Staying dry and comfortable

In this article, we highlight how shoemakers can manage moisture with SATRA’s STM 175 test equipment.

When it comes to comfort and performance footwear, moisture management is critical. The SATRA STM 175 permeability and absorption tester can help to prove that your footwear materials are fit for purpose.

Designed to simulate the conditions inside a shoe during wear, the STM 175 machine tests how well individual footwear materials and combinations of these are permeable to water vapour and the degree to which they absorb moisture. This ensures that perspiration does not linger, leading to discomfort for the wearer.

Whether you are developing footwear for sports, military, safety or outdoor markets, the STM 175 offers reliable, repeatable results to help you select and optimise materials that help to keep a wearer’s feet dry and comfortable.

Designed to conduct SATRA TM47:2019 – ‘Water vapour permeability and absorption’ (the latest version of the proven test method which was used to help develop the boots worn by the first successful Everest expedition in 1953), this machine brings trusted accuracy to every test.

Why choose the STM 175?

• assesses breathability and moisture dispersal of upper and lining materials
• simulates real-world in-shoe conditions for reliable performance insights
• helps to predict moisture discomfort and thermal loss
• compact, CE-marked and laboratory-ready
• supplied fully calibrated with accessories and a 12-month warranty.

In today’s competitive market, where performance comfort and user experience are paramount, do not let moisture be your ‘Achilles’ heel’.

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 16 of the October 2025 issue of SATRA Bulletin.

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