Olivia R. July 18, 2019
Immortals Gaming Club has partnered with K-Swiss to create the first-ever esports performance shoe.
The ONE-TAP is designed specifically with pro gamers in mind, after K-Swiss designers had the chance to watch the organization's players compete. The shoe's main focuses are comfort, versatility, and temperature control. With breathable mesh and elasticated closure, the shoe can be slipped on just like a slipper. The cushioned sole and venting unit creates bidirectional airflow in warmer temperatures. When in cooler environments, players can stay cozy with the wool-lined insole.
K-Swiss president Barney Waters said that esports are just like any other traditional sports in that "physical and psychological preparation breeds excellence in performance, exactly what the ONE-TAP offers.”
Immorals CEO Ari Segal admitted to Yahoo Finance that there have been many people skeptical about comptitive gamers needing special performance shoes. He stated that some people may not know what "performance" means in that case. It's just another way to put a player or team "in a position to play better and to play to win."
“If a player in any sport is doing something that detracts from their focus on the task at hand, they're not going to be performing their best," Segal said.
By designing a shoe with gamers in mind, a shoe that looks cool, he continued, the players will be able to feel good in them. They'll feel special and comfortable. This will lead to better performances.
Starting yesterday, limited pairs of the MIBR ONE-TAP will be available on K-Swiss' website. Retailing for $125, select buyers will be invited to share their input on the shoe after participating in a beta program.
The collected feedback will then be used to finalize the shoe, which will be officially released in 2020.