Gore highlights three footwear developments

06/06/2017
W.L. Gore & Associates has highlighted three developments for the footwear market that will be available from autumn 2017.

GORE-TEX Stretch technology is a patent-pending construction that combines both stretchable laminates and stretch textile linings, as well as elastic seams. 

It makes it possible to create shoes that are easy to put on and off thanks to a good elasticity at the instep and a smooth and elastic inner lining, said the company.

"By developing this new technology, we wanted to create technical footwear that is both comfortable, easy to use and suitable for everyday use," said Brian Gallagher, marketing manager for footwear. "Consumers told us that they want shoes that are high-performance, easy and fast to wear, but also comfortable on a daily basis. "

The company has also developed GORE Invisible Fit, a new type of construction for waterproof and breathable racing shoes, which allows shoe makers to incorporate a protective membrane into the running shoes in a “completely new way”. The membrane is designed to be laminated on a variety of athletic stems. “The result is a significant reduction in pressure points and perfectly fitting patterns on the front of the foot,” said Gore.

Finally, GORE-TEX SURROUND is the first technology to bring to waterproof footwear 360 degree breathability, claims Gore. Perspiration leaves through the material while moisture and heat also escape through channels under the foot. The channels form openings or vents that are visible on the sides of the soleplate. The technology has been added to two already commercialized constructions designed to increase breathability: one with a perforated sole and the other with side vents on the upper.