CoolFeel: Footwear Lining Design Providing a Cooling Sensation through Dual-Component Finishing

Baris Bekiroglu

Eren Perakende ve Tekstil A.Ş.

https://orcid.org/0009-0001-4010-6956

Mustafa Yener

Eren Perakende ve Tekstil A.Ş.

https://orcid.org/0009-0004-0342-6557

Sumeyra Demirtas Ozkaya

Devanlay Eren Tekstil San. Tic. A.S.

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4332-035X

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56038/oprd.v6i1.641

Keywords: Cooling footwear, Functional textile, Temperature regulation, Dual-component finishing, Consumer comfort


Abstract

The CoolFeel project introduces an innovative footwear lining design that provides a tangible cooling sensation, enhancing user comfort in hot weather or during intense physical activity. This design incorporates the Cool In dual-component finishing system developed by Proneem, applied via spray coating onto the surface of the shoe lining. The treatment is mechanically activated and engineered to generate a localized temperature-reducing effect under humid conditions.

The project aims to integrate this technology into footwear manufacturing processes while ensuring material compatibility, production efficiency, and consumer-level performance. Laboratory evaluations conducted before and after repeated washing cycles revealed that the treated lining maintains similar absorption speed compared to untreated samples, yet demonstrates superior moisture diffusion rates (up to 1.37 times faster when unwashed) and infrared-measurable surface temperature reduction of up to 1.4°C. Even after ten washing cycles, the system retained moderate performance with a 0.5°C temperature drop and over 1.07x faster diffusion rate. CoolFeel represents a sustainable and consumer-driven innovation that addresses thermophysiological discomfort in footwear. It offers a viable solution for brands seeking to differentiate through functional design and enhanced user experience, particularly in warm climates and performance-driven market segments.


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