Description The Merino Marine Tech project was a transformative initiative to revolutionize performance footwear and gloves for the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team. The goal is to harness the unique properties of Merino wool to develop innovative grip rubber and durable knit materials while understanding the similarities between gloves and shoes. An eco-consciousness production process was developed by incorporating sustainable elements such as recycled sailcloth fibers and Merino wool byproducts. The resulting materials, Merino Marine Grip Technology and Merino Marine Knit Technology offer unrivaled grip, flexibility, and protection against the harsh marine environment. Through meticulous development, processes focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility. A collection of gloves and footwear were designed, with cutting-edge features tailored to the specific needs of sailors, promising to enhance performance and comfort during the demanding conditions of the America's Cup, considering grip, traction, thermoregulation, and protection. This way, the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team will be empowered with gear that maximizes performance and minimizes environmental impact.
Innovation
Introducing Merino Marine Technology: a groundbreaking innovation in performance footwear and gloves for the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team. Leveraging the exceptional properties of Merino wool, our materials offer unmatched grip, durability, and comfort. The Merino Marine Grip Technology combines Merino wool fibers with sustainable components like PLA and Keratin, ensuring superior traction and resilience in high-speed maneuvers. Meanwhile, the Merino Marine Knit Technology blends recycled sailcloth fibers with Merino wool yarns, delivering lightweight, flexible, and protective knit materials. Through sustainable development processes, we prioritize eco-friendly manufacturing and ethical sourcing, minimizing environmental impact. Our gloves feature grip pads for enhanced performance, while footwear incorporates drainage holes and a cycling shank for optimal functionality. With Merino Marine Technology, sailors can confidently tackle the rigors of the America's Cup, setting new standards in maritime sports gear.
Product Detail The Merino Marine Grip Technology: Material content: Merino Wool Fibers (35%), PLA(30%), Keratin and Chitosan (10%), Merino Wool Byproducts (Lanolin) (10%),
Genipin (5%).
The Merino Marine Knit Technology: Fiber content: 50% Recycled sailcloth fibers (nylon or polyester), 50% Merino Wool yarns.
Application: Footwear and Gloves
Bio Sara Valeri, born in Merida, Venezuela, immigrated to the US to pursue a BFA in Industrial Design at SCAD, igniting her passion for footwear design. After graduating in 2021, she joined a Pensole x New Balance masterclass, solidifying her interest in sports performance design. This resulted in her enrolling in a Master's in Sports Product Design at the University of Oregon; she interned at Under Armour, focusing on innovative modular cleats. As she nears graduation, Sara aims to revolutionize the sports industry, catering to diverse athlete needs and driving change through design.
