A trail running shoe that encapsulates the best of the experience of Rossignol and its partners and extends the brand’s S/S 2025 range to include the simplest and purest form of mountaineering. Vezor is, in fact, a shoe with a precise fit, effective and very responsive cushioning, allowing you to run fast and on technical trails. Its design is inspired by the morphological structure of the wings of the dragonfly, to offer lightness, comfort and stability in the most rapid changes of direction. The combination of the new ultra resilient nitrogen injected foam and Diapazon+ technology gives the Vezor the right balance between energy return and stability. The Michelin sole, exclusively designed and engineered for Rossignol, features Formula technology, developed through motorsport experience, and guarantees impeccable grip on all terrains. Ideal for medium distances, Vezor will be a great ally of the most demanding trail runners, accompanying them during training sessions and high-intensity races. Its neon red colour evokes the Rossignol tradition and performance-oriented DNA.
VIDEO: Women’s catwalks S/S 2025 trend analysis
The Spring/Summer 2025 runways presented several key trends:
- Soft silhouettes: A remarkable return to relaxed, flowing shapes that prioritize comfort without sacrificing style.
- Bright colors: Bold, vibrant hues dominated the runway, reflecting a vibrant and optimistic palette.
- Sustainable fabrics: The emphasis on eco-friendly materials has highlighted the industry’s shift toward sustainability.
- Retro influences: Nostalgic designs from decades past have been reimagined, blending vintage aesthetics with modern sensibilities.
These trends reflect a blend of comfort, sustainability and a nod to the past in contemporary design.
Our Trend Analyst Mariacristina Rossi guides us to discover the major trends seen on the catwalks:
An area dedicated to innovation at Micam
Lucia Merlo Bags
A creative entrepreneur, visionary, with decades of experience in fashion and fashion design at big names in the sector, Lucia Merlo offers herself as a creative consultant in the design of designer products, accompanying the customer step by step in the process of creating a unique and unrepeatable piece, adapting it and thinking it up according to the style and needs of the wearer. Lucia Merlo bags are produced in a single version, unique in its combination of stitching, accessories and colours, and are not repeated a second time under any circumstances. Made from fine materials, exotic and non-exotic leathers, with quality accessories and hardware, they are created entirely by hand, in Milan, by craftsmen of excellence.
Maglow
The name originates from a neologism given by the words ‘mind’ and ‘aglow’ and indicates a brilliant and original way of thinking. The key words to define Maglow’s set of values and intentions are: modern craftsmanship, minimalism, made in Italy and sustainability. Upcycling at Maglow’s is made from high-quality, locally sourced materials from surplus stock or off-cuts, all combined with a made-to-order system that guarantees no waste and supports a circular production cycle. One example is the Ensemble bag: a luxurious bucket bag made by putting together leathers in different shades, textures and finishes, remodelled and stitched together in patchwork style and with handcrafted embellishments, such as visible stitching.
Naeita
A brand that fuses a passion for architecture with meticulous attention to detail, shapes and the use of sustainable materials, it offers collections made in Italy by master craftsmen, and with a refined aesthetic, supported by an environmentally conscious production process. Sustainability is a driving force behind the brand, which embraces a Slow Fashion philosophy, creating timeless collections destined to last. NAEITA’s creations blend geometric shapes and organic forms, creating sculptural and fluid designs in which functionality and elegance coexist harmoniously.
Supermateria
Founded by Lorenzo Banchini and Lorenzo Masini, Supermateria’s mission is to guide companies along the path of innovation, helping them identify the technologies best suited to their needs, integrating design creativity with the most advanced technological solutions. Supermateria is, in fact, a design studio that stands out for its innovation and continuous experimentation in the field of 3D printing and new technologies. Based in Florence, the team is made up of experts in additive manufacturing, robotics and computational design and combines high-level skills to offer advanced technological solutions tailored for companies. Thanks to its know-how, it is able to guide companies through the technological transition, providing solutions that combine artificial intelligence, algorithmic modelling and additive manufacturing to optimise production and industrial processes.
