Oboz Amps Up Multi-Sport and Hiking Styles for Spring '13

Oboz will expand and reinvigorate its successful multi-sport footwear collection with four new styles in Spring ’13.The new styles feature Oboz’ new ‘Granite Peak’ outsole and midsole package, designed to be ‘True to the Trail,’ the tagline that guides the company brand and products. The new shoes can be used for hiking to short backpacking trips or just knocking about outdoors.

 “The multi-sport category is strong for Oboz and the category is a stalwart in the market,” said Josh Fairchilds, Vice President of Development and Manufacturing.“The sheer versatility of these types of shoes makes them a great value because they can be used for just about any outdoor jaunt.”

Common to all the shoes is the new ‘Granite Peak’ midsole and outsole package, which advances Oboz’ distinctive look yet bundles function into a lighter weight package for agile performance on the trail. Large-surfaced, deep lugs are strategically placed for traction, propulsion and braking yet use less rubber overall to save weight.Toothy perimeter lugs offer superior traction on off-kilter trails. The design features a dual density EVA midsole and is complemented by a shank and a ¾-length TPU chassis which spans the arch, heel and ball of the foot to provide superior torsional structure and stability. Finally, Oboz’ rubber is formulated to strike a balance between long-lasting durability and grippy traction.

The Luna—for women—has a light and nimble profile yet brings full hiking shoe features to the trail. Its perforated, all-synthetic mesh upper is highly breathable and has stitch-free, welded microfiber overlays that anchor the lacing and help hold the midfoot. The collar and tongue offer comfortable padding and support without being puffy. Laces slide easily through all-metal hardware, and the rubberized synthetic toe cap, mud guard and heel protect the feet and add durability.

Moving fast and light in rough terrain is the men’s Traverse Low’s specialty.Like the Luna, it is entirely synthetic with welded leather that wraps the foot over tightly woven mesh that breathes well but keeps pesky grit out.Molded heel counters support and protect the heel but keep the foot in the heel pocket.

The men’s Traverse Mid BDRY covers the range from supportive day hiker to lightweight backpacker, giving men a light boot that might do it all. It is waterproof/breathable thanks to the BDRY membrane, with an upper mesh that balances breathability and abrasion resistance. Oboz’ enhanced lacing system—with a webbing cinch strap that helps settle the heel into place—doesn’t cause undue pressure on the top of the foot. An external, molded heel counter adds stability and support on topsy-turvy trails and when carrying a load.

Rounding out the line-up is the men’s Rimrock. Upper materials strike a balance between breathability and long haul durability. The tightly woven, high abrasion-resistant mesh keeps grit at bay and has supportive Nubuck leather overlays, framing large windows for ventilation. 

Inside all these shoes? Oboz’ after-market quality, triple density BFIT Deluxe footbed. It cradles and supports the arches and further cushions the heel and ball of the foot with pods of urethane foam. This insole will be included in all Oboz products in Spring ’13.

“Our new styles have a lighter, more athletic look and feel, but are highly trustworthy when it comes to the traction, support, protection and durability that is associated with Oboz footwear,” said Fairchilds.

About Oboz

Oboz (www.obozfootwear.com) creates ‘True to the Trail™’ outdoor footwear inspired by the wild environs surrounding the company’s Bozeman, Montana home. ‘The Oboz’ is a place for exploration, play and work, as well as a state of mind that has deep respect for the area’s rich natural heritage. Oboz shoes—which debuted in stores in 2008—are designed to have meaningful innovation, steadfast performance and recognizable quality. Oboz plants a tree for every pair of shoes it sells through Trees for the Future (www.treesftf.org), an international organization that improves livelihoods in developing countries through beneficial tree planting.

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