OrthoLite Develops the First Nearly 50 Percent Bio-Based, Customizable Insole Foam

AMHERST, Mass., March 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- OrthoLite, the world's leading provider of open cell foam insoles, has announced the development of a revolutionary customizable, molded insole and lining foam called OrthoLite Impressions. The first-of-its-kind open cell foam, which incorporates nearly 50% bio-oil in its formula, also serves as the company's most renewable product to date.

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OrthoLite Impressions foam is the company's first product that creates customized fitting for every consumer.  OrthoLite Impressions creates initial step-in comfort and then molds to the shape of the foot as it is worn to create a customized fit system inside the shoe.

"OrthoLite Impressions will provide a unique, custom fit feeling that is unlike any foam we've ever produced," proclaimed Pamela Gelsomini, President. "The development of OrthoLite Impressions comes from our company's increasing focus on creating more sustainable products. We are extremely proud of this new foam technology and we know our customers will be proud to use it."

Along with unmatched comfort, OrthoLite Impressions is pioneering in terms of sustainability. OrthoLite Impressions replaces the petroleum based PU with nearly 50 percent bio-oil PU through the utilization of castor oil, a non-food plant source that shows significant ecological advantages in terms of energy and resource consumption, according to PU Magazine.

To further underscore OrthoLite's leadership in producing sustainable products, CEO Glenn Barrett will be a featured speaker at the World Biofuels Markets in Rotterdam, Netherlands on March 22. Barrett will be the only representative from the footwear industry speaking at this prestigious event.

OrthoLite Impressions is currently in development with the world's top footwear brands for both insoles and lining foams. OrthoLite Impressions is set to appear in footwear in spring 2012.

About OrthoLite: OrthoLite, headquartered in Amherst, MA, is the world's leading supplier of open cell foam insoles found in more than 100 million shoes each year including, Asics, New Balance, Merrell, Nike, Puma, Vans and Timberland. OrthoLite combines polyurethane and recycled rubber to provide superior cushioning, comfort, breathability and durability.  OrthoLite insoles can now be purchased through a partnership with Amazon. For every pair of insoles sold, OrthoLite will donate $1 to the Level Field Fund, a grant-giving program that strives to bridge gaps in funding to uniquely talented athletes. To purchase insoles or for more information, please visit www.ortholite.com.

SOURCE OrthoLite