Running in style and comfort

Oct. 9, 2003
New Balance sneakers have more cushion for the pushin' thanks to DuPont's, Wilmington, Del., Hytrel thermoplastic polyester elastomer.
 

New Balance sneakers have more cushion for the pushin' thanks to DuPont's, Wilmington, Del., Hytrel thermoplastic polyester elastomer. The material forms an advanced heel-cushioning system that promises lasting resiliency. At the heart of the N-ergy S.C. System, from New Balance Athletic Shoe Inc., is a hollow component blow-molded from Hytrel. The part compresses on impact, absorbing shock and rebounding to its original shape after every heel strike. "The resiliency of Hytrel helps achieve a responsive, springy feel," says Sean Murphy, advanced products engineer at New Balance. "And the material keeps its resiliency with repetitive impact."

The elastomer material has low compression set and flex-fatigue resistance. The heel cartridge is a two-chamber design with a stabilizing outer rim providing motion control and support, and an elliptical center section that adds responsive cushioning.

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