OUTDOOR RETAILER MARKET, SLC-UTAH
Words, Images Judith Ecochard
We passed the Aetrex® booth with its techy display flat panel/foot scanner gizmo ---in awe…and envy.
Curious at first, we became happy campers when we finally got the scoop on this brand of orthotics, customizable inserts, and footwear… and got scanned (by the iStep SP5000)…as our feet were REALLY hurting on the last day. And we weren’t wearing our usual fashionista heels either…
BACKGROUND:
Beginning with health industry geared orthotics (now including LYNCO® and a Custom Select Series),… and a line of therapeutic stylish footwear (the Ambulator shoes)…for those with medical issues, Aetrex is fast becoming known for its patented MOZAIC™ Customization Technology…whereby one’s peds get scanned for arch type, pressure points, etc…
And then removable footbed inserts (topped with breathable, moisture management friendly liners)… are customized via cushiony cells that can be added or removed, depending. For the ultimate in comfort, support and proper alignment.
THE PROCESS:
We stepped on this “Shop In Shop” black rubbery plate with raised bumps-made up of 1326 infrared LEDs and receptors- that contained the “3744 Gold plated barometric sensors that measure the pressure exerted by the foot every 0.25 cm2.”
We were impressed. Then our feet were passed over (under) ten times. The masterpiece was a composite digital picture (2D or 3D options) on the above flat panel screen. Starring our peds…it was something like out of that Rolling Stones, “Emotional Rescue” artwork.
Apparently, different pressure points, how our weight was balanced, and arch type was analyzed by the iStep’s proprietary software--- we could see---and actually interpret the results, with help. VERY COOL.
We could also see why customized orthotics for athletes (hello pronators) and golfers (a collaboration with Callaway Golf with CopperGuard™ tops that are odor/bacteria controlling)…are very popular.
We got a pair of the affordable shock absorbing orthotics with Pro-Shax high-tech polyester fibers that wick away moisture for a cool “friction free” surface. The inserts (with those green removeable/insertab;e “Mozaic” cells) got a test drive on a grueling 11 hour hike we did…and probably spared our feet the usual calluses and throbbing pain we always get after such jaunts.
NEW FOR SPRING:
Sandalistas™ -aka “liberation for the sole™” is a collection of four ladies sandals with an anatomically shaped and contoured footbed with built in Lynco® support. (A Clash fan on staff, perhaps). This means the umph where we need it plus an IQ150 Memory foam that “conforms” to gait patterns for ideal pressure distribution.
And yes, the patented Mozaic™ Custom Technology is built in…so wearers can customize each pair.
(Styles: Montserrat, Saona, Amalie, Mandehle $120-$140)
For everyday wear, the durable Essence™ Collection for women and the Gramercy™ Collection for men offer many fashion friendly shoes…that are ideal hybrids of “style, function and customization.”
We like the new Wedge Collection for gals, available in full leather or mixed materials in Pumps, Mary Janes and Loafer styles. Added plus: TPU heel counter reinforcement for added stability.
The handsome Gramery bunch of Slip-Ons, Oxfords, Lace-Ups, and Driving Mocs -- don’t compromised on the uppers (leathers with hand burnished and sophisticated stitching details, leather linings etc) …
…and all had the Mozaic™ insoles/removable inserts for those that go the distance.
FACTOID: “The word Aetrex is a derivation of Ae-Treks, meaning One Journey." In the business of feet accoutrements for over 63 years.
FOR INFO ON OTHER STYLES OF AETREX’s INCLUDING HIGH PERFORMANCE AND TRAIL RUNNING SHOES, PLUS STORE LOCATORS:
AETREX