An international jury of design experts awarded the prestigious Red Dot award for product design to the Slovene sports’ footwear manufacturer Alpina. The award was given to Alpina, d.d., Žiri for the Nordic racing boots ECS and ECL. The boots are a product of the combined work efforts of the head of the department of Nordic boots Robert Križnar, industrial designer Jure Miklavc and the design studio Kabinet 01.
Red Dot is an award that places Alpina amongst the world leading companies in the design and development of Nordic boots. This prestigious award recognizes the innovativeness, technological and design advancement as well as the sheer quality of Alpina’s footwear. The award has been handed out since 1955 and is considered to be one of the most important design awards. This year they received 3,203 applications from 51 countries, and the jury selected only the very best. Alpina is the third Slovene company to have the honor of receiving this award.
Alpina’s boots for classic (ECL) and skate technique (ECS) in Nordic skiing are made for top competitors in Nordic skiing and biathlon, as well as those Nordic skiers who desire the best. They are distinguished by a minimalist design that is applied to the spat of the shoe under which the inner shoe is hidden. The spat covers the surface of the boot completely and ensures water resistance as well as a perfect fit. The inner shoe is distinguished by the new lacing system, high quality materials and a foothold that is designed to the specifics of an individual competitor. This uncompromising boot ensures exceptional stability and a good transfer of power from the foot to the ski, without any loss of energy.
The footwear will be available in Alpina stores in the 2008/09 autumn/winter season.
Red Dot Design Awards are given in a number of different categories. Additional 2008 winners include Apple's renowned iPhone and Adidas' ID2 snowboard/ski/mountain bike goggles.
More information on the Red Dot Design Awards can be found at:
http://en.red-dot.org/design.html
