DuPont Partners with Sporting Goods Manufacturer BOA Technology
Use of DuPont’s Zytel nylons along with Delrin acetal and Hytrel copolyester elastomer step up performance, fit and durability for BOA footwear.
DuPont has partnered with BOA Technology, sporting goods manufacturer and creator of the BOA Fit System which delivers a fast, effortless, precision fit in footwear and medical bracing to step up performance, fit and durability. The Denver, Colorado-based company selected DuPont’s Zytel impact-modified nylon 66 to achieve higher performance across-the-board, including impact strength, colorability, weatherability, resistance to moisture and stable performance at extreme temperatures.
“DuPont’s Zytel resins have enabled us to raise the bar on the performance and reliability of our current BOA Fit System, strengthening our ability to serve our customers and helping us expand into new market sectors such as trail and court footwear,” said Cody Henderson, BOA Technology’s director of product development operations and sustainability.
The BOA Fit System is featured in products for snow sports, cycling, running, workwear and beyond. The system consists of three integral parts: a micro-adjustable dial, super-strong, lightweight laces, and low-friction lace guides. Each unique configuration is engineered to allow athletes to dial in for a connected, fast, customized and durable fit. Since the BOA Fit System must perform reliably under a variety of usage and environmental conditions, and because the company offers a lifetime guarantee on its products, the materials used must consistently deliver excellent wear resistance, strength and impact resistance, among other properties.
In addition to Zytel nylon grades, DuPont provides BOA with other innovative materials, including Delrin acetal and Hytrel thermoplastic elastomer, which are used for multiple components in different dial designs. Delrin resins combine low friction and high wear resistance with high strength and stiffness and good colorability. Combining the flexibility of rubber with the processing ease of thermoplastics, Hytrel grades offer exceptional durability and resilience in demanding sporting goods applications.
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