Leather and footwear testing firm SATRA has developed a test to replicate the effect that abrasive substances such as sand, silt and mud have on footwear in water.

The machine, which tests footwear for immersive flexing, also incorporates an abrasive aluminium oxide grit. A 'baffle bed' is used to diffuse air around the tank, which stops the grit from settling at the bottom.

Up until now, SATRA has been able to test for abrasion to individual components, but the new method allows manufacturers to see how their footwear will perform in extreme situations.

Potential applications include the testing of footwear for kayaking, off-road running and military exercises.

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