BLC News
Footwear problems on the rise
21st June, 2011
BLC has recently seen an increase in the number of footwear problems due to sole bond failures, when the sole comes away from the upper in use. This can have a number of causes, mainly relating to adhesive failure as a result of problems with footwear production processes or the adhesives themselves.
Other common problems associated with footwear include cracking, poor break, spue/bloom, mould and heel fatigue.
Footwear testing is essential to ensure footwear is safe and fit for purpose for consumers. The existence of a footwear testing regime prior to mass production and retail will help limit failure caused by poor design or faulty manufacture and also help to safeguard brand image and reputation. BLC can develop bespoke leather specifications to meet individual customer requirements. Clear performance specifications and structured leather and product testing can help to reduce leather product returns and improve customer satisfaction.
In addition to footwear safety, chemical , performance and quality testing, BLC also offers shoe fit assessments for children's, men's and women's footwear. Children's shoe fit assessments can also be carried out during school holidays.
BLC provides footwear testing for leather, components and whole shoes , at our UKAS accredited laboratory. Our test reports are easy to understand and when footwear fails a test, not only will we confirm why the test has failed, but also offer advice and solutions on how to avoid future failures.
BLC is one of the fastest testing laboratories in Europe, delivering results within 3-5 working days. With over 90 years experience in the footwear industry, we have the technical knowledge to assist with all footwear testing requirements.
BLC members receive 30% discount on testing, training and consultancy.
Please contact info@blcleathertech.com for all your footwear testing needs.
