The new Swiss Protection Socks are taking the barefoot movement in a completely new direction. These socks from the Swiss Barefoot Company are similar to Vibram FiveFingers, in that they encourage people to ditch athletic shoes for a more natural feel. The Swiss Protection Socks take things further than other natural shoe designs by eliminating the structure of the shoe altogether.
The Swiss Protection Socks is essentially a heavily armored sock designed to be worn in place of a shoe. The sock is made from 50% Kevlar, 32% polyester, 10% cotton and 8% spandex. The socks half-Kevlar composition ensures that your feet are protected from rocks and other ground hazards while the polyester and spandex signal flexibility. The socks are meant to be worn in all manner of outdoor athletic activities (rock climbing and running are shown in the images here). The socks sell for $73 for an ankle pair and $78 for a long pair.
Armored Shoe Substitutes
The Swiss Protection Socks Make it Safe to Go Shoeless
Trend Themes
1. Barefoot Movement - Opportunity for companies to innovate armored socks like the Swiss Protection Socks for a more natural feel in athletic activities.
2. Protection Socks - Investment in protective socks with a heavily armored composition will redefine innovative design in the sock industry.
3. Natural Footwear - Companies can explore natural footwear designs with an elimination of the traditional shoe structure for a more minimalist approach.
Industry Implications
1. Athletic Footwear - Opportunity for athletic footwear companies to capitalize on the increasing popularity of the barefoot movement with more natural and protective footwear designs.
2. Sock Manufacturing - Socks with heavily armored designs will drive innovation in the sock manufacturing industry towards protective athletic socks.
3. Outdoor Gear - Incorporating natural footwear designs will give outdoor gear companies a competitive edge in appealing to consumers seeking a more authentic outdoor experience.