The X-Range neoprene boots from Zhik are a further development of the Lightweight Hiking Boots. A particularly striking feature of both models is the reinforcement on the instep. This detail is aimed at dinghy sailors who are equipped with outrigger harnesses and require an active shift of body weight to windward. Not only a non-slip sole is important here, but also the reinforcement on the foot in order to be able to stay under the straps with as little fatigue as possible. For even more stability, the new shoes offer a higher shaft and the side lacing already familiar from the previous model. The off-centre placement leaves space on the instep for the aforementioned reinforcement and the lacing allows for individual adjustment. An additional strap looped around the shaft promises additional support.
However, the real innovation is invisibly concealed in the shoe: the carbon fibre-reinforced insole. The super-thin laminate can only be bent in one direction. This allows the foot to roll smoothly when running. In the other direction, however, the carbon fibre laminate remains completely rigid. In combination with the boot, less force is required to bend the feet under the harness. Dinghy sailors know the stinging pain in the muscle area on the shin on long upwind courses. The Zhik X-Range shoes with their carbon fibre inner sole are designed to relieve precisely this muscle group.
The Dame jury awards the prestigious Dame design prize every year at METS in Amsterdam. In addition to the winner, products from individual categories are also honoured. In addition, exciting innovations are recognised alongside the winners with the so-called Special Mentions. The Zhik X-Range with the carbon fibre insole was honoured with this special mention.
It is not yet clear when the new X-Range dinghy boots will be launched on the market. Zhik has also not yet announced a price.
