Asics New Gel-Kinsei

The GEL-KINSEI featured a revolutionary system of rearfoot cushioning and load guidance based on discrete units of dual density GEL. This world’s first technology is chiefly responsible for the extraordinary ride. Just very recently the technology became available to include also a discrete forefoot set-up, including discrete GEL units - as initially planned in the original blueprint. With discrete rearfoot and forefoot technology, the NEW GEL-KINSEI showcases the most sophisticated midsole technology ever conceived.
Ground-breaking is also the asymmetrical lacing design. Working on the principle that the topography of the foot is asymmetrical. The lacing of the NEW GEL-KINSEI follows the actual anatomical profile of the foot, and therefore curves in a medial direction. The result is the most optimal fit.

In terms of upper material technology, the NEW GEL-KINSEI adds the incredible nanotechnology of Cuprothermo, a nano coating of fibre with metal endowing the upper of the NEW GEL-KINSEI with amazing insulating properties.
Other updates are the new Propulsion Trusstic for better responsiveness. New P.H.F. (Personal Heel Fit) for better heel fit. New Space Trusstic, giving weight advantage and better stability. Plus a unique Wing Construction to contribute to side-to-side stability.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

Upper: Cuprothermo, synthetic leather, Biomorphic Fit, Personal Heel Fit, 3M reflective, Asymmetrical Lacing Design.
Sole: I.G.S., SoLyte mid-sole, Pebax heel plate, dual-density GEL units, Space Trusstic, Propulsion Trusstic, AHAR+ heel, DuraSponge rubber forefoot.
Features: SoLyte 45 lasted, Wing Construction, removable ComforDry sockliner.

NEW GEL-KINSEI : TECHNOLOGY ENCYCLOPEDIA

1 . FORE FOOT DISCRETE SOL E:

The GEL-KINSEI featured a revolutionary system for rearfoot cushioning and load guidance based on discrete units of dual density GEL, a world’s first technology and chiefly responsible for the extraordinary ride.
Due to availability of new existing technologies, the NEW GEL-KINSEI includes rearfoot and discrete forefoot GEL units, as part of the discrete set-up. The result: Multiplane, multidirectional, instantly responsive load recognition and deflection. Uncompromising athlete protection and a superb ride.

2 . ASYMMETRICAL LACING DESIGN:

The NEW GEL-KINSEI introduces a radical new upper system that redefines the Biomorphic Fit System. This new version acknowledges the asymmetry of the foot. The shape of the foot is not a pyramid.
Rather the highest point of the instep is concentrated medially. The Asymmetrical Lacing System follows the actual anatomical profile of the foot and therefore curves in a medial direction, resulting in a brilliant fit.

3 .CUPROTHERMO:

On top of the Spacemaster UV-technology, the NEW GEL-KINSEI adds the incredible nanotechnology of Cuprothermo. This nano coating of fibre with metal endowes the upper of the NEW GEL-KINSEI with amazing insulating properties. In a cold climate, it maintains in-shoe warmth – but in a warm climate, the reverse is true. Then the Cuprothermo reflects heat and maintains a cool in-shoe climate. Also, Cuprothermo improves hydrophilicity and reduces static electricity caused by shoe-surface friction.

4 . PROPULSION TRUSSTIC:

The all new ASICS Propulsion Trusstic System is the next generation of I.G.S. technology. It follows the principles of enhancing the normal engineering advantages of the foot, working with it to provide stability and push-off power. In other words, it copies the anatomical design of the plantar surface of the foot. The ASICS Propulsion Trusstic System functions just like the ligaments responsible for converting the foot to a powerful, rigid lever and providing a platform for the tremendous load of forward motion. The PU (Polyurethane) Propulsion Trusstic unit extends medially and laterally providing powerful bands which are cross-linked to stabilise the midfoot and forefoot. The Propulsion Trusstic is anchored proximally and integrates with the rearfoot cradle. The result: extraordinary strength and power in propulsion combined with great responsiveness and efficiency.

5 .NEW P.H. F . ( PERSONAL HEEL FIT ) :

ASICS P.H.F. works with Biomorphic Fit Technology to provide the best upper fit and function possible. The latest P.H.F. features a unique tri-layered construction, including 2 separate layers of 7mm memory foam and one 7mm layer of sponge foam. The new P.H.F. system holds the athlete in the shoe like never before.

