Lately, we've been seeing a lot of innovative and functional materials coming our way, and we love it! With this short material guide, you'll know exactly what you're getting.
As sneaker enthusiasts, we naturally want to know all the ins and outs of every pair that comes our way. These days, brands keep innovating when it comes to designs, but the materials aren't lagging behind either. All those material terms might sound a bit complicated, so we're here to help you out with a little material guide where we break down various technical features.
Cordura
You might have seen the name Cordura pop up on our socials, but what are we actually talking about? Cordura is a strong, tear-resistant material that's often used for workwear, motorcycle gear, backpacks, and now sneakers too. Cordura is also pretty nice for this rainy time of year, thanks to its PU coating that gives the fabric a water-repellent function. Need another autumn-proof pair? Check out the Karhu Legacy 96 caviar abby stone and the New Balance 1906R outerspace black.
Ripstop
Ripstop is a weaving technique that makes textiles stronger and more tear-resistant. Thicker threads are woven through the thinner threads, ensuring that small tears are stopped by the thicker threads, preventing the tear from getting bigger. Ripstop is often recognizable by its checkered pattern. All in all, it's a pretty sturdy fabric. So if you've got some wild plans, a sneaker with ripstop is definitely not a bad idea. Check out the Mizuno MXR Tech or the Karhu Fusion XC whitecap grey, for example.
Vibram
If you ask about the pioneer when it comes to shoe soles, the answer is always Vibram. Vibram has been leading the way since 1937 when it comes to developments and production in the field of rubber soles. The fact that this sole was originally developed for mountain climbers pretty much says it all, but the Vibram sole offers excellent grip, flexibility, and comfort on various surfaces. So, if you see that yellow logo on a shoe, you know you're good to go. Or at least, that the shoe is good to go. We also see the Vibram sole returning in our collection. For example, you'll see it appear on the Mercer The Re-Run Vibram and Clae Salazar.
Hydroguard
Hydroguard is a waterproof PU membrane, or in simpler terms, a material that's applied to keep your feet nice and dry. Its waterproof quality is due to the many microscopic holes that are so small that even water droplets can't get through. These holes, however, are just big enough to let heat and moisture escape, so no risk of sweaty feet. Additionally, this material is also environmentally friendly, which sets it apart from other waterproof materials. Hydroguard is so unique that we've only seen it in one pair in our collection so far; the Karhu Fusion XC greige. So if you tend to suffer from wet feet, now you know where to go.
Bought sneakers without these technical features but still want to brave the autumn weather? You can! With the protector sprays from Crep, DFNS, Jason Markk, and Carbon, you give your sneakers a dirt and water-repellent layer so you don't have to worry about stains or wet feet. If you've worn them on a muddy forest walk or a night out anyway, we have plenty of cleaning products in our range that will breathe new life into your pair.