Frank Michel

Frank Michel is a seasoned professional in the field of sports innovation and research, currently serving as the Senior Innovation Manager at Vaude since January 2009. In this role, Michel has spearheaded the development of high-performance and sustainable product technologies for apparel, footwear, and backpacks with a particular emphasis on mountain sports and cycling. As a founder and consultant, Michel provides expertise in applied research, product testing, and training for sports and medtech brands. Previously, Michel served as a Research Associate in the Sports Division at bfu - Swiss Council for Accident Prevention, focusing on injury prevention and personal protection equipment. A substantial tenure at adidas included leading biomechanical R&D and product validation for major innovations, alongside managing advanced product evaluation. Michel holds a doctorate in sport sciences with specializations in biomechanics and sport orthopaedics from Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln, complemented by training as an athletic shoe technician at the adidas Global Technology Center.