6 . SPACE TRUSSTIC:

The NEW GEL-KINSEI builds on the original Space Trusstic Technology, designed specifically to enhance windlass mechanics and generate the unique ASICS ride. It features no Polyurethane in order to reduce weight. This also contributes to the speed image and sleek lines of the shoe. The seamless integration of the Space Trusstic gives the NEW GEL-KINSEI unsurpassed stability and ride.

7 .WING CONSTRUCTION:

The NEW GEL-KINSEI features a unique wing construction over the medial and lateral heel counter designed to improve side-to-side stability and maintain foot position within the shoe. From a design perspective the look is definitely fast and aggressive.

Adidas Predator PowerSwerve

The ninth generation of the Predator® family sets new standards, in particular with regard to power, swerve and control. Scientific tests have shown that, in comparison to its predecessor, the Predator® PowerSwerve can achieve up to eight percent more swerve and increase the power behind every shot by around three percent. The Dynamic PowerPulse™ technology in the sole of the boot and the special hi-tech foam in the forefoot upper material make these improvements possible. The PowerPulse™ element filled with tungsten powder, which shifts weight toward the point of impact, enables players to put more power behind every shot. The hi-tech foam in the Predator® element ensures added power, more swerve and better ball control.

The new Predator® PowerSwerve will be available at retail in black/white and white/black from December. Further models will be brought to market in the course of 2008, the year of the European Championships.

Predator® PowerSwerve — Tech

Dynamic PowerPulse™

Dynamic PowerPulse™ utilizes a Tungsten powder-filled PowerPulse™ element that shifts weight toward the point of impact as you kick, allowing more powerful shots and increased flexibilty. With Dynamic PowerPulse™, players can experience the most powerful Predator® ever. Add an adiPrene® insert in the sockliner and you have unprecedented comfort, power and flexibility.

Engineered Predator® Technology

Low-profile Engineered Predator® elements have been integrated into the Power Zone on top of the forefoot for even more power behind every shot, while enhanced Predator® technology in the Swerve Zone at the side continues to give shots and passes the swerve and control that have made this the world’s most elite Football boot for over a decade.

Hi-tech Foam

Hi-tech foam, used in the Predator® element, allows for more rebound power, more swerve and improved control through longer contact with the ball.

X-Traxion®

Quick-change stud system for maximum pitch penetration and minimal stud pressure.

Split Outsole

Provides lightweight stability for solid foot placement on any pitch.

Xternal Heel Counter

Smaller but extremely strong, the dual-compound heel counter reduces pressure on the Achilles tendon and provides comfort and stability.

Asymmetrical Loop Lacing

Offset lacing provides a larger, cleaner kicking surface to eliminate missed shots and passes.

Adidas Predator History

Adidas Predator had been known as the world's best selling football boot. The common feature of the Predator range is the presence of rubber patches or strips on the top of the shoe that, according to Adidas, increase power, swerve, and accuracy when kicking the ball. In early 1990's Craig Johnston, former Liverpool winger from Australia, came up with the idea of attaching rubber patches with teeth-like dimples to the outside of the kicking area of the boot in order to apply extra spin to the ball when passing and shooting, this prototype design then become the first Adidas Predator series.

The Series

Predator (1994)

The First Adidas Predator introduced on the occasion of World Cup '94 in USA. This shoes makes the player had more power, more control and more swerve when kicking a ball with more accuracy. Adidas Predator proving to be a revolution in football footwear with the technology innovation considered as the greatest since the screw-in stud had been introduced.

Predator Rapier (1995)

Adidas Rapier also known as Adidas Predator II, is an update from the former model. The rubber-fins get a re-design to offered a greater ball control and increased power. Another improvement was it offered a more natural fit to the foot. Predator Rapier was the first who had a fold-over tounge design.

Predator Touch (1996)

The Predator Touch meant a change in many ways. It featured the Traxion (trx) studs which enabling increased grip. Traxion studs where rectangular and anatomically placed in sole. Before, studs had always been round. The Predator Touch first seen on EURO 1996.

Predator Accelerator (1998)

To coincide with the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, Adidas launched the Predator Accelerator. With a more anatomically sound and professional fit, the football boot included asymmetrical loop lacing providing a larger, cleaner kicking surface to eliminate missed shots and passes.

