Vietnam-based innovation company Cirql has introduced Cirql Zero, an industrially compostable and biodegradable foam innovation designed for midsole components in footwear. The product debuted at ISPO Munich as part of the “Disappearing Shoe” concept, which is a finalist for the ISPO BrandNew Award.

Cirql Zero is said to mark a significant advancement in sustainable materials for the footwear industry, addressing both production efficiency and end-of-life environmental impact. It offers two end-of-life solutions: recyclability through rTPU30, which incorporates 30% post-consumer recycled content, and industrial compostability. The latter meets the stringent standard of 90% degradation within 180 days. This innovation leverages a proprietary polymer compound and supercritical foaming technology, enabling scalability to hundreds of millions of shoes annually.

“Footwear brands have long sought a fully biodegradable midsole material that maintains performance properties. Cirql Zero fulfills this need, offering a price-competitive, scalable solution,” said Matt Thwaites, Cirql’s Vice President and General Manager.

The shoe will be showcased at Cirql’s booths in Hall A2, Stand 426 and Hall B2, Stand 100-38, with the award winner to be announced on December 4.