Read more - Lowa Boots

glossaryLastsThe last determines the inner shape of the boot and is the major component in determining the fit. LOWA lasts are preciselydesigned according to years of anatomical data about foot shapes and sizes. Lasts are a molded cast of a foot shape. It providesthe form or template, which the leather upper is shaped upon. LOWA boots are built on different lasts for men and women, tomaximize comfort and fit.Micro-suedeAn ultra lightweight and durable synthetic leather. Has water repellent properties and is used in our ATC Outdoor Fitnesscollection of footwear. Dries quickly, high abrasion resistance.Midsole/OutsoleMidsole is the portion of the boot between the leather upper and rubber outsole. Midsole is often made of PU (polyurethane).Provides cushioning and shock absorption, stability and support. Outsole is made of rubber, often made by Vibram®. Outsolelugs provide traction and stability underfoot.Nubuck leatherUsed in the upper portion of the boot. Full grain leather that has been lightly sanded for a softer, suede-like finish. Durableand rugged.OutsoleThe outermost sole of the shoe, it is generally a rubber or TPU sole unit at the bottom of footwear.PronateThe flattening of the arch when the foot strikes the ground. Excessive pronation causes increased stress on the inside/medialaspect of the foot.PU (polyurethane)Used most often as midsole material. PU in foam form is “blown” with air to produce a foam, usually denser, heavier and moredurable than EVA. Has excellent cushioning properties.RandMost often applied to the toe and heel of a boot to protect against bumping and scraping. Rubber rands are hand-wrapped andglued on; leather rands are sewn on.ShankPart of the midsole, it provides the boot with correct torsional rigidity and appropriate flex. Nylon shanks are sandwichedbetween the midsole and outsole. Vary in stiffness according to category, boot and gender. LOWA uses nylon shanks vs steelbecause nylon does not conduct cold, and nylon offers better support underfoot. Placed in the midsole between the heel and ballof the foot.Split leatherWhen leather is split, the inner, more textured side, or suede is exposed.SPS systemLOWA proprietary technology in which strategically placed TPU (thermoplastic urethane) inserts are placed in the PU(polyurethane) midsole. These visible harder TPU inserts create “zones” of support and literally guide the foot into a properwalking motion.StabilizerPlastic stabilizer is used to provide ankle stability and torsional control underfoot. Placed between the midsole and outsole, it isdesigned to flex and support in LOWA’s ATC boots and shoes. Proportionate support for all foot sizes.SupinateWhen the ankle “tips” outward, so you are standing on the outside border of the foot. Excessive supination predisposes the ankleto injury because the stabilizing muscles on the outside of the lower leg are in a stretched position.TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)Polyurethane that can be blown or molded. Used in several of LOWA’s ATC Trail shoes. Lightweight, harder than rubber - morewear resistant.Vibram ®Italian company which is one of the most respected manufacturers of outsoles.WXLExpanded toe box. Higher and broader in the front of the foot area.Glossary29