A new footwear lining design provides a cooling sensation through a dual-component finishing system that reduces surface temperature and enhances moisture diffusion.
The CoolFeel project developed a footwear lining design with a cooling system that uses a dual-component finishing system. Laboratory tests showed that the treated lining had faster moisture diffusion rates and reduced surface temperature compared to untreated samples. Even after repeated washing cycles, the system still provided a moderate cooling effect.
Abstract
The CoolFeel project introduces an innovative footwear lining design that provides a tangible cooling sensation, enhancing user comfort in hot weather or during intense physical activity. This design incorporates the Cool In dual-component finishing system developed by Proneem, applied via spray coating onto the surface of the shoe lining. The treatment is mechanically activated and engineered to generate a localized temperature-reducing effect under humid conditions.
The project aims to integrate this technology into footwear manufacturing processes while ensuring material compatibility, production efficiency, and consumer-level performance. Laboratory evaluations conducted before and after repeated washing cycles revealed that the treated lining maintains similar absorption speed compared to untreated samples, yet demonstrates superior moisture diffusion rates (up to 1.37 times faster when unwashed) and infrared-measurable surface temperature reduction of up to 1.4°C. Even after ten washing cycles, the system retained moderate performance with a 0.5°C temperature drop and over 1.07x faster diffusion rate. CoolFeel represents a sustainable and consumer-driven innovation that addresses thermophysiological discomfort in footwear. It offers a viable solution for brands seeking to differentiate through functional design and enhanced user experience, particularly in warm climates and performance-driven market segments.
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