Swiss perspectives in 10 languages

Swiss army fights battle of the blisters

The Swiss army is one step ahead in the search for a sock that will prevent its soldiers from getting blisters.

Sixty recruits have this week been testing a prototype of a sock that is aimed at reducing rubbing on toes and heels.

Researchers from the materials testing institute Empa and experts from the procurement and technology group armasuisse have been developing the sock, which is expected to be introduced from 2013.

The sock, containing various fibres around the toes and heel, features a wool mixture to soak up sweat.

It will also be used in the development of a new military boot, with both sock and boot being part of an armasuisse project called “New Footwear”. This is designed to be more practical, less heavy and comfortable.

swissinfo.ch and agencies

In compliance with the JTI standards

More: SWI swissinfo.ch certified by the Journalism Trust Initiative

You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here. Please join us!

If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.

SWI swissinfo.ch - a branch of Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR

SWI swissinfo.ch - a branch of Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR