Van Dal innovatively introduced ion-mask™ technology into their brand just two and a half years ago, something that no fashion footwear brand had done to that point, with just sports brands such as Nike and Adidas introducing the technology. However, Van Dal's introduction of the product enhancing technology into their brand saw them create ladies shoes that looked no different but had far greater properties, including durability, breathability and water-repelling.

The ion-mask™ technology was first created by Dr Stephen Coulson who was asked to work on a project run by the Government's Defence Science & Technology Laboratory in the UK during the Gulf War. Coulson was asked to design a technology that would protect the clothing of soldiers during chemical attack, making them resistant to any penetrable liquids but retained their comfort.

Thus, ion-mask™ technology was evidently very hush hush during its early years, but in 2004, P2i Limited brought the advanced technology to the high street. Their aim was to allow high street brands to use this same technology to enhance the products customers were buying.

Van Dal began their work with the technology during 2008, and even though the technology was a proven benefit to clothing, it wasn't yet recognised widely on the high street. It had been used in the production of walking boots but not within fashion footwear.

Therefore, developing a relationship with P2i, Van Dal worked on introducing the technology into their shoes, and eventually set up a centre in which they could provide their shoes with the ion-mask™ treatment themselves (the only footwear brand to do this in the UK). Van Dal now treat thousands of pairs of shoes a week with this technology, with it being viable to use on many types of materials including suede and leather.

What is ion-mask™ technology?

The technology is used to treat materials so they repel water, but does not change the appearance of the materials surface.

The reason it isn't visible to the naked eye is because it is a nonometer thin polymer layer that covers the shoes surface. To put it into perspective, it is 1,000 thinner than a human hair! The polymer is created within a specialised vacuum chamber, creating a special plasma (pulsed ionised gas).

The surface energy of the shoe is then reduced, i.e. the stickiness of the shoe, and this means that when a liquid comes into contact with the surface of the shoe, it is turned into beads which subsequently roll off without being absorbed.

After they are treated the shoes will repel liquids, but retain their breathability which allows no liquid to be absorbed but allows the foot to continue to breathe during wear. It also reduces the risk of staining.

What are the benefits of ion-mask™ technology?

Breathable: Whilst a barrier is created that stops liquids being absorbed, natural airflow isn't prevented, so the foot is kept cool and comfortable.

Protective: Your feet and shoes are protected from water and other liquids by the technology, as Van Dal's leathers and suede's are water-repellent and stain resistant.

Durable: The shoes are even more durable as they are protected to make sure there is less risk of damage from stains and water.

Lightweight: As the polymer layer of the ion-mask™ technology is so thin, no additional weight is added to the shoe, keeping it lightweight and comfortable.

Environmental: The technology is solvent-free and minimal waste is created, which provides an environmentally friendly option.