Thursday, August 12, 2010

Now exhibiting at a show near you

September is shaping up to be a busy month for Bates and we're hitting the road to visit many shows.  Stop by and say hello! We'll be featuring the latest styles and technology as well as a chance for you to win a free pair of Bates.

See below for a show near you:

September 10-11, Virginia Beach, VA               
New Breed Warrior Expo                            

September 14-15, Columbus, OH                
Enforcement Expo                                        

September 14-15, Columbus, GA                
Infantry Warfighting Conference                    

September 15-16, Ft. Leonard Wood, MO                 
Military Police Regimental Association           

September 28-30, Quantico, VA                
Modern Day Marine                                     

October 23-27, Orlando, FL                   
IACP         
                                               
October 25-27, Washington D.C.                   
AUSA                                                      

We look forward to seeing you there!

C3 To Beat the Summer Heat

Are you looking for a boot to cool your feet during these hot August days?

Our new patented C3 technology works great to cool feet and give you superior breathability. It's designed with a midsole that pushes air through channels which keeps the ventilation circulating in your boots as you walk in the heat. Your feet stay cool and comfortable and you no longer have to dread the heat! The best part is, the C3 is available in an 8" version for those that prefer a taller boot and a 6" version for those that desire a low cut boot.

See what the editors have to say on policemag.com or watch the video on policeone.com.



Monday, January 18, 2010

Bates® Footwear to Unveil Latest High-Performance Technology - C3® with Cross Channel Circulation

Bates® Footwear to Unveil Latest High-Performance Technology at SHOT Show:

The C3® with Cross Channel Circulation

Rockford, MI (January 2010) – Bates® Footwear is no stranger to innovation. With its new C3® boot launching at the 2010 Shooting, Hunting, Outdoor Trade Show and Conference (SHOT Show), the respected footwear manufacturer introduces a patented technology that will provide unmatched footwear breathability.

“Bates is continuously unveiling new technologies with the goal of being a clear innovative solutions provider,” says Ron Woznick, Vice President and General Manager of Bates Footwear, “Comfort and footwear breathability remain high priorities for the law enforcement profession. We are looking forward to seeing this new technology on the streets where it will provide noticeable comfort differences in the everyday lives of men and women in law enforcement.”

The C3 joins an already impressive portfolio of military and uniform footwear. Designed for hardwearing comfort, the C3 boots feature patented Cross Channel Circulation technology to keep feet cooler and more comfortable. As the wearer moves about, air is forced through the patented cross channel construction, providing superior breathability.

In addition to its patented Cross Channel Circulation technology, the C3 offers an abundance of dependable details. The C3 boasts a durable leather and 1680 Denier nylon upper, as well as, a resilient 360-degree rubber outsole that provides impressive grip and stability. The C3 promotes additional comfort via a moisture wicking lining that manages perspiration. The lightweight, removable insole offers strong but flexible support to ensure maximum stability. The end result is a comfort-driven boot that delivers on multiple fronts.

C3 Features At A Glance:

• Patented Cross Channel Circulation Technology
• Leather and 1680 Denier Nylon Upper
• Cushioned EVA Midsole
• Lightweight Removable Insole
• Moisture Wicking Lining
• Durable Rubber Outsole
• Flexible Cement Construction

Models: E03381 C3 Men’s 8” Side Zip Boot; E03781 C3 Women’s 8” Side Zip Boot; and E03360 C3 Men’s 6” Boot.



As one of the largest uniform footwear companies in the world, Bates is forever driven to produce only the best for those who depend on the brand while on the job, whether on the streets or in combat. “We’re excited about the C3 and are eager to watch it provide unmatched breathability performance in a segment where footwear comfort is critical,” says Woznick.

Held at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, the SHOT Show will run from January 19 through January 22 and is for the trade only. (For more information on the SHOT Show, visit http://www.shotshow.org/.)

Bates Footwear will be located in the Law Enforcement section, booth number 11860.

For more information on Bates Footwear, visit www.batesfootwear.com.

Bates® Footwear Celebrates 125 Years of Inspiring Innovation

Rockford, MI (January 2010) – When it comes to service, every company has its own motivation, its own mission. At Bates® Footwear (Bates), that mission is perfectly summed up in its brand promise: Honor Bound®. About to celebrate its 125-year anniversary, Bates is now, more than ever, committed to those words and to the countless individuals who depend on the company’s products.

