Three-dimensional printed lattice structures for next generation of wearable technology

Lattice structures, best known for their high strength-to-weight ratio, flexibility, and tunable mechanical properties, have garnered increasingly more attention across various industries that require advanced performance and material efficiency for their products. The advent of three-dimensional (3D) printing technologies has further expanded design possibilities and manufacturing accuracy of such structures, thus enabling the fabrication of products with complex geometries that are difficult or not possible to achieve through traditional production methods. In the textile and apparel industries, the integration of 3D-printed lattice structures offers unprecedented opportunities to create lightweight, adaptive, and highly customizable wearable devices. These innovations have paved the way for emerging applications that range from sportswear and protective gear to smart textiles and personalized healthcare solutions. This review examines the key 3D printing technologies and materials commonly employed in lattice fabrication, which highlight their role in producing wearable lattice textiles across different performance scales. The study further categorizes 3D-printed lattice geometries based on how they address specific requirements in textile applications, such as breathability, energy absorption, and wear comfort. Additionally, the review discusses current challenges, including material limitations, structural design complexities, and scalability issues, while proposing future directions for research and development. This review paper serves as a comprehensive resource for researchers, engineers, and designers who wish to leverage 3D-printed lattice structures for the next generation of functional textiles and apparel.