New Boot Sole Technology Turns Winter Walks From Slip To Grip
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Wintry weather could leave you ice skating without even going to the rink. But a company behind new shoe sole technology claims to have a no-slip solution -- with no metal studs required.
"You don't have to do anything different -- put it on your feet and walk as you normally would," says Christopher Favreau, vice president for innovation at Vibram.
Arctic Grip is designed to keep you on your feet. Vibram, the company behind those 'FiveFingers' running shoes that look like toe socks, has developed this rubber compound for boot soles.
"The physics of what's actually taking place as the rubber hits the ice -- it's a melting and a refreezing action that happens in a split second," Favreau says.
That gives you better traction on wet ice. Vibram combines it with a compound that helps on dry ice.
"You can instantly feel the difference," Favreau says.
You'll know Arctic Grip is ready for action once its 'thermochromatic lug' turns from white to blue, as temperatures hit the freezing mark. But you'll really know it's doing its job once you hit a slick spot.
"'Wow, that's remarkable.' It's that kind of a feeling that you get when you put it on your foot and you walk on wet ice," Favreau says.
The tech is in winter sport boots from Wolverine brands like Merrell, Sperry, and Hush Puppies -- even running shoes from Saucony.
