Timberland and BASF combine on work shoe project
Polyurethane (PU) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) from BASF are part of the latest innovation for industrial workers in the new Timberland PRO Reaxion safety shoe.
The range features proprietary technology that Timberland calls the Aerocore Energy System, saying it offers the comfort and flexibility of an athletic shoe with the performance and durability of a work boot.
Vice-president for product creation at the footwear brand, Bert Spiller, said on announcing the new range that combining the appeal of a favourite athletic shoe with energy-return functionality that would help workers keep going throughout the day would be “a new experience” for many wearers of work footwear.
Aerocore Energy comprises three layers: an anti-fatigue footbed, a foam midsole, and a non-marking outsole. These layers work together to provide energy return, comfort and grip. Timberland said the PRO Reaxion range would be ideal for indoor work such as warehousing and manufacturing, as well as outdoor jobs in construction and other fields.
Elastollan TPU from BASF features in the outsole because of its high levels of anti-abrasion and traction performance. At the same time, Elastopan high-rebound PU foam is used in the midsole and insole to offer all-day support and comfort.
BASF has said it was able to tailor the formulation of the PU at the molecular level to offer Timberland the performance levels it needed in the new Reaxion safety shoe range.
“This collaboration with Timberland shows how important chemistry and design are in driving the future of safety shoe performance,” said Mark Zhu, market segment manager for footwear, sports and leisure at BASF performance materials.
