Inov-8: Graphene gives 25% more energy return in foam
25/03/2021
The graphene-enhanced foam in Inov-8’s latest trail shoe offers 25% more energy return than "EVA foam commonly used in running shoes", and longer lasting performance, according to the UK brand.
At a press launch, more details were given on the multi-year collaboration with the University of Manchester’s National Graphene Institute, which helped develop the foam in the Trailfly Ultra G 300 Max.
Inov-8 was the first footwear company to create outsoles boosted by graphene in 2018, and the foam application followed when collaborator and footwear specialist Doug Sheridan wondered what the ‘wonder material’ could add elsewhere in the shoe.
Graphene is the thinnest and strongest material by weight, offering strength that is 200 times that of steel, at only one atom thick. It was ‘characterised’ by researchers at the University of Manchester in 2004 and has since found applications in numerous sectors, including textiles.
Inov-8 chief operating officer Michael Price said: “In an industry where running shoe manufacturers seem hung up on underfoot carbon plates, we’ve delivered an innovative proposition. G-Fly cushioned foam not only gives runners incredible long lasting energy return but also an underfoot feel free of rigidity and full of agility.”
For a closer look at the development, see the next edition of WSA magazine.
Image: Athletes Alison Walker and Paul Tierney put the shoes to the test. Credit: Inov-8
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