Footwear Technology: How Do Your Boots Compare?
With the technology revolution in full swing, companies are constantly patenting and updating ways to make things work better and more efficiently, especially when it comes to footwear. Check the glossary of boot technology terms below to see how your boots measure up.
Aegis - This environmentally friendly microbe shield prevents odor by controlling bacteria and fungus growth. It bonds to the surface and stops unsightly stains and product deterioration.
Gore-Tex - Perhaps one of the most talked-about breathable waterproofing materials, it's seen on many boots (combat, hiking, etc.) as well as outerwear and gloves. Most all the major boot brands use Gore-Tex.
YKK® Zipper - Considered the gold standard for zippers, YKK is featured on some boots like Belleville's Men's Hot Weather Tactical Side Zip Boots and Wellco's Tactical Side Zip Safety Boot.
True-Flex Technology - Gives optimal flex where you want it by providing dual anatomical formed PE and PPE lasting board with an integrated composite shank as seen on some Smith and Wesson boots.
SBR Bioform Tongue - Another technology used on many Smith and Wesson boots, this material made out of rubber controls how the tongue sits on your foot, allowing for absolute comfort.
Vibram - A material often seen on hiking boots, Vibram has spent seven decades perfecting its rubber soles . Its patented FiveFinger system builds strength, range of motion and enhances proprioception.
SympaTex - Another type of waterproof fabric that is deemed breathable. SymapaTex is a membrane that is laminated to the inner surface of fabric or placed in between two fabric layers.
Dri-Lex - A climate-control fabric that is extremely quick drying, breathable and, like Aegis, resists odor and mildew.
Cordura - Mostly seen on luggage, backpacks and boots, this ultra light-weight fabric is three times more durable than standard polyester.
(Images via Wikimedia Commons)
On the Dry Side: Ion-Mask Waterproofing
Magnum 5298 with Ion-Mask Waterproofing
Introduced early this year, Magnum’s ion-mask waterproofing technology is continuing to repel just about anything.
Ion-mask is a patented liquid repellent developed by P2i, a United Kingdom technology company. The plasma-based material permanently alters the surface of a product at a molecular level. This keeps out not only water, but the kind of stuff you definitely don’t your boot to absorb—harsh chemicals, blood pathogens and other bodily fluids.
While the layer of waterproofing is said to be only molecules thick, its strength is apparent in this demonstration video. When liquid smacks the surface, it instantaneously beads up with an appearance similar to mercury.
Magnum was the first to bring this technology to tactical footwear. Because of its extensive waterproofing, the boot will remain the same weight in wet or dry conditions. Ion-mask also keeps boots looking tidy for longer and is more environmentally friendly than dip applications.
If you’re interested in learning more about how P2i applies this technology to Magnum military boots and other products, watch a video that explains it all. In addition to footwear and accessories, P2i uses a product similar to ion-mask called Aridion on consumer electronics.