Vamas uses smartlite to step out in style

Italian soling specialist Vamas has turned to Huntsman Polyurethane's smartLite technology to meet growing demand from premium footwear producers for top quality, reduced weight, dual-density soles. Employed by Vamas to create midsoles for use in conjunction with thin compact TPU outsoles, smartLite is a cost-effective, high performance replacement for traditional dual sole combinations including EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) and rubber. Combining the thermoplastic properties of polyurethanes (TPU) with the density reduction of a blown material, smartLite's microcellular nature enables the creation of durable footwear soles that weigh up to 50% less than traditional rubber alternatives. Offering a range of performance and manufacturing benefits, smartLite enables soling developers like Vamas to dramatically improve production efficiencies. Depending on thickness and overall design, a pair of unit soles created using smartLite can be created in just 90 seconds with an impeccable straight-out-of-mould finish. smartLite also enables new technically advanced design possibilities providing increased lightness, long-lasting cushioning and improved overall appearance. Ivano Vagnoli, owner and director of Vamas said: 'The footwear market is increasingly competitive with leading brands adopting advanced technologies that lower costs and improve profitability. This drive has increased demand for dual-density soles made from sophisticated material solutions that maintain quality standards and enable footwear manufacturers to create inspired, lightweight, comfortable soling designs in multiple colour combinations. By embracing products like smartLite, we can ensure Vamas customers stay at the vanguard of technology'. Some of Vamas' key creations have come to life using smartLite. Of particular note is a complex stylish wedge sole with a high, narrow heel and a raised arch. Explaining more, Vagnoli said: 'Our customer originally wanted to produce this model in EVA/rubber. This would have been impossible due to EVA shrinkage problems and the time and costs involved in manual gluing and finishing. However, using Huntsman's smartLite technology we were able to master technical challenges to our customer's satisfaction.' Commenting on Vamas' range of recently launched products containing Huntsman's smartLite technology, Vagnoli continued: 'The reaction of our customers has been overwhelming and we are already very busy with almost twenty new projects for next season. The unrivalled blend of performance, comfort, design versatility and technical excellence offered by SmartLite benefits everyone from sole designers and producers to footwear brands and consumers.' Vamas uses smartLite® 550 which contains enhanced properties that address new environmental requirements and reflects Huntsman's continual drive for innovation. Through a combination of advanced polymer chemistry and blowing agents, the phthalate-free midsole material allows densities as low as 500kg/cu m without compromising quality or design and avoids separate gluing thanks to the material's excellent adhesion properties. Alfons Tremml, Commercial Footwear Manager at Huntsman Polyurethanes said: 'Huntsman is responsive to the challenges facing the footwear industry and is committed to the development of tailored solutions that extend the possibilities of creative sole design. Our dedicated footwear experts continuously look for new ways to adapt existing technologies and put inspiring, contemporary designs within reach of Huntsman customers. We are delighted that smartLite is helping Vamas achieve innovative footwear designs.