New Balance chooses Gore-Tex for ‘barefoot-friendly’ shoe

19/03/2013
US sportswear brand New Balance has chosen Gore-Tex fabric to add breathability to three styles of trail running shoe to be launched in the autumn.

The Minimus 10 Trail GTX and the Minimus 80 Multisport GTX have what the company describes as “barefoot-friendly interiors, an anatomically correct NL-1 natural last with a signature forefoot shape and 4mm off-set from heel to forefoot”. This is designed to encourage more of a forefoot or mid-foot strike while the 80 Multisport GTX is an all-purpose shoe with cushioning underfoot and overall protection.

The 910 Trail GTX offers trail runners stability and cushioning using a new trail-specific fit. It has an 8mm off-set from heel to forefoot combined with REVlite cushioning.

All three styles incorporate Gore-Tex Extended Comfort technology, which offers breathability to ensure the footwear is ideal for highly aerobic activities.

“We are always looking for ways to design innovative product that will benefit the runner and meet their every performance need,” said Bryan Gothie, senior product manager at New Balance. “By adding Gore-Tex to these lightweight styles, we are able to diversify our outdoor offerings and further improve the consumer’s experience.”