Unflock
Born in July 2022 with the mission to break free from standardisation, Unflock, combines in its name the term ‘UNLOCK’, meaning ‘to unlock’, with ‘FLOCK’, ‘flock’. At a time when consumerism pushes people to frequently change their shoes to follow the trends of the moment, Unflock has, in fact, developed an accessory that is inspired by the simplicity and functionality of smartphone covers and does so in a sustainable way. Made of high-quality, soft and flexible materials, Unflock offers exceptional comfort and is designed to fit any model and size of trainer, while also protecting them from wear and tear. Unflock’s innovation lies in the clips along the sole, designed to attach the accessory to the shoes without the use of glue, adhesives or laces, allowing Unflock to be applied and removed without compromising the aesthetics of the shoes. It not only improves their appearance, but also prolongs their life.
WhyOnlyWhite
WoW’s technology is based on Spatial Augmented Reality (SAR), an innovative approach that enriches physical reality with projected digital content, without the use of visors or smartphones. Using a patented tracking solution optimised with artificial intelligence (AI), the platform recognises the shape, size and position of any 3D object, instantly generating perfectly aligned projected images. This precise process enables a seamless fusion of the physical and digital worlds, creating the so-called ‘Phygital’ (Physical + Digital) object, where the tactile realism of the object is combined with the dynamism of the projection. The most innovative aspect of WoW lies in its ability to modify the appearance of a physical product in real time without altering its substance, allowing it to be touched and manipulated, but with a dynamic and customisable aesthetic. The platform also manages and stores the digital content required for projections, supports the generation of variants through AI-based algorithms, and records all changes made, thus improving the user profile and offering increasingly targeted solutions.
Huntsman launches AVALON® GECKO TPU
Huntsman has developed a new range of innovative, high-performing thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) materials for the footwear industry that offer game-changing possibilities for soling applications. The new AVALON® GECKO TPU portfolio offers a series of products that have exceptional grip and durability and have been developed with circularity in mind. Tailor made for use in high performance soling applications, the range includes an extrudable grade for creating super thin outsoles and a product that can be foamed to produce a very low density and super soft material with a unique touch and feel. Drawing inspiration from the extraordinary grip of geckos, products in the AVALON® GECKO TPU portfolio offer comparable slip performance to rubber in both wet and dry conditions. Ideal for outsoles of running, hiking and safety shoes, the new GECKO TPU portfolio contains products that are soft (shore 60-65A) yet highly durable with excellent abrasion resistance.
Gruppo Mastrotto: strategic step towards vertical integration in Automotive
Gruppo Mastrotto S.p.A. has acquired a majority stake in Coindu – Componentes Para A Indústria Automóvel, S.A., through a capital injection aimed at supporting the company’s relaunch. Founded in 1988 in Portugal, Coindu is a leading designer and manufacturer of high-quality leather and textile automotive interiors. The acquisition allows Coindu to become part of a Group, like Mastrotto, a leader in the leather sector, strengthening its financial and operational stability. For Gruppo Mastrotto, the transaction represents an important step towards vertical integration, increasing the company’s ability to provide complete solutions for car interiors and further consolidating its competitive position in the global market. Both companies aim to expand their presence in the luxury segments, using their combined know-how to meet the highest standards of premium customers in their respective sectors. The Gomes family will retain a minority stake in Coindu and the current management will continue to play a strategic role in the company after the transaction.
Together for a competitive, prosperous and resilient Europe
First launched in July, the Coalition has grown into a group of 43 business associations, all of them united by the shared idea that trade openness is a key driver to keep the EU competitive, prosperous, and resilient in the face of global challenges. According to the Coalition, trade openness must therefore become a top priority and veritable leitmotiv for the EU over the next five years. With 1 in every 5 jobs in the EU relying on exports, trade openness is a key driver of economic growth and job creation. Trade helps to attract foreign investments, fosters growth and innovation in the EU, and benefits consumers by increasing product choice. Importantly, trade diversification in sourcing and exports also enhances resilience, thus helping the EU to weather and overcome future crises.
