La Sportiva To Debut ECO Built Performance Hiking Series

La Sportiva N.A., makers of technical climbing, mountaineering, Mountain Running® and hiking footwear is set to launch eco-sensitive hiking boot technology for spring 2010 at this summer’s Outdoor Retailer in Salt Lake City (July 21-24). The progressive new line, FC ECO Series, will build upon the success of their signature Flex Control technology and melds the needs of the eco-conscious North American consumer with the technical, performance oriented Italian based footwear company.

In an effort to continually improve their CR platform, La Sportiva focused on the materials and processes used to produce the Spring 2010 FC ECO Series. The outsole uses the Vibram® Eco-step compound composed of 30% recycled rubber content. The new Zero-Waste EVA midsole uses a combination of compression molded and injection molded pieces, which have a net effect of zero waste. The upper uses 100% recycled nylon for the mesh, laces and webbing. The lining uses a Dry-Best® Bristol component with a 40% recycled nylon content.

“Our goal with the FC ECO Series was to incorporate key elements from our vertical product lines into a more sustainable product that does not sacrifice any technical performance,” says Jonathan Lantz, President of La Sportiva N.A. “We want to offer the consumer a product that they can wear to work all day, or around town, yet still performs at the highest levels on trail or the mountains beyond.”

La Sportiva’s Flex Control accentuates and supports the natural movement of the foot during flexion. Originally stemming from its mountaineering boot line, the FC technology focuses on supporting the foot in the key areas required for stability and support. In the key flex zones of the forefoot and ankle, this technology utilizes more flexible materials that are durable yet soft enough to allow an uninhibited flex reducing the amount of energy required for each step. Furthermore, this design allows for unhindered lateral flexibility while still providing longitudinal lockout and support. Most importantly, this new line focuses on comfort and technical performance and provides a highly adaptable fit for most foot types.

La Sportiva’s 2010 FC ECO line will be available in high, mid and low height in GORE-TEX® and a non-waterproof low in both men and women styles. A women specific, all synthetic FC model named the Valhalla, will also be a part of the line and features the same eco-sensitive construction and features a 100% recycled microfiber upper.

“We aimed for a fit that works for a larger segment of the market,” says Lantz. “Plus, we wanted to make it easy for boot fitters to put people in Sportiva hiking boots. The FC ECO Series represents a line of shoes that we feel will work for everyone.”

Samples from La Sportiva’s 2010 FC ECO Series can be seen at this month’s Outdoor Retailer, exhibiting in booth #5027.