PORTSMOUTH, N.H., April 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- MBT (www.mbt.com), the originator and continued leader of physiological footwear, announced today a partnership with the Jelly Belly P/B Kenda Cycling Team in the 2011 Amgen Tour of California, the largest cycling event in the United States. MBT, in its third year of participation in the Tour of California, will serve as the official off-bike footwear brand for the Jelly Belly P/B Kenda team, which has been sponsored by the Jelly Belly Candy Company for the past 12 years, making it the longest-running title sponsorship in U.S. cycling history.

Because MBT's focus has always been to promote an active, healthy lifestyle, the company's involvement in the Tour of California is a natural fit.  MBTs' unique design helps activate the entire body off the bike in a way no other shoe can.

In an increasingly crowded physiological footwear category, MBT has set itself apart as the originator and has continued to lead the way through superior styling and innovations. The company developed an unstable sole construction that simulates walking barefoot on soft natural ground. MBT's patented technology can help to enhance the natural physiological framework and balance of the body.

As a sponsor of Team Jelly Belly P/B Kenda, MBT will provide each of the 13 team members two pairs of MBTs—the Mahuta Blue and Jawabu Black—to be worn off the bike during the eight-day Amgen Tour of California. The eight-stage race, set for May 15–22, will feature top-level riders from around the world.

"MBT is proud and excited to be sponsoring the Jelly Belly P/B Kenda Cycling Team this year," said David Ludd, MBT's Marketing Director. "As the leader in the physiological footwear arena, supporting individuals in their pursuit of an active lifestyle is what we're about, and the members of Team Jelly Belly are great role models for healthy living."

About MBT

More than 15 years ago, MBT designed a shoe that would change the world. All these years later, we're still at it. As originators in the physiological footwear category, MBT offers active, stylish footwear that is inspired by nature, grounded in biomechanical principles and powered by patented technology. Employing quality materials, craftsmanship and construction, MBTs are designed to help support the natural physiological framework and help improve balance. MBTs are a Class 1 Medical Product in the 30 EEA states (European Economic Area) and Switzerland. They are granted a Medical Device Establishment License by Health Canada and are a certified Medical Device in Australia (TGA). MBT is now available in more than 55 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.mbt.com.

SOURCE MBT