Predator Precision (2000)

The Adidas Predator Precision was launched during the EURO 2000, with exchangeable TRAXION studs: XTRAXION. A merge between some of the leading football boot innovations ever: the idea of exchangeable studs from 1954 and the Predator and TRAXION technologies of the mid ‘90s. The exchangeable Traxion studs that were fitted by the tightening of a minute screw. These studs were available in various lengths that made the boot adjustable to ground conditions as is possible with the classic screw-in soft-ground studs. There were however some reliability problems, as the studs would come loose quite often, thus needing more constant maintenance than the classic screw-ins.

Predator Mania (2002)

The 2002 FIFA World Cup in Korea-Japan was the launch pad for the Predator Mania. As a much lighter Predator football boot, the Mania featured a split outsole construction. The renewed configuration of the Predator compound allowed players to give the ball even more swerve than before.

Predator Pulse (2004)

The Predator Pulse presented in 2004 featured the new PowerPulse technology for the first time. The PowerPulse unit, relocates only 40 grams of weight to the front of the shoe, achieving an increased power transfer of 3% in every kick. This means increased ball speed and ultimately less reaction time for a goalkeeper when the ball is shot on goal. The Predator once again confirmed its status as the world’s premier football boot, selling well over two million pairs in 2004 and 2005.

Predator Absolute (2006)

Adidas unleashed its most accurate, lightest and most powerful football boot at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany: the Predator Absolute. The 8th generation of Predator features the revolutionary Exchangeable PowerPulse technology, allowing players to add power to taste!

Predator PowerSwerve (2007)

Adidas' newest version of the Predator, the PowerSwerve, achieves eight percent more swerve and increases the power behind every shot by around three percent, compared to its predecessor. The dynamic Powerpulse and engineered Predator technology elements shifts weight toward the point of impact as you kick, whilst adding forefoot power (Power Zone), allowing more powerful shots and increased flexibilty. Increased shot and pass swerve is achieved by enhanced Predator technology in the Swerve Zone at the side of the football boot.
More about Predator PowerSwerve.

Adidas Barricade V

Just released in Melbourne, Australia, the Barricade V is the lightest version yet, with the same familiar snug and supportive fit. The Barricade V retails at 125 € and is available at leading sports retailers around the world.
Key features include:
Upper: Synthetic leather upper for lightweight and durability.
Midsole: adiprene+ insert for forefoot propulsion and efficiency. Extended Torsion System for midfoot and forefoot integrity. Feathered construction allowing for ultimate performance in multi-directional sports.
Outsole: Adiwear for the best durability in high wear areas

The first adidas Barricade was introduced in 1999, designed to be the perfect hard-court tennis shoe, combining extraordinary comfort with maximum stability. The Barricade has since then been worn by some of the best tennis professionals over the past decade including Marat Safin, Justine Henin, Novak Djokovic, Alicia Molik and Ana Ivanovic.

Shoe Size

Mondopoint is a universal and standardised size system that takes the anatomic shape of the foot as a starting point. Below is an overview of MondoPoint sizes and the corresponding European and American sizes.

Mondopoint	225	232	240	247	255	262	270	277	285	292	300	307	315	322
French sizes	36	37	38	39	40	41	42	43	44	45	46	47	48	49
UK	3	4	5	6	6,5	7	8	9	9,5	10	11	12	13	14
USA female	5	6	7	7,5	8	9	10	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
USA male	3	4	5	6	7	7,5	8	9	10	11	12	13	14	15

Shoe Fit Tips

Tips for Finding the Right Shoe

Follow these specially designed fitting facts when purchasing a new pair of athletic shoes.

• Try on athletic shoes after a workout or run and at the end of the day. Your feet will be at their largest.
• Wear the same type of sock that you will wear for that sport.
• When the shoe is on your foot, you should be able to freely wiggle all of your toes.
• The shoes should be comfortable as soon as you try them on. There is no break-in period.
• Walk or run a few steps in your shoes. They should be comfortable.
• Always relace the shoes you are trying on. You should begin at the farthest eyelets and apply even pressure as you a crisscross lacing pattern to the top of the shoe.
• There should be a firm grip of the shoe to your heel. Your heel should not slip as you walk or run.
• If you participate in a sport three or more times a week, you need a sports-specific shoe.
• It is best to buy from a store that specializes in athletic shoes and has a good reputation. If you are a runner, make certain to ask local runners clubs and runners that you know where they recommend you purchase your shoes. You might also call the office of a local sports podiatrist for suggestions.
• Bring Useful information to the store. What injuries have you had in the past and what if anything is your current problem? Bring your old shoes in to the store. Which shoes have been succesfully used in the past and which ones caused problems? What is your general foot type and foot shape? How have previous shoe models worn?

