BASF Provides Energy Boost to Runners with Polyurethane

BASF's polyurethane-based cushioning system is used in newly produced Brooks Levitate running shoes with DNA AMP performance, and thanks to shoes featuring this new material, runners will expend less energy. BASF's polyurethane-based cushioning system supports runners with the latest innovation alongside the launch of the completely new Brooks Levitate running shoes with DNA AMP performance. Based on seven years of research and partnership with BASF, Brooks Levitate is distinguished as the first shoe to feature a DNA AMP midsole composed of a new blend of BASF's new Elastopan® Sports Light material. Through the development of the formula and modification of polyurethane at the molecular level, the DNA AMP midsole provides increased comfort and durability while delivering 72 percent energy return per foot-pound of force to runners according to Brooks' test method. Foot-pound is used in engineering as a unit of force and energy transfer applied linearly by a foot. Chau Nguyen, BASF North America Footwear Market Manager, said: "Brooks Running is regarded by many as a leader in the performance running shoe sector. Through the partnership we have undertaken to develop the completely new Levitate, BASF leveraged its performance materials expertise to create a polyurethane midsole manufactured specifically for Brooks."

Based on seven years of research and partnership with BASF, Brooks Levitate is the first shoe to feature a DNA AMP midsole composed of a new blend of BASF's new Elastopan Sports Light material.

This new cushioning material expands under the runner's foot and provides greater energy return as force is applied. This results in less energy expenditure during a run. Additionally, compared to traditional midsole materials such as ethylene-vinyl-acetate, BASF's high-performance polyurethane formulations increase compression set efficiency by maintaining the midsole's original thickness throughout the shoe's life, providing long-term wear resistance and functionality. Nguyen said: "We see two important trends in the sports footwear market: consumer demand for lightweight, comfortable and durable shoes, and growing interest in automating the shoe manufacturing process. The result has been renewed interest in sports shoes and the use of high-performance polyurethane." Footwear manufacturers have relied on BASF's material expertise and innovations for over forty years in custom-manufactured polyurethane systems and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers for the production of all types of soles. Since consumers seek high-quality products that can enhance their experience, BASF works directly with leading brands throughout the development process, enhancing existing technologies or developing new ones to meet performance demands. Zach Boteilho, Senior Innovation Developer at Brooks Running, said: "Brooks Levitate with DNA AMP was developed from the ground up to provide runners with an experience of boundless energy. We are excited to work with BASF in bringing to life the new, revolutionary DNA AMP midsole technology that returns energy to runners by making the experience extremely enjoyable so they can run forever."