Biodegradable Board

BiomSurfboards hit the waves, but if a board breaks or pieces chip off those can remain at sea for years and years. However, designers from Netherlands – not exactly a region thought of for surfing – has created the Bióm, the world’s first certified 100 percent biodegradable and 99 percent biodegradable bio-based surfboard foam. The material is produced via locally abundant sugarcane biomass that is polymerized and expanded into rigid foam, while the foam further boasts the ultra-eco use of benign CO2 as the sole blowing agent in the expansion process.

This foam will be used in stand up paddleboards, wakeboards, skimboards, kiteboards, and other types of watercraft.

Bióm Official Website
[Via Surfer Today: The world’s first 100% biodegradable surfboard foam]

New Running Shoes Go the Distance

The new BIOM running shoes from ECCO are designed with durable materials to last up to 1.5 times longer than EVA, which is currently used in many other shoes. As a result the BIOM can go the distance, and thanks to the innovation that utilizes biomechanics with the help of University of Cologne, these shoes might help you go the distance as well.

These shoes are inspired by barefoot runners, and ECCO worked on the concept for more than three years, scanning foot profiles of more than 2500 runners to create a replica of the human foot. To date the BIOM is the only shoe on the market that uses a “direct-injection process” to increase the durability of the shoe. Additionally the BIOM features a wide “toebox” design to ensure that the wearer’s toes can spread naturally making for a comfortable fit. The BIOM feature high-traction rubber outsold components to improve grip while making for a lightweight shoe.

Currently there are two models available with a third in development. The BIOM A is produced using traditional textile mesh that allows for greater ventilation and is thus a great “summer” shoes; while the BIOM B utilizes breakable yak leather that offers increased durability. We’ll be curious where the C model fits in, as it could go the distance and more.

BIOM Official Website