Several leading sock companies will launch a bevy of innovative technologies, featuring COOLMAX(R) fabric for spring/summer '08 at The Running Event, an industry expo and conference for specialty retailers in Austin, Texas. Additional new technologies will also combat blisters and odors and boost comfort from heel to toe, for everyone from weekend warriors to marathon runners.

Designed for extreme conditions, Injinji's Performance Series tetratsok is engineered with AIS (Anatomic Interface System) technology, constructed with an inner lining of COOLMAX(R). As the only five-toe sock certified to use COOLMAX(R) fabric, the tetratsok manages moisture in the toe box. According to General Manager Jan Kimbrell, the unique and patented construction is designed to mold to the foot's contours, increase tactile sensitivity, massage pressure points, improve circulation and eliminate blisters.
   
Blisters are also an injury of the past with Feetures! patented Coolfeet Ventilation System made from COOLMAX(R) fabric with freshFX(TM) fiber and its seamless PerfectToe(TM). The system provides 360° mesh ventilation for maximum air flow and breathability while a hand-linked seamless toe provides maximum comfort. Plus, power bands of LYCRA(R) fiber hug the foot and keep socks in place while the freshFX(TM) fiber keeps odors under wraps.
   
The originator of activity-specific foot protection sock products, THOR*LO, Inc.'s latest entry is a thin COOLMAX(R) sock that provides superior wicking characteristics while offering the most padding available in a lightweight construction, according to Marketing Director Jeff Lawson. Lightweight yet dense terry padding has been added to the ball and heel for extra protection, and lightweight padding in the arch provides protection and a better fit. "Combining COOLMAX(R) fabric with Thorlo's construction has produced a very successful running foot protection sock product that offers tremendous comfort and function," Lawson says.
   
New Balance Performance socks, a licensed brand of Gold Toe Moretz, will introduce Mesh No Show with COOLMAX(R) Extreme fabric, for maximum moisture management. This sock features compression arch support for stability, reinforced heel and toe, comfort toe seam and a Y-shaped heel, which provides a deep pocket for a perfect fit, according to Vice President of Marketing Ander Horne.
   
Gold Toe Moretz also produces PowerSox with COOLMAX(R) Everyday fabric that features a seamless toe to keep irritation at bay and a cushioned sole for shock absorption. PowerSox also offers a compression arch support and Y- heel for stability and a better fit.
   
Using a blend of COOLMAX(R) fabric and Cordura(R) yarn, DeFeet's high-performance Cloud 9 running socks combine the amazing moisture wicking of COOLMAX(R) fabric with the incredible abrasion resistance of Cordura(R) yarn. DeFeet's product development team was highly impressed with INVISTA's abrasion test results, and decided to create a unique blend for its first targeted running sock in 15 years. "Not only is it durable, it feels like butter! People say it's as soft as a cloud, which is the reason it's called Cloud 9," says Shane Cooper, founder of DeFeet.
   
Sof Sole is also putting its customer's feet first with its new Anti- Friction Performance Sock, which combines slip-resistant technology and COOLMAX(R) fabric for ultimate comfort and stabilization. The product features ThinVent(TM)construction on top to keep feet cooler, a reinforced arch band for improved fit and support below the ankle. Sof Sole's Anti-Friction sock also has a hand-linked seamless toe and deep heel pocket to enhance fit.
    
About INVISTA
   
INVISTA is an integrated fibers and polymers business with a global presence. It operates four major businesses: Apparel; Intermediates; Performance Surfaces and Materials; and Polymer and Resins. INVISTA delivers exceptional value for its customers through market insights and technology innovations, along with a powerful portfolio of some of the most
recognized global brands and trademarks in their respective industries including: ADI- PURE(R), ANTRON(R), AVORA(R) FR, INVISTA(R) C12, COMFOREL(R), COOLMAX(R), CORDURA(R), CORFREE(R), DACRON(R), INVISTA(R) DBE, DYTEK(R), ESP(R), FRESHFLEX(TM), CORDURA(R) NYCO, LYCRA(R), PERFORMA(R), POLARGUARD(R), POLYSHIELD(R), POLYCLEAR(R), SOLARMAX(R), STAINMASTER(R), SUPPLEX(R), SUPRIVA(TM), TACTEL(R), TACTESSE(R), TERATE(R), TERATHANE(R) and THERMOLITE(R).