Footwear innovations to be showcased at 10th Munich golf fair
So says Golf Europe 2002, the 10th international trade fair for golf which will be held Monday September 30 to Wednesday October 2 2002 on the grounds of the Munich Trade Fair.
Innovations promised for the event include carbon frames that strengthen light graphite soles (thereby improving stability), a ‘200% breathable’ foot ventilation system, plus ‘energy return gel’ for a springier step. Other ideas to make walking easier on the feet will include silicon capsules in the forefoot and air chambers in the ankles.
For easier unrolling of the foot, outer soles will be manufactured in various densities, sometimes improved by flexion channels in the forefoot. Developments to reduce the weight of the shoe will also be shown: one of the exhibits will weigh only 330 grams in a size 42.5 (US size 9), instead of the usual 490 grams.
With the advent of retro fashion, leather sole material is being rediscovered. The material, which holds its own in the high end of the market, is being resurrected for classical men’s wing-tip models.
Another new trend highlighted will be the soft-footed trainer. Though produced with functionality in mind, this will also make a sporty, aesthetic statement.
Slip-on models that translate leather, stretch textiles and functional soles into supple, form fitting golf slippers will all be present. New ladies’ slip-ons, featuring a multifunctional sole with integrated long-wearing nob soles and rubber grips, will be shown in colour schemes such as candy/light blue or chocolate/rose in soft nubuck leathers.