Last October, during the confirmation hearings of the new EU Commissioners, the Open Trade Coalition reiterated its call for a bold and open trade policy. The coalition’s renewed Declaration features a number of specific policy recommendations, including the speedy adoption and implementation of all concluded trade agreements, the swift completion of ongoing trade negotiations, a proactive market access agenda to lower trade barriers, a fair and predictable trade environment supported by multilateralism, and a more robust trade diplomacy.
All steady for leather, textiles, synthetics and accessories. The numbers of a crisis that won’t end.
ITALY
Current (partial) estimates on the performance of the Italian tanning industry in the first half of 2024 show an overall decline of 3.1 percent in turnover and 2.7 percent in production volumes compared to the corresponding period last year.
After ending 2023 with a loss of 6.5 percent in value and 9.5 percent in volume, the current year has shown so far little change in the negative market trend for the industry and the entire leather supply chain. The persistent generalized consumer purchasing pain, particularly relevant for fashion and furniture goods (as compared to services and technology products, for example), originated from the inflationary wave
triggered in 2022 due to the post-Covid recovery and the onset of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, but it amplified during the past year and the early months of the current one, partly due to Middle East tensions and uncertain political forecasts in the EU (new EU Parliament and Commission, elections in some important member countries) and the US (presidential elections in November). The widespread climate of uncertainty is also holding back sales of high-end brands, which had been an important driver for the Italian tannery in recent years but are now suffering (almost) as much as other product ranges.
Italian export flows of leather also showed an overall decline, down 1.6% in value in the January-May 2024 period, compared with the same period last year. Despite the negative sign of total exports, the analysis of flows by main destination country registered differentiated trends, even of considerable intensity. Among the top 20 destination countries, Spain (+16%), China (+17%, including Hong Kong), Vietnam (+39%), Germany (+6%), Serbia (+6%), Mexico (+11%), South Korea (+3%) and India (+1%) grew, while Romania (-12%), the US (-4%), Tunisia (-13%), Portugal (-18%), Poland (-8%), Albania (-8%), the UK (-3%), Slovakia (-17%), the Czech Republic (-10%) and Turkey (as much as -42%) are falling. Stable was France, the first foreign destination for Italian leathers.
Analysis of the performances of the individual segments and production districts of the Italian tanning industry unfortunately highlights no exceptions to the negative picture mentioned above. In terms of production by animal origin, bovine leathers showed, on average, slightly less negative variations than sheep and goat leathers, while, in terms of client sector, difficulties appear widespread across all types of destination use. Declining are the turnovers of all major national tanning districts.
OTHER COUNTRIES
At the global level, monitoring the production of medium-large bovine leather in the first part of 2024 offers a broadly declining picture, both in the rest of Europe (with major losses in Germany, Portugal, Austria, and the United Kingdom, and milder decreases in France and Spain) and in the other world areas (again, sharp declines everywhere except China, which declares recovery, and Brazil, which registers moderate decreases). In the calf leather segment, negative average sign in France and positive in Spain, while for sheep and goat leathers the overview is more differentiated (China, Spain and France on the rise, the other main producers in the segment on the decline).
TEXTILES, SYNTHETICS AND LEATHER ALTERNATIVES
The first half of the year shows a general slowdown in the sector at the EU level, which closes in a deadlock over the previous six months tried due to weakness in the Germans and declines in the Italians despite the good performance of the French. Heavy declines for regenerated leather fibers, also bad the synthetic fabric materials. Sluggish dynamics in the synthetic.
ACCESSORIES AND COMPONENTS
Negative performance in 2024 partial, with all major EU manufacturers on the decline with the exception of the Romanians. At the segment level, thought double-digit declines affect other footwear parts, significant but more moderate losses for small metal parts and other accessories.
Milspeed joins Tecno Gi Group
TECNO GI Group, leading global footwear and leather goods reinforcements supplier, has acquired the assets and trade of Milspeed Ltd.
The new organization will set the pace for sustainable innovation within footwear industry components and will trade in the market of athletic shoes under the name of “MILSPEED INTERNATIONAL Ltd”.
