Thermo-responsive Fabric: The outer layer of the toe pad will be made from poly(N-isopropylacrylamide), otherwise known as PNIPAM, treated cotton. PNIPAM is a type of shape memory polymer which when used to treat textiles, creates a “smart” textile that is responsive to different types of stimuli. PNIPAM specifically “undergo[es] a reversible phase transition in response to temperature change” where it shrinks at temperatures above 89.6 °F (Rengasamy, 2011). This is beneficial to the design as it allows the toe pad to conform to the dancer's foot and help alleviate friction and therefore blisters and other injuries.
Shock Absorption Material: The main component of the padding lies in the shock absorbing layer which will be made of Sorbothane, a polyether based polyurethane. Sorbothane “absorbs up to 94.7% of impact shock” without taking away the feel of the road for runners who use their insoles. This is applicable for this design for the similar reason of providing cushion without the dancer losing the feeling of the floor.
Wickaway Fabric: The wickaway fabric will be Merino wool. This was primarily chosen for its resistance to odor compared to other moisture-wicking fabrics such as polyester and nylon. It traps the smell to prevent it from emanating outwards. Moisture-wicking fabric also helps to elongate the lifespan of the pointe shoe by helping to prevent sweat from reaching the glue in the box, allowing the dancer to feel supported in their shoe for a longer period of time.