Chemistry is ... Boots made for Hiking

Summer time is hiking time. Light mountaineering shoes provide hikers with comfortable lightweight equipment that lets them be quick, agile and safe. Sports specialist Salomon has chosen DSM’s EcoPaXX polyamide for the “Edging Chassis” of a new mountaineering shoe. The Edging Chassis is a special plate built into the sole with a sophisticated design that provides stability for the foot, but also allows enough flexibility to accommodate the natural flexing of the foot.

This requires a material with the right combination of appropriate mechanical properties and toughness and which can be processed easily. EcoPaXX has enabled Salomon to produce a chassis with an intricate design. Furthermore, it has flow characteristics needed for the design, together with mechanical properties and processes very well.