track spikes with a more efficient sole, but runners found that the springiness lent itself to all manner of terrain. In 2000, created a 鈥渟ymmetrical grid pattern鈥 (the company calls it ) that鈥檚 fast-wicking, breathable, and lightweight. The material is now used by , the , and .
(Photo: Tim Tomkinson)
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