Nike extends licencing deal for Cooper Standard elastomers

Northville, Michigan - Cooper Standard has announced an updated partnership deal with Nike Inc., including the expansion of a materials-technology agreement. 

Under the initial arrangement, reached in 2021, Cooper Standard licensed its Fortrex  elastomeric material platform for footwear applications to the sportswear major. 

The new agreement gives Nike “limited exclusivity” to use the proprietary materials for footwear and to develop new applications in other product lines, Cooper Standard said 30 Jan.

The materials are claimed to offer high elasticity and enable improvements in quality, durability, weight-savings, aesthetics and performance over competitive solutions. 

Fortrex is also said to reduce product-lifecycle carbon footprint versus traditional materials through the use of more sustainable feedstock and manufacturing processes.

According to Cooper Standard, carbon footprint reductions of 53% are possible versus EPDM, 22% versus TPVs and 43% compared to conventional shoe midsole foams. 

Fortrex “has the potential to make a significant impact for companies looking for sustainable material solutions," stated Chris Couch, president, fluid handling & chief technology officer, Cooper Standard.