Inside Outdoor Fall 2017

Adidas introduced what it calls an inno- vative stitching technology that efficiently provides precise fit and support in per- formance footwear. Forgefiber, a process using TPU-coated yarn, maximizes the ability to provide targeted zones of stretch and lockout when stitched and heat com- pressed resulting in 30 percent more resis- tance using less thread, said the company. “Every sport is about movement and every athlete is unique,” said Jon Munns, senior design director on the Adidas Future team. “They all have different needs, and when we are designing products for them, we are trying to create the very best for them to support their movement.” The first iteration of Forgefiber tech- nology is available in a limited edition Alphabounce with a visual aesthetic driven by the creation process. The strength of the structure is driven by a randomization in the stitch structure. The outcome is a stronger, more flexible fabric upper that behaves differently for each type of sport, says Adidas. The density and angles of the stitching can be changed to create higher levels of support, multidirectional benefits like lockout and conformity, and fine-tun- ing based on the size of the athlete. “Running is more about linear move- ment,” said Jason McGinnity, a designer on the Adidas Future team. “The super flexible and strong Forgefiber upper for a runner will provide enhanced lockdown and stabil- ity in the midsole for a smooth gait cycle. For basketball we want to be much more prescriptive in certain areas of the shoe, like on the lateral for heavy cutting.” McGinnity continues, “The adaptable design process can easily address differ- ent performance needs while still allowing breathability and comfort. As we look to- ward the future, possibilities of where we can take this are unlimited.” A new running shoe Brooks is the first product to feature a new midsole made using a polyurethane-based cushion- ing technology from chemicals manufacturer BASF. The shoe, which Brooks has called Levitate, incorporates the DNA AMP mid- sole, which features a new blend of BASF’s Elastopan Sports Light PU system. Brooks has said the midsole offers enhanced comfort and durability, as well as providing the wearer with 72 percent en- ergy return from each stride. The cushioning material is designed to expand under the runner’s foot as it hits the ground, returning more energy as force is applied. “Through our partnership to develop the all-new Levitate, BASF used its performance materials expertise to create a polyurethane midsole that is tailor-made for Brooks,” said Chau Nguyen, footwear market man- ager for BASF in North America. “We are seeing two key trends within the athletic shoe market: consumer demand for light- weight, comfortable and durable shoes and increased focus on au- tomating the footwear production process,” he added. “The result is renewed interest in and use of high-performance polyurethane for athletic shoes.” Adidas Unveils ‘Forgefiber’ Stitching Technology BASF Creates Midsole for Brooks Running Shoe STEALTH PACK Available in North America at eartheasydistribution.com Designed in Australia for maximum function and style, the Stealth Pack has you covered for all conditions and adventures. FALL 2017 | Inside Outdoor 35