Reebok creates new space boot for astronauts

20/07/2017
Reebok creates new space boot for astronauts
Sports brand Reebok has teamed up with David Clark Company, a long-time partner of NASA, to design a new space boot that is expected to be worn by astronauts on future missions to the International Space Station (ISS).

Reebok has described the boot, which it has called the Reebok Floatride Space Boot SB-01, as “the first evolution in space footwear in over 50 years”. 

“Weight is a huge factor in space travel with just a single pound having big financial implications,” explained Matt Montross, part of Reebok Innovation.

He said the company had focused on significantly reducing the overall weight of the shoe as well as adding comfort and support similar levels to those found in a running shoe. 

Reebok incorporated its Floatride Foam technology into the design of the boot. This foam, which was launched in April, has a structure that the company has said provides “an optimal mix of softness of and responsiveness”. 

The company is also developing a new lightweight running shoe inspired by its work on the Floatride Space Boot. The product, which it calls the Floatride 100g Racer (a men’s size 9 weighs 100g), features a midsole weighing under an ounce, a single layer mesh upper and a weight-optimised coverage outsole. It is currently undergoing testing and will launch in 2018.

Images courtesy of Reebok.