Being part of a big international group represents significant benefits for business partners and customers, including:
– Improved production efficiency – utilizing Tecno Gi’s extrusion expertise will enable more efficient production in thicker counter products; faster production, less waste and cheaper end cost through supply chain purchase power;
– Expanded global network – Enhanced worldwide presence and distribution; The global network of Milspeed and Tecno Gi will enable greater technical sales support and faster communications along with regional manufacturing in Asia and Europe;
– Wider product range – combining the two companies’ areas of expertise will create a wider product range supporting diverse customer production requirements;
– Deep commitment to sustainability – including recycled and bio materials and lower CO2 emission products and processes. Production through efficient extrusion with Tecno Gi will enable Milspeed International to break even lower records of CO2 emissions, supporting your own sustainability goals.
Sneaknit: innovation, sustainability and quality for the future of footwear
Sneaknit’s goal is to offer solutions that not only improve the technical performance of uppers, but do so while minimizing environmental impact. Let’s look at some examples.
Technology: Filling Injection
Among the most cutting-edge technologies developed recently, the Filling Injection technique represents a real breakthrough in the world of footwear. This process makes it possible to fill with extreme precision, certain areas of the upper, to provide exceptional protection and comfort.
Filling Injection was designed and perfected in collaboration with companies in the sports and medical industries to provide advanced protection and optimal anatomical support for uppers and insoles.
Siphon Yarn: the multifunctional yarn
Another feather in Sneaknit’s cap is Siphon Yarn, a highly innovative yarn that lends itself perfectly to the manufacture of shoe uppers of all kinds. This material is distinguished by three key characteristics: it is water-repellent, stain-resistant and dustproof. Thanks to its structure, it lets water slide off the surface and prevents dust and stains from penetrating the fabric.
Siphon Yarn is not only a yarn with high technical performance, but also offers a pleasant soft and natural feel. Ideal for those seeking functionality without sacrificing comfort and design.
Recycled and Sustainable Materials
Sustainability is always central to Sneaknit’s value ladder. In addition to using recycled polyester, the company has expanded its range of yarns to include those from alternative sources, such as recycled paper and denim. This choice is an important step toward reducing waste and optimizing resource consumption.
Incorporating low-impact materials into production processes not only decreases energy consumption, but also contributes to making the entire production chain more environmentally responsible.
At Sneaknit, they are aware that the future of footwear cannot only deal with new style trends but is based on a continuous search for technological innovations, sustainable materials, and a constant focus on comfort and functionality.
TFL releases the Spring-Summer 2026 Catalogue
TFL has released its new TFL Colour Trends Catalogue for the season Spring Summer 2026.
In the catalogue, TFL presents the colour trends for leather garment, footwear, accessories and for the upholstery industry.
The colour trends are divided into “Wearing” and “Living”, devoting a section to each within the publication. Wearing comprises inspirations and colour trends for garments, footwear and accessories.
The Living section features all colours that will decorate the season’s interior designs.
In “Wearing”, TFL introduces a new sentimentality and elegance. Neutral shades, beiges and greys return to leather in general, from goatskin to nappa, and even nubuck, in a fresh colour palette and in water-repellent version.
Full-grain leathers see a forceful return to the 3D theme, enhanced by removable finishes. Moreover, bright shades dominate the mood of the season. The 1980s provide the inspiration for pearlescent and metallic finishes, antiqued with contrasting waxes, glossy wet coatings and glitter varnish. The washed-leather look is still very much alive, both in the full grain versions and in nubuck surfaces.
In “Living”, it will unlock the secret of “comfort”, an essential characteristic for any kind of furniture. Global players in the home furnishing sector see great advantages arising from the use of non-uniform natural leathers with genuine characteristics.
Free nature is the main theme of each collection, and the propensity to live well influences architects and interior designers to choose leathers that are extremely soft to the touch and have neutral shades, “slow washing” aspects and pouffes in all shapes, with dollaro and deerskin grains.
Homes are being designed to integrate nature and technology, with ample space for stylized and functional benches and chairs covered with impregnated splits.
The TFL Colour Trends catalogue is available now. For more details, please visit www.tfl.com.