Athletic Footwear for Initial Military Training (IMT)

Athletic Footwear for Initial Military Training RFI: The U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development, and Engineering Center is conducting a market research investigation for athletic footwear to be worn by recruits participating in Initial Military Training (IMT). The goal of this effort is to identify firms with capabilities to provide/design/develop athletic footwear for use by recruits in various terrain and in a wide range of environmental conditions (both fair and inclement), to include running on paved roads, running on un-improved trails, negotiating obstacle courses, and conducting circuit style weight training. Interest is in readily available product(s) or developmental items that will be commercially available within the next six months (must be based on a concise and attainable development/commercialization plan). The athletic footwear must be capable of meeting critical technical requirements as follows: 1) Durable enough to last for over 12 weeks of heavy use during IMT; 2) Designed to reduce pressure points, discomfort, or irritation during walking/running on uneven, rugged terrain throughout the useful life of the item; 3) Does not interfere with normal walking/running or reduce Soldier performance and capability to move through varied terrain; 4) Breathable, to allow for air to circulate around the foot when worn; 5) Wicks moisture away from the foot and dries quickly; 6) Resistant to degradation due to fungus and bacteria; 7) Provide impact attenuation when walking/running; Interested sources shall, within thirty (30) days following this posting, respond with information on their current product(s) and how they address the requirements listed above. Interested sources shall include five (5) production quality samples (Men's size 10, D width) and detailed information regarding their firm's personnel, facilities and production capabilities, relevant company background/experience. If a firm chooses to submit samples, NO payment will be made by the Government for such samples. Firms shall submit the following information for each style of production sample provided: 1) Retail and/or wholesale pricing 2) Whether the firm has the capability to produce the submitted footwear style domestically, i.e. Berry Amendment compliant 3) List of available sizes (lengths and widths) a. Whether the footwear style is available in both Men's and Women's sizes b. Whether Women's sizes are manufactured using female-specific lasts or lasts also used to manufacture Men's sizes 4) If applicable, classification of the samples as "Neutral/Cushioned", "Stability", or "Motion Control", as well as the intended user and use for each shoe style (i.e. high, normal, or low arch; user weight; running service; etc.). 5) Independent laboratory test results for the following test methods (if available): a. Whole Shoe Slip Resistance Test (ASTM F 2913 or equal) b. Impact Attenuation for Soling Systems and Materials (ASTM F 1976 or equal) c. Outsole Wear from Walking (SATRA STM-528 or equal) d. Dry Shoe Flex Durability (SATRA TM-92 or equal) e. Dynamic Footwear Stiffness Index, Longitudinal and Torsional (SATRA STM-507 or equal) f. Moisture Management using Sweating Foot (SATRA STM-567 or equal) g. Compression Set (ASTM D 395 or equal) h. Weight/mass per shoe i. Any other test results the firm wishes to submit This notice is for market research purposes only. Responses to this notice are to be sent to Mr. Jay McNamara, U.S. Army NSRDEC, Bldg 4, D-323, 15 General Greene Avenue, Natick, MA 01760-5019. This is NOT a request for quotations. No solicitation document exists. The information received under this announcement may be used to purchase items for Government testing and/or to develop a science and technology research strategy. Email your questions to Natick Soldier Research, Development, and Engineering Center at Jay.McNamara.civ@mail.mil. Point of Contact: Mr. Jay McNamara 508-233-6913 Jay.McNamara.civ@mail.mil