Merrell says new winter range is one of its most technical ever
23/08/2012
Its main components are weather-proof winter boots for men and winter sports footwear for women.
Men’s boots include the Norsehund Alpha Waterproof and the Norsehund Omega Mid Waterproof. Both incorporate new proprietary technology called the ColdSmar Warmth System, designed to regulate temperature. The Alpha is a tall winter boot with a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) shell on the upper for durability and protection. The Omega combines a full grain leather upper with the brand’s Opti-warm synthetic insulation.
Merrell’s ColdSmart system uses high-surface lugs (seven millimetres in depth) that the footwear brand says will work like a wolf’s paw for traction, while a moulded TPU shank gives added support. The perimeter lugs on the Norsehund Omega Mid Waterproof are designed to grip ice and wet surfaces while the positioning of the inner lugs give added traction and prevent a build-up of snow on the outsole.
Products in the women’s winter sport range include the Whiteout 8 Waterproof and the Snowbound Mid Waterproof mid-height boots. The former has a mix of full grain leather and fabric in the upper with a waterproof membrane underneath to provide a breathable barrier to moisture from the outside. It has Opti-warm synthetic insulation and a ColdProof Ortholite footbed for insulation. Traction comes from the six-millimetre sole lugs while the midsole has a silver reflective film for added warmth in another proprietary system, ActiveHeat Insole . It also has a compression moulded EVA footframe and air cushion in the heel to absorb shock and add stability.
At the front, the Snowbound Mid Waterproof has a TPU shell for added protection while the upper has a strobe construction to offer flexibility and comfort. The synthetic lining material in this model is thinner to reduce the boot’s overall weight.
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