The Amphibian beach shoe has been designed by Edward Shelton to help lifeguards swim faster towards any swimmers in distress. He designed, developed, and tested the flippers alongside the Royal National Lifeboat Association (RNLI) and Loughborough Lifesaving Club.
Wearing the shoe, lifeguards can run to the water’s edge and quickly convert the beach shoes into flippers. The flippers have carbon fibre blades providing increased propulsion and a unique retraction system offering the lifeguard improved flexibility, control, and speed throughout the rescue process.
Innovative Design and Functionality
The Amphibian beach shoe stands out due to its innovative design and functionality. The carbon fibre blades are not just for show; they significantly enhance the lifeguard’s swimming efficiency by providing powerful thrusts with each kick. This is crucial during rescue operations where every second counts. The unique retraction system allows the flippers to be easily deployed and retracted, ensuring that lifeguards can transition seamlessly from running to swimming without losing precious time.
If needed, the flippers can be detached from the shoes for extra comfort when a lifeguard is not on their shift. The fin module heel clip system can quickly be adjusted to fit sizes from 5 to 13 UK, holding the shoe securely in place and can be easily removed for cleaning and maintenance. They are constructed from 10% glass-filled Nylon 66 body moldings, which provides flexibility and spring when running but stiffness when swimming.
Practical Benefits for Lifeguards
The practical benefits of the Amphibian beach shoe extend beyond its primary function of aiding in water rescues. For instance, the ability to detach the flippers means that lifeguards can wear the shoes comfortably throughout their shift without the cumbersome feel of traditional flippers. This dual functionality ensures that lifeguards are always ready to respond to emergencies without compromising on comfort or performance.
Moreover, the adjustable fin module heel clip system is a game-changer. It allows for a customized fit, accommodating a wide range of foot sizes. This feature is particularly beneficial in a team setting where multiple lifeguards might need to use the same equipment. The ease of cleaning and maintenance further adds to the practicality, ensuring that the shoes remain in top condition and ready for use at all times.
The construction material, 10% glass-filled Nylon 66, is another highlight. This material is known for its durability and resilience, making it ideal for the demanding conditions lifeguards often face. It provides the right balance of flexibility and stiffness, ensuring that the shoes perform well both on land and in water.
The Amphibian beach shoe is a remarkable innovation that addresses the specific needs of lifeguards. Its thoughtful design, combined with practical features, makes it an invaluable tool for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of water rescues. By collaborating with organizations like the RNLI and Loughborough Lifesaving Club, Edward Shelton has ensured that the product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability.
Via Yanko Design
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