THE SPEED OF LIGHTNESS
Not just for running and jumping
It seems the push for lighter shoes is even expanding into
the outdoor and trekking market, as outdoor footwear brand
Timberland has now launched its own ultra-light multi-
sport boot for men. Weighing 354 grams, the Timberland
Mountain Athletics LiteTrace Mid isn’t quite as light as a
lightweight running shoe, but the brand claims it offers the
“stability, traction, durability and waterproof protection of a
hiking boot with the lightness of a sneaker”.
“Our lightest design yet, the LiteTrace boot strikes a
perfect balance between minimal and durable,” said
Brian Moore, vice president of men’s footwear for
Timberland. “Men no longer need to compromise;
they can now get the protection, stability and
waterproofing they need, in an extremely lightweight
multi-sport shoe.”
The LiteTrace boot’s single-layer waterproof upper
uses no-sew construction and minimal seam sealing
for lightweight, breathable performance. By
eliminating layers, the membrane is closer to the foot
and the outside of the shoe, creating a breathable
waterproof shell, according to Timberland. A Pebax
foam heel insert further reduces weight in the shoe.
Timberland is the first brand to use Pebax foam, and
claims it is 20% lighter than EVA. The boot also
features Green Rubber outsoles, made with 42%
recycled rubber for traction and durability on the trails.
With more and more brands joining in the huge success
of lightweight footwear, and the impressive sales figures to
back it up, it seems a ‘less is more’ approach to footwear
design is the direction shoes are heading in – and
consumers seem only too happy to follow.
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Timberland’s Mountain Athletics LiteTrace
Mid waterproof hiker boot.
CREDIT: TIMBERLAND