ELKTON, Md.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., has introduced a footwear technology for the U.S. military with optimized breathability in extended climate ranges. Specifically designed for hot climate conditions, GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort Footwear protects feet from exposure to rain and inclement weather, while allowing moisture vapor to escape from the boot, keeping feet dry and more comfortable. Boots made of this construction also pick up less water and dry out faster, in addition to reducing boot weight.

With a single-wall construction, GORE-TEX® Extended Comfort Footwear has been engineered specifically to ensure maximum breathability without compromising durable waterproof performance. Unlike other jungle or hot weather footwear, boots with this new technology have proven to provide waterproof protection and breathable comfort. Lab tests showed that these new boots retained 90 percent less water than comparable boots and that breathability over time was excellent. In field tests, participants perceived that these boots kept feet as cool as both the current desert boot and the temperate weather boot.

This new technology provides the opportunity to have one pair of boots for the widest range of climate conditions. According to Bill Candy, Gore’s North American footwear product specialist, Gore works closely with each manufacturer as each new boot design is developed. Candy explains, “We work with our customers to deliver the best product for their intended application, which in this case was to increase the comfortable climate range, particularly on the warm to hot side, of waterproof boots. We also work with customers to understand their requirements, develop a solution, and test the final designs to ensure that each product meets the unique environmental challenges that the military is faced with today.”

PORTLAND, Ore., Sep 01, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) — LaCrosse Footwear , a leading provider of premium, branded footwear for work and outdoor users, today announced that it has received a new $8.6 million delivery order from the U.S. Army for the Danner Combat Hiker boot. The Company anticipates delivering this order of the Combat Hiker boot within the next 90 days for soldiers in Afghanistan.

“The United States Army’s request for more of our Combat Hiker testifies to the boot’s proven performance in the field,” said Joseph P. Schneider, President and CEO of LaCrosse Footwear, Inc. “In recent years, we’ve been working closely with the U.S. Army to develop and provide footwear for extended wear and high performance in harsh mountain terrain and challenging weather conditions. We remain focused on combining our deep understanding of what soldiers need with our expertise in innovative product engineering, unique manufacturing capabilities and a passion for our craft. We are proud to support the men and women who serve our country.”

Danner provides premium performance footwear built to meet the demands and specific requirements for multiple branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. The Danner Combat Hiker is a full-grain leather hiker designed with a rugged Vibram(R) outsole for traveling over uneven terrain while carrying heavy loads, a breathable Gore Tex(R) lining and a rubber rand surrounding the entire lower boot to protect against abrasion and damage from rock and scree. The Combat Hiker is also shorter than standard issue military boots in order to provide greater mobility during steep ascents and descents. These boots will be produced in the Company’s new world-class manufacturing facility located in Portland, Ore.

You can purchase Danner Combat Hikers, as well as other Danner boots, on our website simply by clicking HERE