Differences Between TPR Sole and Rubber Sole
Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) and traditional rubber soles are commonly used materials in footwear manufacturing, each with distinct characteristics. Here’s a comparison:
TPR Sole
- Material: TPR is a blend of rubber and plastic, combining the best properties of both.
- Flexibility: Highly flexible and can be molded into various shapes and designs.
- Weight: Generally lighter than traditional rubber, making it suitable for casual and fashion footwear.
- Durability: Offers good durability but may not be as long-lasting as natural rubber in extreme conditions.
- Cost: Typically less expensive to produce than rubber soles.
- Shock Absorption: Provides moderate shock absorption and comfort.
- Grip: Adequate grip but may not perform as well as rubber on wet or slippery surfaces.
- Recyclability: More easily recyclable due to its thermoplastic nature.
Rubber Sole
- Material: Made from natural or synthetic rubber, known for its elasticity and resilience.
- Flexibility: Excellent flexibility, often superior to TPR.
- Weight: Heavier compared to TPR, adding more weight to the footwear.
- Durability: Extremely durable and long-lasting, especially in tough or outdoor environments.
- Cost: Generally more expensive to produce than TPR soles.
- Shock Absorption: Superior shock absorption, providing better comfort and protection for high-impact activities.
- Grip: Excellent grip, particularly on wet, slippery, or uneven surfaces, making it ideal for sports and outdoor footwear.
- Recyclability: Less recyclable than TPR due to its composition, but advances in technology are improving this aspect.
Conclusion
Choosing between TPR and rubber soles depends on the intended use of the footwear. TPR soles are ideal for fashion-forward, lightweight, and cost-effective shoes, while rubber soles are preferred for their superior durability, grip, and shock absorption, making them suitable for outdoor and high-performance footwear.
Note: Covlor® only use Natural Rubber.
