Timberland has recently signed on to use a new footwear weather proofing technology called ion-mask from UK company P2i. Set to debut in Spring 2011, the ion-mask technology will appear on 17 different canvas and leather footwear items including boots, shoes and even boat shoes for men.
P2i's ion-mask is a so called liquid repellent nano-coating that is applied as a protective layer over the entire shoe, including seams and fasteners. When water hits this coating, it beads up and simply rolls off instead of being absorbed.
Not only does the coating stop water getting in to your shoe but also encourages perspiration to flow out. As a result, your shoe will dry out more quickly, won't get heavy as the day goes on and keeps your feet comfortable and dry.
Other weather proofing technologies such as taped seams or applied chemicals supposedly lose their effectiveness quite quickly after initial use. The ion-mask coating, on the other hand, will allegedly last as long as the shoe material does and won't be compromised by everyday wear.
Since ion-mask repels water, the coating also helps repel dirt and stains, similar to Granger's after market footwear waterproofer . With P2i's ion-mask weather proofing technology, Timberland is now able to offer you a truly breathable, summer-weight canvas shoe that is also super water and stain repellent.
