Is this the most sustainable trail running shoe?

Is the Outstanding Outdoor winner Icebug Outrun RB9X the most sustainable trail running shoe in the world? Icebug believes so – and the closest competitors are most likely other Icebug shoes.

At the beginning of 2019, the Swedish company Icebug became the first climate positive outdoor footwear brand. Icebug has joined the UN’s Climate Neutral Now Pledge, meaning the company are committed to reduce CO2 emissions as much as possible, and then offset the emissions and over-compensate with 30%.

For SS20, Icebug has taken sustainability work even further. All SS20 midsoles now contain 20% Bloom Foam, which is a type of foam made by algae. All textile uppers in the collection are bluesign® certified, as well as all linings. In addition to that, all RB9X outsoles contain 15% recycled rubber.

“Sustainability is a main part of our brand. Every material we use are under constant review, to see if we can make a less environmental impact without losing any performance”, says Karin Möller, creative director and head of design at Icebug.

One of the highlights in the collection is the Outrun RB9X, which was the winner in the trail running footwear category at Outstanding Outdoor 2019. Outrun is also, according to Icebug, probably the most sustainable trail running shoe on the market.

“If any other brand has managed to produce a more sustainable shoe – please contact us. We’re always striving to improve, as well as we’re always willing to share our knowledge with others. I believe that cooperation is a key when it comes to sustainability”, says Karin Möller.

Icebug OutRun RB9X is made with a focus on comfort, resulting in a trail running shoe ideal for both long distance running and recreational runners looking for cushioning and stability. The outsole is made of Icebug’s own rubber compound RB9X, which has up to 40% better traction than other rubber compounds and an abrasion resistance 50% higher than what’s recommended for an asphalt running shoe.

“OutRun RB9X combines the best of two worlds. It has the traction and ground control needed for technical trails but at the same time extraordinary amounts of comfort, which makes it easy to use for several hours of running. OutRun is a great addition to the Icebug shoe family”, says Karin Möller.

Outrun RB9X will be available in selected stores and at Icebug.com SS20.

 

 

About Icebug

Icebug is a Swedish shoe company that back in 2001 started to challenge the global footwear giants with new innovative traction technologies. The reason why Icebug started was the frustration of having to choose between slipping or saying no to outdoor activities because of the risk of slipping. Icebug traction technologies enable people to enjoy outdoor activities all year around, no matter the conditions.

Icebug (HQ)
Fabriksstråket 35
433 76 Jonsered