“Our 125th anniversary is an extremely significant milestone for Bates. It would be considerable for any company, but it is especially amazing when you realize everything Bates has accomplished during its history serving those in the military and public service ,” said Ron Woznick, Vice President and General Manager of Bates Footwear.

A leading supplier of footwear to the U.S. federal government and the Department of Defense, the Bates brand is synonymous with innovation and expertise. Its foray into uniform footwear first took place with the company’s creation of the original Navy Uniform Oxford. The overwhelming popularity of the shoe led to the manufacturing of footwear for all branches of the U.S. military. It was only a matter of time before Bates would dedicate 100% of its resources to making uniform footwear for military and civilian services.

Today, Bates proudly outfits elite military organizations in more than sixty countries. With each step, Bates has expanded its leadership story, building a solid reputation for exceptional performance founded on leading edge, innovative footwear that use the toughest, most resilient materials available, such as Gore-Tex® and Vibram®. Engineering breakthroughs, like the Bates DuraShocks® and Bates® Individual Comfort System, also continue to establish the brand as a leader in the industry and one of the largest uniform footwear companies in the world.

While the materials Bates uses may change throughout the years, its commitment to making the finest footwear for military, police, and other uniformed public services has not. As a result of that dedication, Bates sells an average of 1.5 million pairs of boots and shoes each year and, with every new innovation, the demand for the brand grows.

“We’re certain that Bates will continue to spearhead breakthrough developments in uniform footwear,” said Woznick. “It’s in our brand DNA. It’s what we do. We have invested 125 years in providing the finest product available and that dedication and commitment will endure.”

For more information and to view product lines, visit www.batesfootwear.com.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Bates Boots on the Memorial Wall

In early 2009 Bates began a partnership with the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) to raise public awareness of National Police Week and to thank law enforcement for their service, sacrifice and dedication.



In efforts to increase awareness, Bates called on the support of our retailers to promote National Police Week that took place in Washington DC, May 2009. By doing so, our retailers sold paper boot cutouts in exchange for a $5 donation to the fund. We were extremely pleased at the results of this program with our dealers raising over $9000 for the NLEOMF. The boots that were collected by our dealers across the US were sent in to be displayed on the Memorial Wall.


With the support and commitment from each contributor, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial is able to further pursue efforts in honoring and protecting the men and women of law enforcement. We thank everyone for their generous donations and participation during this campaign.
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is a private non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of America’s law enforcement officers and to promoting officer safety. The NLEOMF maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, which contains the names of 18,274 officers who have died in the line of duty throughout U.S. history. The Memorial Fund is now working to create the first-ever National Law Enforcement Museum, which will tell the story of law enforcement through high-tech, interactive exhibitions, historical artifacts and extensive educational programming. For more information, visit www.lawmemorial.org.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Bates® Introduces GX-8 GORE-TEX® Insulated Side Zip Boot

Bates® launches an extension of their popular GX series with an 8” insulated boot featuring 200g. Thinsulate™ Insulation and GORE-TEX® waterproof technology.


ROCKFORD, Mich. (July 2009) As the GX Series product tops the charts each year as a best seller, Bates has extended this line with an 8” Gore-Tex® Insulated Side Zip (Style 2488). Waterproofing and warmth join forces with the combination of two superior footwear fabrics, Thinsulate™ and Gore-Tex® to make this new product a necessity for those withstanding cold temperatures and wet climates.



The unique fibers of Thinsulate™ insulation rank superior when compared to synthetic insulations and are much more efficient at keeping feet warm and comfortable. The GORE-TEX® Insulated Comfort features keep feet dry, warm and protected by being durably waterproof and breathable and providing vital climate comfort. Built with an athletic cement construction for lightweight flexibility and side zip for easy on and off, these boots reflect the quality and craftsmanship that goes into every product Bates manufacturers. The new 8” Gore-Tex® Insulated Side Zip Boot is best suited for fall and winter outdoor activities and will be available in stores and online at www.batesfootwear.com October 2009.

