Offering comfort in footwear comes down to more than just the materials. And while the use of supple leather and textiles absolutely plays a factor, true comfort is only achieved when three key points are combined – high-quality fabrication, artisanal craftsmanship and, finally, technological innovation.
In today’s article, we outline the fundamental part that modern technology has to play, with a terminology overview to understand the value behind the selection of styles we offer.
1. Sole Technology
Injection moulding: Many of our brands (Ara and Ecco being two great examples) use injection moulding technology, which sees the sole compound injected into a mould in liquid form, followed by a special drying process that creates a permanent bond to the leather upper. This means that no glues are used in the shoe’s construction, whilst creating a permanent, long-lasting bond for all-day comfort.
Michelin soles: These are outsoles designed by the world-renowned tyre experts, beloved for their superior grip and durability. Especially tailored for footwear, you’ll find these soles on Camper's Noland gusset boot, among others at Mikko Men’s.
PHORENE™: This is a compound that is lightweight, extremely cushioned and shock adsorbent. Often found in the midsole area, it creates unparalleled comfort underfoot. Usually, it is also bonded with a rubber outsole for durability and traction. Phorene™ can be found in Ecco's David, Duel and Duggan styles, among others.
Adaptaction: A technology seen exclusively in CallagHan footwear, this is when the sole unit itself is designed to expand 5-8mm on the surface during walking, to produce a more comfortable and adaptable personalised fit – this functionality is particularly deal for a wider Kiwi foot.
XL Extralight®: A compound that is incredibly light, yet ultra-durable, XL is renowned for its shock-absorption quality, making for a more comfortable walking experience. You’ll find this technology on the outsoles of some of our favourite brands, namely the Lloyd Landry boot, the CallagHan Hagley lace-up, and Camper's Nordic sneaker.
2. Waterproofing Technology
Gore-Tex: This is the name for a patented textile membrane which sits between the outer layer and the lining of the shoe. It cleverly allows perspiration to transfer in vapour form, whilst keeping any external water out, making for a high-quality shoe that is both waterproof and perfectly acclimatising for the foot. Some great styles that utilise this technology include Ecco’s Damon sneaker, Pius Gabor's Jahari brogue, and Lloyd's Ludwin dress shoe.
3. Inner Comfort Technology
Strobel and 360-degree stitching: This modern design technique creates a more durable bond between the upper and the sole of the shoe, resulting in better flexibility and durability. Find this technique used in Camper's Nash, Nixon and Nicholas styles, among others.
Removable insoles: While this feature is not new in footwear, annual technological developments mean that our brand releases get better with every season. Ecco, Camper, Florsheim and Pius Gabor are just a few of the brands we stock that focus on improving this technology, year after year.
Dual fit insoles: Ideal for those with a wider foot, this technology creates extra width within the shoe when one insole is removed, without compromising on quality or comfort. If this sounds like a feature you need, look to Ecco's Damon, Dennis and Donegal styles.
Ortholite insoles: Featured in Camper and Florsheim footwear, this intelligent technology ensures the insole compresses less than 5% over its entire lifetime, meaning your comfort won’t degrade over time, whilst also offering a healthy moisture management system with its open cell structure.
Bamboo lining: A feature seen in Ara footwear, this 100% biodegradable lining is highly breathable, with unique anti-bacterial properties. The result is soft on the foot, whilst providing up to 60% greater moisture absorption than cotton.
Some of this technology has taken decades of development and refinement to get it just right. It’s one of the many reasons we stand by investing in quality brands, as it’s you, our customers, who benefit from this long-term commitment to quality.
At Mikko Men’s, we know that when contemporary innovation meets heritage construction, a truly fine footwear result is achieved. Since day one, we have committed to long-wearing comfort - it’s our non-negotiable for every style we select.
Michaela and team
Mikko Shoes founder
Mikko Men’s is for the contemporary man who values quality, sophistication, and long-wearing comfort. Prioritising authentic craftsmanship, superior design, and the latest innovation, all of our footwear styles are hand-picked from artisan brands that we consider the best in the world.