Solid Gear Cataogue 2022 2.0 1
ETPU ETPU — expanded thermoplastic polyurethane —
is an exceptional material for safety footwear applications. In some professions to work is to move, to be on your feet, hour after hour. Being able to focus and deliver on the job requires energy. Midsoles made with ETPU provide high-performance shock absorption, maintain better cushioning power over time relative to standard EVA, and deliver unparalleled spring back from every step. The ETPU springback is the result of the transformation through heating of very tiny TPU pellets. These micro-particles, after undergoing heat and high pressure, puff up, expanding into little beans, each with an air pocket core. The particle-based foams that result can then be molded to the perfect shape through injection tooling, molding machinery and a steaming process. ETPU midsoles have unique and beneficial properties. Low density, well-cushioning, and highly resilient, they absorb the impact of each step and then spring back — delivering comfort and spring with every foot strike. This process is repeated, step after step, and the ergonomic benefits accrue throughout the day. The body feels there is more juice left in the tank, more energy to complete one’s tasks properly and make work run fast. The inspiration to introduce the benefits of ETPU into safety footwear came from Solid Gear designers and engineers who saw that particle-based foams made of expandable polyurethane, when applied to safety footwear, resulted in advances in performance and comfort. Because of its great durability and flexibility, ETPU works in tandem with other core materials to create work shoes that deliver ergonomic, long-lasting comfort with every step.