Sunriver, OR — Walkabout International — maker of DownUnders(tm), the only dynamically designed over-the-counter orthotic footbeds — has developed a lower profile heat-molded natural cork orthotic footbed, the Thin-Cork CRK02. For skiing, hiking, skating, mountaineering, walking or standing on your feet all day at work, the new Thin-Cork CRK02 fills less space inside the shoe or boot than the original Thermo-Cork CO1. For consumers, this means hand-fit, custom footbed comfort and performance in lower-volume footwear. And for retailers, the Thin-Cork requires less grinding and shorter molding times than the thicker CO1, and it gives snowboard, telemark, skating, classic, alpine, AT, hiking and other performance footwear a true custom fit, making the sale for harder to fit customers.

"The Thin-Cork CRK02 offers boot fitters and sales staff another affordable option for custom-fit orthotic footbeds," says Ted Beavers, president, Walkabout International. "Customers who lack support — and the volume inside their footwear to enjoy our original CO1 heat-molded 'bucket seats for your feet' — can now use the Thin-Cork to deliver the dynamic fit and performance of the most technologically advanced orthotic footbeds available."

The Thin-Cork CRK02 boasts all the unique biomechanical, dynamic design features that set DownUnders apart:

*Deep Heel Pocket: the deepest heel pocket of any "over-the-counter" orthotic footbeds enhances foot function, stabilizing motion while simultaneously moving dynamically with both the wearer's feet and footwear.
*Dynamic Dubble Bubble(tm): anatomically placed bubbles in the heel and forefoot absorb shock for ankle and heel comfort that moves with you each time weight is applied the dynamic cradling action creates a deeper, narrower and more supportive shape.
*Honeycomb Heel Stabilizer: provides long lasting durability while molding to both foot and shoe contours.
*Full-Length Tear Drop(tm): encourages foot alignment and balance for optimum comfort and support.
*Forefoot Inserts: add stability and cushioning under toes.
*Top Cover: insulates the foot from heat/cold, wicks moisture to keep feet dry and comfortable.

"Inside Tracks, The consumer guide for serious skiers," recently selected DownUnders for its "Gear Of The Year: Our Picks Of Top Products For 2001." In the December 2001 issue, IT writes: "In our opinion, no other product — for fit, comfort and performance — comes close."

Walkabout International makes a complete line of over-the-counter and heat-molded orthotic footbeds for all sports and activities. The company's dynamic designs are the work of footwear pioneer Sven Coomer, who continues to develop the most technologically advanced orthotic footwear in the world.

— Posted by Ari Cheren, MountainZone.com Staff