While it looks like the classic Air Jordan 1 basketball shoe, this is actually a Christmas stocking that is waiting to be stuffed on the big day. These hand-sewn stocking is made of felt material and while not big enough to hold an actual pair of Jordans, the Air 1 Christmas Stocking might help Santa know what the basketball fan really wants to see under the tree.
Category: Footwear
Smart Shoes Ready to Run
There are smartphones and smart watches, but now developers at the Institute for Photonic Microsystems (IPMS) are looking to create smarter shoes. The “EU Project RUNSAFER” concept utilizes specialized running shoe packed with a micro-controller, a radio frequency (RF) module, accelerometers, GPS sensors and a battery.
The system is designed to capture biomechanical signals from the body and transmits them via Bluetooth to the a runner’s smartphone, which then evaluates the data and offers feedback to the runner on how they can improve performance.
“Pulse-rate watches and chest straps record only vital signs like breathing and heart rat,” said Dr. Andreas Heinig, a scientist at IPMS. “In contrast, our running shoe medically evaluates and moni- tors training while jogging. It informs the runner for example of incorrect foot position, asym- metric loading, or warns of exhaustion or overload. There has never been a comparable device before.”
A prototype of the running shoe has already been developed, as has a mobile smartphone app. The researchers are now working on a smaller version of the microelectronics and sensors, which remains the bigger challenge, particularly since the system must be waterproof, light, and durable.
[Press Release: High-tech athletic shoe for pure running pleasure]
Design Tiger’s 2014 Shoes
Nike Over the Moon Again
Nike recently announced the Air Max Lunar90, a new lightweight shoe for next year, which offer Lunarlon technology that will practically put spring in the step. This is an update to the classic Air Max 90, and it promises to move better wherever your feet might take you. The shoes will be ready to step out next spring.
Newton Looks to Pop
Minimalist running shoe maker Newton has proved that you can always add more without actually adding too much. This is true with the company’s line of 2014 running shoes. The company promises “more pop than ever,” and this includes the new +ONE lug platform, which adds a fifth lug to provide more cushioning, greater responsiveness and a broader, more stable base for the runner.
The company’s entire line of 2014 shoes will be ready to hit the road or trail in February.
[Press Release: Newton Running 2014 Speed and Mileage Trainers Offer More Pop Than Ever]
Nike Ready for Launch and Landing
Nike has introduced a new snowboard boot that will light the sky like a full moon. The Nike LunarENDOR QS features LED lights that are powered by an embedded lithium ion battery. Beyond the novelty of lighting up the books promise to provide a softer and more responsive ride on the slopes, while the 3-D molded upper and a Nike Flywire inner lacing system further enhance fit and provide comfort that will have you practically over the moon. Continue reading Nike Ready for Launch and Landing
No Flimsy Snowshoe Here
The Fimbulvetr might not look like a snowshoe but the thermoplastic elastomer body is what will have you walking on the white stuff in the 21st century. So long to the old wicker and wood shoes and hello Fimbulvetr. Developed in Norway these are meant to be light, comfortable and most importantly easy to walk in.
These feature and asymmetrical shape that is designed to mimic the foot, while the punched honeycomb pattern is there to maintain torsional strength and floatation, all of which is good for helping to trek through the snow. Video after the jump
Nike Embellishment
Nike has always been a company that has seen fit to add some embellishment to shoes in the name of style, but the new Nike Golf line of women’s shoes actually combines the four-shoes-in-one concept that promises an updated, modernized design that is lighter and gives golfers more control at impact.
The Nike Lunar Embellish golf shoe, which is available starting today, is significantly lighter than the previous model. It weighs in at just 8.6 ounces thanks to the incorporation of lighter materials and a slimmer, more refined design that keeps athletes comfortable and reduces fatigue. This in turn allows them to forget about their feet and focus on their round.
The shoes feature Lunarlon Technology that provides responsive cushioning in the heel and works in conjunction with Integrated Traction on the outsole to provide control at impact. For style the shoes also feature two reversible saddles – four colors in total – which allow female golfers to match their shoes to their outfits, bags and more on any given day.
Lunar Arrival
Minimal Acceleration
Swedish shoemaker Icebug is looking to give minimalist runners some serious traction for the trails. The company is in maximum gear with the Acceleritas3, a shoe that strips away everything except what is needed for stable footing in any terrain.
Designed to feel like a pair of socks, this natural shoe provides thermal and impact protection and yes a lot of traction. The outsole offers a special pattern that is optimized to grip on hard as well as wet surfaces. The shoes won’t absorb water and thus won’t get heavier even in wet and watery conditions. Instead they’ll feel light on the feet while offering serious grip in almost any terrain.
Fast on the Trail
When you’re on the hiking trail sometimes a sure foot is better than being quick, but the Adidas Outdoor Terrex Fast R GTX is for those who don’t think a hike should be a stroll in the park. This lightweight, athletic-inspired hiker is designed for the fast-paced trekker.
It features a breathable mesh upper with supportive synthetic overlays, speed lacing that allows for quick-and-easy adjustments and a molded tongue for added comfort. The FORMOTION midsole provides motion control and downhill comfort, while the Continental rubber TRAXION outsole will provide reliable grip on the trial regardless of the terrain.
New Balance Runs the NYC Marathon
This Sunday will see the annual running of the ING New York City Marathon and New Balance is putting its best foot forward so to speak with special NYC-themed version of the 890v4 and 990v3. If you can’t make it to the Big Apple to get a pair you can try to dash online. But act quick, these are likely to sell out. Video after the jump
Boots and Stuff
While the barefoot experience has been a hit with runners, the Lems Mens Boulder Boots are there to offer the barefoot experience on the hiking trail. These lightweight boots feature water-resistant nylon uppers, and full-grain leather to help keep way moisture and protect the feet while feeling food at the same time. And at the end of the hike these boots practically roll up for easy storage.