Committed to service and product excellence, Bates Footwear is a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc., one of the world's leading marketers of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport and uniform footwear and apparel. The Company’s portfolio of highly recognized brands includes: Bates®, Chaco®, Cushe™, Hush Puppies®, HYTEST®, Merrell®, Sebago®, Soft Style® and Wolverine®. The Company also is the exclusive footwear licensee of popular brands including CAT®, Harley-Davidson® and Patagonia®. The Company’s products are carried by leading retailers in the U.S. and globally in 180 countries and territories.
For additional information, please visit our website, www.batesfootwear.com.

Soles4Souls Distributes Bates To Those In Need



(2008) Nashville based Soles4Souls facilitates the donations of both new and used shoes, which are used to aid the hurting worldwide. Soles4Souls has distributed more than 5 million pairs to people in over 70 countries, including Honduras, Uganda, Romania, and the US. Bates is fortunate to be among the many brands that contribute to thier efforts in helping those in need.

Soles4Souls is also a green way to make sure that shoes do not end up in a landfill before their wear life has ended. Quoted from their website " The reward of buying a new pair of shoes simply cannot compare to the joy of giving a pair to someone in need. These shoes are treasured beyond description and it's just at that very moment that we understand just how awesome shoes can be."


To donate or become invovled in Soles4Souls events Click Here to visit thier website.

Bates Participates in Sponsorship to Raise Funds for Wounded Warrior Project (WWP)

(October 2009) Bates footwear along with, Metro PCS, and Sunset retirement services is sponsoring our local Jenison Highschool football this fall to raise funds for Wounded Warrior Prject (WWP).


On and off the field, Jenison Football understands there are many battles that need to be won. They recognize that some battles are much bigger than our own. Together we can help raise awareness and funds to help this cause win its battle. The 2009 season will conclude with the Jenison-Hudsonville game. The Georgetwon neighbors, and long time rivals will work together this season to raise money and awareness for the Wounded Warrior Project. During the game, both booster clubs will come together to present a check to WWP.

To date, they have raised $2500 with Wolverine World-Wide Bates Division and Metro PCS being the lead donors. Thier goal is to raise $5000 to donate.

Dedicated Wounded Warrior Project Football Game takes place Friday, October 23, Jenison HS Stadium.

Bates Wins Special Operations Forces Contract for Tactical Combat Boots

Rockford, MI (September, 2008) – Bates® Footwear, a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. announces that it has received a contract to manufacture roughly 5,000 lightweight Tactical Combat Boots for the U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF). Bates is a market leader in the design and manufacture of innovative high performance footwear for military and law enforcement communities, As a brand in the Wolverine World Wide portfolio, Bates utilized its own technologies and integrated with technological advances of other brands in the Wolverine portfolio, namely the Company’s Merrell® and, Wolverine® brands to develop this Tactical Combat Boot.



Bates developed the Tactical Combat Boot specifically to provide enhanced durability, stability, and traction in urban and field operations. The Vibram® Mutant outsole creates superior traction on wet and dry surfaces, while the direct-attach construction provides superior cushioning and durability. The anti-bacterial, abrasion-resistant Dri-Lex® Camo lining delivers enhanced moisture management and ensures soldiers’ feet remain cool, dry and comfortable.

"Bates is committed to being the leader in providing footwear solutions for all branches of the US Military – We intend to achieve this goal by leveraging a wide range of technologies and development expertise through-out Wolverine World Wide’s array of footwear brands such as Merrell and Wolverine Brand,” said Ron Woznick, Vice President and General Manager of Bates Footwear. “We feel privileged to provide yet another new footwear solution for our nation’s elite combat forces needs.”

The Special Forces Tactical Combat Boot joins the Chem Bio Protective Overboot and the Tora Bora™ Alpine Combat Boot as the mission footwear of choice for the Special Forces.

All three products are manufactured with 100% domestic materials at Bates facilities in Big Rapids, Michigan and Jonesboro, Arkansas, maintaining the company’s commitment to manufacturing in the United States.

