Sole Technology Institute (STI)
The Biomechanics Of Skateboarding
Today, skateboarding is progressing at a phenomenal rate, and with this progression comes ever-increasing abuse and wear on the human body. In light of this, Sole Technology Institute (STI) was created. Sole Technology Institute is the world's first and only skateboarding-focused biomechanics research organization that tests and invents new technologies in order to develop the highest performing action sports footwear in the world.
Most of today's action sports footwear uses technology "borrowed" from other sports due to a lack of relevant research. Such an apathetic approach to shoe design can actually result in injury or - at the very least - shoes that don't deliver performance and durability. This approach would never be acceptable for the passionate experts at Sole Technology.
Skateboarders suffer countless foot-related injuries every year. Their feet are subjected to literally tons of force while skating. Maximum forces measured at the feet are as high as seventeen times body weight during skateboarding! STI uses a specialized Force Plate to measure impact - and in turn has developed skate-specific technologies like System G2™ to help absorb these incredible impacts.
Research conducted by STI has helped us develop a keen understanding of the heavy physical impacts associated with skateboarding and other action sports. Each day, our team carefully studies the intricate relationships between force, mass, velocity, resistance, grip and more. This knowledge helps the STI team to continually introduce innovations that shape the future of the action sports footwear industry.
STI's groundbreaking research helps riders around the world to experience, excel and enjoy their sport to a higher level. We believe our customers' feet and bodies deserve shoes that improve performance, enhance comfort, increase longevity and reduce the risk of injury.