Athletic Shoe

An athletic shoe is a generic name for a shoe designed for sporting and physical activities, and is different in style and build than a dress shoe. Originally known as sporting apparel, today they are known as casual footwear. Athletic shoes, depending on the location and the actual type of footwear, can also go by the name trainers (British English), sandshoes (Australian English) running shoes or runners (Canadian English, Australian English, Hiberno-English), sneakers (North American English, Australian English), gym shoes, tennis shoes, tennies (North American English, South African English) sport shoes, sneaks, takkies (South African English) and joggers (Australian English).
Men's and women's athletic shoes and special function shoes often have less difference between the sexes than in dress shoes. In many cases these shoes can be worn by either sex. It tends to be more on function than style.

Type of Athletic Shoe

Sneakers/trainers

(also called gym shoes or tennis shoes)
General purpose athletic shoes; made out of rubber, cloth, and/or plastic to be lightweight, flexible, and have good traction. Special varieties are available for basketball or tennis.

Running shoes

very similar to above, with additional emphasis on cushioning.

Track shoes

lightweight; often with plastic or metal cleats

Cleat (shoe)

a type of shoe featuring molded or removable studs. Usually worn while playing sports such as rugby, football, American football, or baseball.

Golf shoes

with "spikes" for better grip in grass and wet ground. Originally the spikes or "cleats" were made of metal but replaceable "soft spikes" made of synthetic plastic-like materials with prongs distributed radially around the edge of each spike are much more common today (and are required on many golf courses since they cause less damage to the greens).

Bowling shoes

intermediate style between ordinary dress shoes and athletic shoes. They have harder rubber soles/heels so as not to damage bowling alley floors. They are often rented or loaned at bowling alleys.

Climbing shoes

a shoe designed for rock climbing. They typically have a close fit, little if any padding, and a smooth sticky rubber sole with an extended rubber rand.

Hiking shoes or boots

usually have a high somewhat stiff upper with many lace eyelets, to provide ankle support on uneven terrain, with extra large traction on the sole.

Walking shoes

have a more flexible sole than the running shoe, lighter in weight than the hiking boot, may have air holes, may not be water proof.

Skating shoes

typically called skates. They have various attachments for skating on the bottom of the shoe portion. Such as for Ice skates, Roller skates and Inline skates

Ski boot

a large, thick plastic boot specially designed for attachment to the ski.

Skateboarding shoes

This shoes have flat soles for a better grip on a skateboard. They are very wide and have extra layers of padding to protect the skateboarders feet. Many young people wear them for comfort.

Cycling shoes

equipped with a metal or plastic cleat to interface with clipless pedals, as well as a stiff sole to maximize power transfer and support the foot.

Wrestling shoes

light, flexible shoes that mimic bare feet while providing additional traction and protection.

Shoe Material

KEVLAR®

is one of the most important manmade organic fibres ever developed. Because of its unique combination of properties it is used today in a wide variety of industrial applications. The fibre possesses a remarkable combination of properties that has led to its use in a variety of commercial products since the 1970's.
Fibres of KEVLAR® consist of long, interconnecting molecular chains produced from poly-paraphenylene terephthalamide. Kevlar is 10 times the strength of leather.

Leather/canvas

This material is thin, stable and low density. A Kangaroo leather commonly used in football shoes because it gives a footballer that extra spring in his or her step and it offers good elasticity.

Compression-molded EVA

The most common insole material. EVA stands for ethylene vinyl acetate, a combination of two types of plastics. This material revolutionised the construction of sports shoes. It was made up of tiny air bubbles that provide cushioning and absorbs shock. This material is injection moulded into shapes, which serve as heel supports.

Polyurethane

Another type of material that behaves like plastic or rubber, and is used in midsoles. Polyurethane is a unique material that offers the elasticity of rubber combined with the toughness and durability of metal. Polyurethane is not as commonly used as EVA because it tends to be heavier and firmer.

Carbon Rubber

Durable rubber compound that makes up the majority of running shoe outsoles.

Blown Rubber

Air-injected rubber that is lighter, softer and more flexible than traditional rubber. Blown rubber is most often found in the forefoot. It provides a great feel but is less durable than carbon rubber.