Bates is a leading supplier of uniform footwear to all branches of the U.S. military and has been building a reputation for uncompromising performance in uniform footwear for more than 120 years. Engineered advancements such as Bates DuraShocks® comfort system, Ultra-Lites® technology and Bates Individual Comfort System combine to set the brand apart and cement its status as the gold standard in uniform footwear. For more information and to view product lines, visit http://www.batesfootwear.com/

Bates® Footwear to Develop and Manufacture Tora Bora™ Alpine Combat Boot



ROCKFORD, MI (October 31, 2007)—Bates® Footwear, a division of Wolverine World Wide Inc., announced today that it will complete development and manufacture 10,000 pairs of Tora Bora™ Alpine Combat Boots under a new $2.2 million government contract with the U.S. Special Operations Command. Through initial development with the Special Operations Command, this new technical boot has been specifically engineered for soldiers operating in mountain warfare conditions. Bates will manufacture the Tora Bora Alpine Combat Boot with 100% U.S.-sourced materials at U.S.-based ISO 9001:2000 compliant manufacturing facilities in Rockford, Michigan; Big Rapids, Michigan; and Jonesboro, Arkansas.


Wolverine World Wide Chief Executive Officer Blake W. Krueger said, “We are honored to be a source of technical innovation for the Special Forces and strive to design the best possible footwear solutions that meet the specific needs of the U.S. military. In doing so, we are pleased to continue to develop domestically manufactured footwear that employs cutting edge technologies cultivated through the creative synergy between the Bates® and Merrell® divisions.”

Since 2004, Bates Footwear has worked closely with the Special Operations Forces to understand the performance characteristics required for their tactical footwear. The Tora Bora Alpine Combat Boot incorporates proprietary design and manufacturing technologies from both the Bates and Merrell divisions of Wolverine World Wide to provide soldiers with the only domestically manufactured technical footwear suited for advanced mountaineering and high altitude combat operations.

The Tora Bora Alpine Combat Boot integrates new technologies developed to meet the needs of the U.S. military with commercially available design and construction innovations that have been tested and adopted by extreme mountaineers. This new combat boot will provide soldiers enhanced durability, stability and traction to navigate across varied terrain including deep snow pack; arid desert sand; steep, muddy slopes; and sheer rock face. The technical boot design offers total performance in a broad range of temperatures and optimum compatibility with tools commonly used by the Special Operations Forces in specialized ski warfare, ice climbing, and snowshoeing expeditions.

Bates remains focused on providing soldiers with advanced footwear and is committed to keeping its domestic operations in Arkansas and Michigan technologically competitive. Bates will be equipping its factories with advanced equipment to enable the construction of this state-of-the-art boot and conduct training for the employees on new manufacturing techniques. These resources will equip the employees with highly specialized manufacturing skills to build the complex footwear – a vital tool for the men and women who are serving in uniform.

Recognizing the military’s need for domestically manufactured, high-performance technical footwear, Bates® Footwear has received strong Congressional support from Members of Congress, particularly Senator Mark Pryor (D-AR), Rep. Dave Camp (R-4th/MI) and Rep. Marion Berry (D-01/AR).

“From their body armor to their boots, our men and women in uniform should have cutting-edge equipment at their disposal,” Senator Pryor said. “I applaud Bates for developing innovative footwear that better meets the needs of our soldiers, and I appreciate the hard work of their employees in Jonesboro and elsewhere.”

“We have a responsibility to give the brave men and women in uniform who defend our country the best equipment available,” said Congressman Berry. “By providing the soldiers with this valuable tool, Bates is also developing a highly-trained and specialized workforce in Jonesboro, which will benefit the community. I’m proud Arkansas will play a role in improving the equipment for our Special Operations Forces and commend the work Bates is doing to aid our troops in their mission and keep them safe from harm.”

Congressman Dave Camp said, “I am pleased that Bates workers continue to innovate and produce the most cutting-edge footwear available to suit the specialized needs of our Special Operations Forces. It is important news that our troops will continue to have the best products available as they serve our country.”


Bates® is part of the Wolverine Footwear Group, a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. manufacturers and marketers of branded and licensed footwear and performance leathers. Bates is a leading supplier of uniform footwear to all branches of the U.S. Military and has been building a reputation for uncompromising performance in uniform footwear for more than 120 years.. For more information and to view the product lines please visit www.batesfootwear.com.