SCOTT Ultra Explore shoe features natural flax fibre in carbon plate
SCOTT Sports has unveiled its new Ultra Explore shoe, a performance-focused trail running shoe inspired by the Ultra Carbon RC which was developed in collaboration with SCOTT trail running athlete Cody Lind.
SCOTT’s Ultra Explore features ‘the world’s first hybrid composite plate’ from Carbitex. According to SCOTT, this market-leading plate, made of 50% flax, 50% UD carbon and a bio-based resin, is designed to enhance performance by delivering maximum energy return with every step.
In a commitment to more responsible material choices, the Ultra Explore includes third-party certified recycled materials in the upper, laces, footbed, midsole, and outsole. Combined with the partially bio-based plate, these elements comprise 58% of the product’s composition by weight, positioning the Ultra Explore as a strong contender in sustainably-focused performance footwear innovation.
Carbitex GearFlex Flax Plate
Billed as the world’s first hybrid composite plate, made of 50% flax, 50% UD carbon and a bio resin, the natural flax fibre in the carbon plate is viable as a reinforcement material due to its long, continuous cellulose fibres, which offer tensile strength and stiffness for a natural fibre.
SCOTT notes that this results in a plate with reduced carbon content but mechanical properties comparable to a 100% carbon plate.
Third party recycled materials
The recycled-polyester, engineered-mesh upper offers comfort and the same durability, breathability, and performance as virgin fibre, with a reduced environmental impact. The midsole and outsole are partially recycled, resulting in 58% eco content by weight.
Evolved Rocker Technology
SCOTT adds that its Evolved Rocker2 (ER2) builds on 10 years of continued R&D, creating the company’s most efficient running platform yet.
ER2 applies SCOTTs understanding of biomechanical principles to promote a more dynamic running position, reducing heel strike impacts and increasing running efficiency.
Check out the SCOTT Sports RIA Foundation Member profile here .