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

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.