# Kevlar-Infused Hiking Shoes The Oliver Sweeney Explorer Espadrille Has Been Improved By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2021-03-15 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oliver-sweeney-explorer-espadrille References: [blessthisstuff](https://www.blessthisstuff.com/stuff/wear/footwear/oliver-sweeney-explorer-espadrille/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blessthisstuff%2FEGlC+%28Bless+This+Stuff%29) & [oliversweeney](https://www.oliversweeney.com/us/explorers-espadrille-black-camo) The Oliver Sweeney Explorer Espadrille has been updated as part of the brands continued collaboration with adventurer Levison [Wood](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sea-salt-bergamot) and features a range of functions that will make them even more ready to meet the needs of explorers. The shoe was tested extensively to ensure it's ready to withstand the [harshest terrain on the planet](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mount-to-coast-t1) and features a [water-resistant black neoprene](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/waterproofshoe) camp material that will mold to the foot of the wearer. This is paired with a layer of Kevlar material on the insole to further enhance its protective nature when being exposed to demanding environments. The Oliver Sweeney Explorer Espadrille has an EVA midsole for enhanced comfort and buoyancy, while the Vibram sole is rated to be nonslip, puncture-proof and thorn-proof. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.2/10 - Popularity: 63% | Activity: 54% | Freshness: 10% - Audience gender: 90% men, 10% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/shoes) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Kevlar-infused Footwear:** Opportunities for footwear brands to create more durable and protective shoes by incorporating Kevlar material. - **Extreme Terrain Footwear:** Potential for companies to develop footwear specifically designed for harsh terrains and extreme environments. - **Collaborative Footwear Design:** Increased partnerships between footwear brands and adventurers to create products that cater to the needs of explorers and adventurers. ### Who This Affects Most - **Footwear Manufacturing:** Opportunities for footwear manufacturers to incorporate durable and protective materials in their products and cater to adventure seekers. - **Outdoor Sports and Recreation:** Potential for companies in the outdoor sports and recreation industry to develop specialized gear for extreme environments. - **Expeditions and Adventure Travel:** Opportunities for businesses in the expeditions and adventure travel industry to provide customers with durable and protective footwear to ensure their comfort and safety. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Kevlar-Infused Hiking Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/huckberry-x-danner-n45-low-hiking-sneaker.md) - [Kevlar-Constructed Trail Runners](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/naglev-veloce.md) - [Tactical Kevlar Trail Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/salewa-wildfire-nxt-goretex.md) - [Durable Hyper-Lightweight Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/deckers-x-lab-enduro.md) - [Dynamic Glowing Trail Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jungle-esc.md) - [Ultra-Cushioned Hiking Footwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hiking-sneaker.md) - [Abrasion-Resistant Running Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/trail-running.md) - [Earthy Toned Waterproof Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/targhee-iv.md) - [Eco-Conscious Hiking Shoes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/targhee-apex.md)