'Oh Haun' is the Trend... New Sneaker Race

Following the Trend of Heavy Walking and Power Walking
Pro-Level Walking and Running Shoes Gain Popularity
Incorporating Advanced Technology for High Performance

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Hye-sun] This fall, competition among sports companies for new sneaker releases is fierce. As the 'Oh-Haun (One Day Workout)' trend expands amid the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic and the season becomes ideal for outdoor activities, the importance of sneakers is growing across specialized sports fields ranging from walking to golf and tennis.

According to the fashion industry on the 51st day, 'walking,' which started as a nearby stroll within one's living radius, has established itself as a form of exercise, leading to the emergence of 'Heavy Walkers' who walk over 20 km at once and 'Power Walkers' who walk across various terrains.

Prospexs targeted this demand by introducing the 'Blade BX,' a sneaker for walking that incorporates Prospexs' unique walking technology. It features a new sole called 'S-Blade,' which uses Pevex, an ultra-lightweight elastic material, on the heel to enhance energy recovery. The midsole uses SOVA material that stabilizes walking by controlling foot sway and dispersing impact upon landing. The insole's 'Impact Zone 2' provides three-dimensional support for both horizontal and vertical arches and increases shock absorption with a sandglass-structured triple hardness cushioning.

Adidas' running shoe '4D Forward' is equipped with a 4D lattice-structured midsole technology developed over four years in collaboration with Carbon. To create a precise midsole, it utilizes accumulated athlete data over many years and applies a technology that prints the product directly inside synthetic resin using ultraviolet (UV) light, unlike traditional manufacturing methods, offering a design that considers runners' movements in detail.

Lacoste's 'AG-LT 21 Ultra' was worn by Daniil Medvedev, who ranked second in the world, during the first round of the 2021 Miami Open. The 3D-patterned hindfoot and padded ankle area, designed to enhance speed, stability, and agility, provide optimal comfort during exercise and guarantee excellent stability and durability even during sudden direction changes and friction on the court.

A sports industry insider explained, "With the normalization of exercise, the number of 'Pro-True'?amateurs comparable to professionals?is also increasing," adding, "As more consumers hesitate less to purchase equipment or products that enhance exercise effectiveness, companies are continuously releasing sneakers armed with functionality."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.