Salomon has unveiled the new Index.02, a new recyclable running shoe that builds on the Index.01 model the company introduced two years ago. Like its predecessor, the Index.02 is 100 percent recyclable. It’s also 10 percent lighter (263 grams) and offers massive improvements in comfort and performance thanks to enhancements in midsole geometry, foam quality and upper construction. Most notably, the Index.02’s midsole foam and midsole geometry have improved comfort and running performance by providing smoother transitions from stride to stride.
Like its predecessor, the Index.02 has a unique construction that allows it to be disassembled at the end of its life so that the shoe materials can be recycled and used to make a new product. There’s even a subtle line along the shoe that shows where it will be split when recycled. The different colors of the upper and lower part of the shoe make it clear that it is only made of two materials and can be separated at the end of its life. A QR code on the tongue of a shoe allows the shoe owner to easily scan and register it after purchase so they can easily return it for recycling at the end of its life. As with the Index.01, materials from Index.02 boots returned for recycling in Europe will be used to make Salomon alpine ski boots.
The Index.01, which will be launched in 2021, was Salomon’s first boot designed for recycling. The recycled materials are used in the construction of Salomon’s MTN Pure ski touring boots.
