Oboz adds “super shoe” technology to its fast trail collection with Katabatic Wind

March 4, 2024

New Fast Trail hiker featuring a nitrogen-infused midsole and carbon fiber plate now available.

Bozeman, Mont. (March 4, 2024) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – Following last year’s successful introduction of the Katabatic fast trail hiker, Oboz the ‘True to the Trail’ outdoor footwear brand based in Bozeman, MT, has elevated the franchise for 2024 with the technically advanced and performance focused Katabatic Wind. Designed to go further, faster, the Katabatic Wind is for fastpackers and speed hikers who prioritize weight and technical performance, as well as for those who are on their feet all day and need something more durable and supportive than most modern running shoes.

“While remaining true to our hike design ethos of ensuring durability, comfort and support, we created a fastpacking ‘super hiker’ that is made for steep climbs and picking up pace on flat stretches of trail.” said Abigail Cook, Oboz Brand Marketing and ESG Manager. “The Wind rides the hike side of trail running and is designed to hold up to the rigors of the trail while upholding our high-performance standards.”

Oboz new proprietary Inertia of Motion (IOM) Carbon System sits at the heart of the Katabatic Wind. The purposely tuned IOM Carbon System features a forked carbon-fiber plate, dual-layer ACT Nitro midsole, and enhanced rocker profile. These components are engineered to reduce fatigue by working together to channel energy return and provide a stable ride on technical terrain. When compared to the current Katabatic, the Wind provides 2.3-2.5% more energy return per stride. The dual-density midsole features ACT Nitro, a nitrogen-infused foam that is lighter, resistant to packing out, and provides higher rebound. Additionally, the Wind is constructed with a tear-away Strobel last that places the insole directly on the midsole, for a lighter construction which maximizes underfoot cushioning and trail feel.

The Katabatic Wind has 8mm of heel rise and a Trail Tread outsole with 5mm deep lugs for superior traction. True Tread is Oboz most tested rubber compound and provides excellent slip-resistance on wet surfaces, enhanced durability, and improved elongation and tensile strength.

Reinforced welded overlays made with 25% recycled TPU, help protect feet from trail obstacles, while an integrated scree gaiter in the tongue keeps debris out of the shoe. There is a gaiter channel in the outsole under the arch and a loop at bottom of the laces to secure a gaiter for additional foot and leg protection.

In addition to the 25% recycled TPU overlays, the Katabatic Wind includes additional environmentally preferred materials. The abrasion-resistant, breathable mesh upper consists of 50% recycled Polyester. The shoe’s laces, cords, and webbing are all made with a minimum of 60% recycled Polyester.

The Katabatic Wind is available in colors Winter Gold and Raven for men and Sheepskin and Skylight for women. It retails for $185 and is available now at www.obozfootwear.com and at Oboz retailers worldwide.

About Oboz Footwear

Founded in 2007, Oboz Footwear builds ‘True to the Trail®’ outdoor footwear inspired by the vast 18-million-acre Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem surrounding the company’s Bozeman, Montana home. This rugged wilderness inspires Oboz to build shoes and boots that deliver unmatched fit, unrivaled feel and exceptional performance on any trail, anywhere. Oboz is a certified B Corp and to date, has planted over 5 million trees as part of its program to plant a tree for every pair of shoes sold. For more information, visit obozfootwear.com.