Materials Science
We aim to use materials that are renewable, circular and resource-light to enable us to move the industry beyond petroleum-material dependency.
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Corn Spring®
PERFORMANCE
Our own proprietary blend, Corn Spring®’s flexible bounce combined with the hylo Light’s heel-to-toe drop of 9.5mm provides maximum energy return. Corn Spring® ensures forward momentum and efficient running economy. Our midsole has a compression set value of below 35%.
IMPACT
Corn Spring® incorporates the use of locally-sourced cornstarch in the hylo Light’s midsole reducing the use of EVA whilst utilising a renewable material.
COMPOSITION
15% Polylactic Acid, 85% EVA
Used in
Midsole
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Natural Rubber
PERFORMANCE
Used in the hylo Light's outsole - in the form of decoupling lines and Y-Traction Pods - Natural Rubber increases tear resistance and works in tandem with the foot’s movement allowing the sole to move and flex in multiple directions.
IMPACT
Compared to synthetic rubber, Natural Rubber is produced naturally, predominantly from the native Brazilian plant Hevea brasiliensis. It is renewable and bio-based.
Used in
Outsole
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️RENEWABLE
Regenerative and can be replenished.
PETROLEUM
It is a finite resource and non-renewable – once they’re gone, they’re gone.
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Corn Fibre
PERFORMANCE
Making up 28.52% of the shoe, Corn Fibre is a breathable, lightweight and quick-drying alternative to polyester; however, it retains the strength and resilience associated with its synthetic counterparts.
IMPACT
Derived from naturally-occurring plant sugars, Corn Fibre is a byproduct of corn production and is sourced from within 20km of our factory hub in Putian. It has a lower carbon footprint than petroleum-derived materials, such as polyester.
Used in
Upper
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As yet, no material meets all our sustainability criteria while offering the properties required to meet the standard of performance we set for our sportswear. Something we plan to solve with materials science innovation.
We'll continue to champion materials science innovation and invest in a better future for performance.
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Bioform
PERFORMANCE
Bioform is a high-strength solution for firm structural support - it retains its shape and is able to withstand long-term flexing at the heel. It ensures increased lockdown, meaning a much lower chance of heel slip when applied in the hylo Light’s heel counter.
IMPACT
Minimum 39% Bio-based. Bioform is derived from renewable materials. It’s made using discarded plant matter such as leaves, stalks and cobs of maize. Any production waste from the manufacturing process is recycled back into the production onsite.
Used in
Heel Counter
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RESOURCE-LIGHT
Reduces carbon usage.
PETROLEUM
Carbon-emitting, releasing harmful gases into the atmosphere.
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Organic Cotton
PERFORMANCE
Organic Cotton is durable and has a soft-hand feel. Its natural grip, when used in the hylo Light’s lacework, prevents the laces from slipping meaning the foot remains held throughout a run.
IMPACT
GOTS Certified Organic Cotton emits 94% less greenhouse gases in production compared to conventional cotton. It uses less energy, no hazardous chemicals are applied and is waste-water treated.
Used in
Laces
Back Tab
Woven Label
Insole
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Biorel
PERFORMANCE
Biorel is used in our internal corn-based reinforcement on both the medial and lateral sides of the hylo Light. It is durable, comfortable and provides key support at significant pressure points while running.
IMPACT
Derived from renewable materials, Biorel is bio-based and biodegradable. During production, waste scraps are recycled.
Used in
Corn-Based Reinforcement
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Algae Bloom
PERFORMANCE
Algae has natural thermoplastic performance characteristics ensuring an anatomical insole with a cushioned feel.
IMPACT
Algae is the fastest growing plant on Earth, and it is a vital component of aquatic ecosystems. However, the rise in global temperatures, excess nutrient runoff, and human activities have contributed to an uncontrollable rise in algae growth in ecosystems around the world—harming plant, animal, and even human life. Our use of Algae Bloom™ returns 14 litres of clean water to the habitat per pair. Algae Bloom sequesters carbon dioxide and takes it out of the atmosphere, cleaning 9m3 of air per pair. The material utilises excess algae biomass which does not require fossil fuel or arable land to grow.
COMPOSITION
20% Algae, 80% EVA
Used in
Insole
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CIRCULAR
Can be re-used and therefore reduces waste, keeps products out of landfill.
PETROLEUM
Can take hundreds of years to degrade, if at all, alongside releasing microfibres during use - and, more often than not, ends up in landfill.
