Covestro and Silan help Xtep to create its first low-carbon running shoe concept

• Covestro is exploring low-carbon solutions for sports shoes using mass-balanced MDI, TDI, TPU, and other functional materials
  

• Each concept running shoe can reduce carbon emissions by more than 80 percent, with plans to officially launch next year
  

The innovative low-carbon running shoe is produced using Covestro’s ISCC PLUS certified Desmodur® CQ MDI and TDI – both key polyurethane precursors – and Desmopan® CQ thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Compared to products using traditional fossil-based raw materials, each concept running shoe can reduce carbon emissions by more than 80 percent. The running shoe concept will be mass-produced and launched in 2023, and Xtep is further planning to apply Covestro mass-balanced materials to additional categories and products in 2024.

In the mass balance approach, raw materials derived from biomass or biogenic wastes or residues are introduced at an early stage of raw material extraction and mathematically attributed to the finished products. This process reduces the use of fossil-based raw materials, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

John Dou, Vice President of MDI sales for Asia Pacific at Covestro’s Performance Materials segment, said: “Mass-balanced polyurethane materials such as MDI, TDI, and TPU offer broad prospects for application. Covestro is committed to working with partners across all parts of the industry chain to explore applications in various fields and scenarios, while actively providing customers with low-carbon solutions that create value and promote the sustainable development of the industry.”

Edwin Wu, Head of Sales and Market Development of Covestro’s Thermoplastic Polyurethanes segment in Greater China, said: “The successful development of Xtep’s low-carbon running shoe demonstrates the excellent performance of mass-balanced Desmopan® CQ TPU products when it comes to multifilament mesh fabrics, shoe uppers, midsoles, and supporting pieces. Covestro looks forward to working with more value chain partners to develop more sustainable TPU solutions.”

As one of the primary sports brand sponsors of marathon events in China, Xtep is dedicated to operating at “China Speed” in terms of its environmental protection strategy. Its low-carbon concept running shoes are lighter, more wear-resistant, and more breathable than competitors therefore ensuring comfort and performance, thanks to the use of Covestro’s ISCC PLUS verified TPU in the upper and midsole structure. This material application helps Xtep create its very first low-carbon marathon shoes and achieve goals towards sustainability.

“I am incredibly pleased to see that Xtep is working with Covestro and Silan to explore the field of low-carbon, and high-performance materials, which is consistent with the sustainable development goals of all parties involved,” said Tian Zhong, CEO of Xtep brand. “Xtep will continue to work on solutions that promote its carbon neutral ambitions and address consumers’ rising environmental awareness. The signing of this project agreement highlights our expectations for a brighter and more sustainable future.”

Covestro and Silan help Xtep to create its first low-carbon running shoe concept. © Covestro

“Silan is proud to join hands with Covestro and Xtep Group to explore the innovative development and application of mass-balanced materials in the field of sports shoes,” said Ding Zongyin, Chairman of Silan Group. “This agreement has further deepened our 20-year strategic partnership with Covestro, and is significant in both promoting the development of a circular economy and achieving China’s carbon neutral ambitions.”

With the theme of “Together for a climate-neutral future”, Covestro’s exhibition at CIIE 2022 will demonstrate the company’s leadership in the circular economy through its advanced materials, solutions, technologies, and partnerships, as well as its commitment to promoting sustainability across multiple key industries.