PSFK: adidas' new shoe material

Introducing new Boost Technology at a global launch event yesterday, German sportswear giant, adidas hopes to put an extra spring in every runner’s step. The new material promises higher energy returns than anything currently on the market without compromising the comfort of cushioning.

Based on a groundbreaking development process created by adidas partner BASF, the world’s leading chemical company, solid granular material (TPU) is literally blown up and turned into thousands of small energy capsules which make up the footwear’s distinctive midsole. With their unique cell structure, these capsules store and unleash energy more efficiently in every stride.

But what does releasing more energy mean? Essentially, it boils down to bounce. Shoes containing the Boost material will be extra bouncy, hence, should bounce back from the road more quickly. But like the battery life promised on a computer, the company’s claims about the shoe may be stronger than its performance.

adidas will be using its new foam across all of its shoe lines, not just running shoes, although it is unclear when that will begin. Its Energy Boost running shoes will be commercially available on February 27th.

Source: PSFK