Most of my friends in the Indian footwear industry will agree with my statement that to grow the brand, increase profitability and have the IDEAL payment cycle, the only way that exists is “Product Innovation”.
Let us understand what our counterparts across the globe are doing for the purpose.
Here are some of the latest advancements in the footwear industry globally:
1. Carbon Fibre Plates: Carbon fibre plates are being incorporated into the midsoles of running shoes to provide increased energy return and propulsion. These plates are designed to enhance running efficiency by reducing the energy lost during each stride, resulting in improved performance and reduced fatigue.
2. New and better technologies in the Knit Uppers: Knitted uppers have gained popularity in sports footwear due to their lightweight, breathable, and flexible nature. Brands are using advanced knitting techniques to create uppers that provide a customized fit, support, and ventilation, while also reducing waste during the manufacturing process. The latest machines are capable of making a hybrid variety of Knitted uppers that are as flexible and as rigid in the required areas.
3. Adaptive Lacing Systems: Adaptive lacing systems, such as Nike’s FlyEase and Puma’s AutoDisc, utilize innovative mechanisms to provide convenient and customizable fit adjustments. These systems allow users to easily tighten or loosen their shoes without the need for traditional laces, offering enhanced comfort and ease of use.
4. Using 3D Printing Technology: 3D printing technology has enabled the production of intricate and customized shoe components. Many brands are starting to utilize 3D printing to create midsoles with personalized cushioning and support, as well as to produce lightweight and durable outsole components with complex geometries that optimize traction and performance.
5. Smart Footwear: Smart technologies are being integrated into sports footwear to enhance performance and provide real-time data. Sensors, accelerometers, and pressure sensors embedded in the shoes collect information on metrics like distance, speed, cadence, and foot strike patterns. This data can be synced with mobile apps or fitness trackers to analyse and track performance, allowing users to monitor their progress and make adjustments to their training.
6. Energy Return and Cushioning Technologies: Brands are developing innovative cushioning materials and technologies to provide enhanced energy return, impact absorption, and comfort. Examples include Adidas’ Boost technology, which utilizes expanded TPU capsules to store and release energy, and Nike’s React foam, which offers lightweight cushioning and responsiveness.
7. Waterproof and Weatherproof Technologies: Sports footwear brands are integrating advanced waterproof and weatherproof technologies to protect athletes and outdoor enthusiasts in adverse conditions. These technologies, such as Gore-Tex and DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatments, provide waterproofing, breathability, and protection against the elements.
8. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Try-On: We all understand that E-commerce is the future of retail sales. Now some Brands are leveraging AR and virtual try-on technologies to enhance the online shopping experience. Customers can virtually try on shoes, visualize different colour options, and assess the fit and style before making a purchase, improving convenience, reducing the need for physical try-ons and reducing purchase returns.
9. Using Sustainable Materials: Sustainability has become a key focus in the sports footwear industry. Manufacturers are incorporating recycled and eco-friendly materials, such as recycled plastics, ocean waste, and bio-based materials, to reduce environmental impact. Additionally, brands are implementing circular design principles to create shoes that are easily recyclable or made from recycled materials.
Here are some examples of sustainable and eco-friendly materials that are being used or have the potential to be used in sports footwear manufacturing:
- Recycled Polyester: Recycled polyester, also known as RPET, is made from post-consumer plastic bottles. It can be used to create upper materials, linings, and laces for sports footwear. By utilizing recycled polyester, manufacturers can reduce their reliance on virgin polyester and contribute to the reduction of plastic waste.
- Organic Cotton: Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. It is a sustainable alternative to conventional cotton and can be used in the production of linings, insoles, and laces for sports footwear. Organic cotton cultivation promotes biodiversity and reduces water consumption and chemical pollution.
- Recycled Rubber: Recycled rubber is derived from post-consumer or post-industrial rubber waste, such as old tires. It can be used for outsoles and midsoles of sports footwear, offering durability and traction. Utilizing recycled rubber reduces the demand for virgin rubber and helps in waste reduction.
- Bio-based Materials: Bio-based materials are derived from renewable sources such as plants, algae, or fungi. For example, bio-based foams made from plant oils or algae can be used for cushioning in sports footwear. These materials have a lower environmental impact compared to petroleum-based foam
- Cork: Cork is a renewable and biodegradable material derived from the bark of cork oak trees. It is lightweight, cushioning, and has natural antimicrobial properties, making it suitable for insoles and footbeds of sports footwear. Harvesting cork does not harm the trees, as only the bark is harvested.
- Piñatex (Vegan Leather): Piñatex is a sustainable and cruelty-free alternative to leather, made from pineapple leaf fibres. It can be used for creating uppers and accents in sports footwear. Piñatex provides a similar texture and appearance to leather but without the environmental impact associated with animal agriculture.
- Recycled Nylon: Recycled nylon, also known as ECONYL®, is made from pre- and post-consumer nylon waste such as discarded fishing nets and carpets. It can be used for various components of sports footwear, including uppers and reinforcements. By utilizing recycled nylon, manufacturers can reduce the demand for virgin nylon and contribute to waste reduction.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is a new, fast-growing and renewable resource that can be used for various parts of sports footwear, such as insoles and sock liners. It offers natural antimicrobial properties, moisture-wicking abilities, and breathability.
These are just a few examples of the latest innovations in the footwear segment globally. The industry continues to push boundaries with advancements in materials, technologies, and design concepts to meet the demands of athletes and consumers seeking performance, comfort, and style in their footwear.
To know more and to have a deeper understanding of the materials and technologies, Please Reply “ I Want to Know More” or Press the link below:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdrsWZyJ9o0eb4BdL0-Jy8-JQ6z9DXEtm17Kxk7SO3KusKyIQ/viewform
We will fix up a mutually convenient time to meet you over a cup of tea to discuss the developments in detail.
