FAQ

Climatocork
What makes cork so special?

Cork is an extremely lightweight natural material with a closed-cell structure. Air accounts for 90% of its volume and around 50% of its mass – making cork five times lighter than water. Climatocork therefore has an outstanding power-to-weight ratio, as its mass is minimal compared to its functional benefits.

How is cork produced?

Cork is harvested from the bark of the cork oak, which is native primarily to Portugal. From the age of 25, the bark can be harvested for the first time. After that, it is carefully stripped every nine years and grows back completely. This process follows clearly defined rules to ensure the trees are not harmed.
Granulated natural cork forms the basis of our Climatocork footbed. This high-grade cork granulate is sourced from the punching remnants left over from the production of premium wine and champagne corks.

Why is the Climatocork footbed so comfortable?

One cubic centimeter of cork consists of about 40 million closed, air-filled cells. This honeycomb-like, flexible structure provides excellent shock absorption. We have also enhanced Climatocork to adapt to the shape of the foot through body heat – becoming more comfortable with every wear.
Thanks to its anatomical design, the Climatocork footbed provides targeted support for the foot in areas subject to particular stress, ensuring lasting high performance.

How does Climatocork perform in hot or cold ambient temperatures?

The air trapped within the cork’s honeycomb-like cell structure is what gives natural cork its outstanding insulating properties – both against heat and cold. As a result, Climatocork reacts flexibly to the surrounding temperature and helps maintain a comfortable climate inside the shoe. In hot conditions, the interior of the shoe stays noticeably cooler, while in cold conditions, the Climatocork footbed insulates against the ground and retains warmth inside the shoe. This keeps your feet consistently comfortable – even when conditions change.

Why is the Climatocork footbed breathable?

Cork is naturally almost waterproof. However, for Climatocork we have developed a special process that enables the cork base to absorb moisture to a high degree. This effectively wicks moisture away from the foot – keeping your feet comfortably dry inside the shoe.
Thanks to our innovative, proprietary manufacturing process, Climatocork is able to breathe – ensuring an excellent in-shoe climate.
Climatocork is also exceptionally skin-friendly, as cork is naturally antibacterial and promotes a hygienically clean environment.

Can the Climatocork footbed be washed in the washing machine?

No. While the Climatocork footbed is designed to absorb moisture exceptionally well, it is not suitable for machine washing.

If my shoes and the Climatocork footbed got soaked in the rain, how should I dry them?

To dry, remove the Climatocork footbed from the shoe and place both the shoe and footbed in a well-ventilated room. Never dry them directly near a heater or radiator.

How long does a Climatocork footbed last?

That depends on many individual factors – such as your gait, anatomy, body weight, moisture levels in the shoe, and the distances you cover. For this reason, it’s not possible to give a general lifespan.
Also for hygienic reasons, we recommend replacing it about once a year.
A helpful tip: Let your shoes air out for about 24 hours after each wear – this also allows the Climatocork footbed to properly regenerate.

Can I order a replacement Climatocork footbed?

The Climatocork footbed is removable and can be replaced at any time. For hygienic reasons, we recommend replacing it about once a year.
Because there are several variants, reordering is not handled directly through the online shop. If you would like to request a new Climatocork footbed, feel free to contact us – or visit our Climatocork page, where you’ll find more information and the option to send an inquiry.

Can I use my Climatocork footbed in another shoe?

The Climatocork footbed is the heart of every Hackner shoe. Our models and the footbed are perfectly matched and were designed from the outset as a functional unit.
Using it in shoes from other brands is therefore not recommended.

Does the Climatocork footbed become softer over time?

Yes. Climatocork gradually adapts to the individual shape of the foot through body heat and pressure. Over time, the material becomes noticeably softer and more comfortable – without losing its structural integrity.