Footwear – Test methods for uppers and lining – Flex resistance
Material
Industry
Our laboratory performs testing according to DIN EN ISO 17694 under accredited conditions. This international standard specifies a method for determining the long-term flex resistance of upper materials and lining materials for footwear, as well as leather used in similarly stressed applications. The purpose of the test is to assess resistance to repeated bending or flexing loads, as typically occurring during real-life shoe use.
Test principle and procedure
For testing according to DIN EN ISO 17694, standardized specimens are taken from the respective material, folded in a defined manner, and fixed in a testing machine. The specimens are then subjected to repeated flexing along a defined folding line, thereby simulating the mechanical stress occurring during footwear use.
The test particularly reproduces the stress caused by repeated inward bending of the material, as typically occurs during walking. The material is subjected to a defined number of flex cycles.
Depending on requirements, different test conditions may be applied:
dry testing
wet testing (to simulate moist service conditions)