Nike uses ion-mask Lunar Wood TZ
16/12/2009
Nike has incorporated ion-mask liquid repelling technology into its Lunar Wood TZ running shoes. Available at retail from December 19, the sports brand said the new lightweight and comfortable running shoe would keep wearers dry even in the wettest of winter conditions.
P2i, the UK-based company behind ion-mask, applies a nanoscopic protective polymer layer to the whole shoe, on which water forms beads and simply rolls off, instead of being absorbed. Because ion-mask gives the whole shoe (including the stitching) a high level of water repellency, it stops external water getting in and encourages evaporated perspiration to flow out. As a result, shoes dry out more quickly, won’t get heavier over time, and maintain the natural airflow of their construction material.
Users can’t see or feel the ion-mask protection because it is one thousand times thinner than a human hair. However, because the protective layer is molecularly bonded to the whole shoe surface it is extremely durable. In practice, the technology lasts as long as the shoe material itself and is not compromised by everyday flexing during wear. Plus, by resisting the absorption of water, it helps guard against stains and dirt residue.
P2i also argues that ion-mask is a "climate-friendly choice" because its application process is solvent-free, PFOA-free, uses only tiny quantities of protective agent, does not require lots of energy and generates minimal waste.
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