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Sneaker Technology
When it comes to sneaker technology, shoes are divided into three major areas: the upper, the midsole, and the outsole. Depending on the materials and combinations used, one model of sneaker can vary greatly from another.
The Upper
Uppers, the top part of the shoe with the laces, fancy designs and bright colors that holds the shoe together, usually come in one of three materials, leather, synthetic leather, and mesh. Special editions, retro and vintage models, Converse and casual shoes like the Nike Vandal, the Air Force 1, and the Nike After Party for women may have a canvas upper. The most famous shoes to have an all canvas upper are the Converse All Stars.
The Midsole
Midsoles are used to cushion and provide support and protection for the foot. There are four types of materials used in commercially produced sneakers. Midsoles are often constructed of a combination of materials. Midsole materials are Phylon, polyurethane, Phylite, and EVA. Click the material to learn more about these materials.:
- Phylon
- Phylon is very lightweight, low-profile and responsive. Phylon is made of EVA foam pellets that are compressed, heat expanded and then cooled in a mold. Compression-molded Phylon midsoles can be sculpted into a variety of designs that are identified by their fine wrinkles.
- PU or Polyurethane
- PU is the most dense, durable and stable midsole material. PU is poured into a mold to create a firm midsole that provides maximum protection from impact. PU is identified by its smooth rubbery feel and tendency to turn yellow with age. PU is the heaviest midsole material, but it is also the most durable
- Phylite
- Phylite is an injection-molded unit made of a combination of 60% Phylon and 40% rubber. Phylite is lighter than rubber, but heavier than Phylon and functions as both midsole and outsole. By eliminating a separate midsole and outsole the weight of the shoe is greatly reduced and flexibility is increased.
- EVA
- EVA is soft, light and flexible. It is the least expensive midsole material and is often used in entry-level shoes. Midsoles are cut and shaped from flat sheets of EVA foam. EVA will compress and become flat over time as the air trapped within the foam is squeezed out. Once EVA is compacted, it does not return to its original shape and no longer provides cushioning. EVA compresses faster than other midsole materials.
The Outsole
The outsole, the part of the shoe that comes in contact with the ground, provides durability, and it is the first stage of cushioning for the shoe. Patterns on the outsole vary according to the needs of the sport. The five most commonly used materials for outsoles are as follows:
- BRS 1000 (Carbon Rubber)
- Carbon rubber is a synthetic rubber with carbon added. The combination of these two materials creates an extremely durable outsole. The black carbon does not completely bond with the rubber so it can leave marks on surfaces, for example, black marks on a gym floor. Carbon rubber is mainly used in the running category.
- Solid Rubber
- This is the most common outsole material used in shoes, especially Nike shoes. This blend of synthetic rubber and natural rubber that will not mark a floor or court surface. It also offers excellent traction and durability on all indoor surfaces, but is not as durable as DRC on rough, outdoor surfaces. Solid rubber is mainly used in basketball and cross training shoes.
- Durable Rubber Compound
- DRC is a blend of solid rubber with additives that offer extra durability for rough and abrasive surfaces. DRC is a heavy, dense and very hard material. Compared to other outsole materials, DRC is heavier, but offers increased durability. DRC is mainly used in tennis, walking and outdoor basketball shoes.
- Duralon
- Duralon is a lightweight, blown synthetic rubber compound that incorporates tiny air pockets for an incredibly soft, smooth and cushioned ride. Because this material is so soft, it is not as durable as other outsole materials. Duralon is primarily found in the forefoot area of running shoes.
- Gum Rubber
- This is a combination of natural rubber and synthetic rubber. It is easily identified by its natural tan color. Gum rubber is soft and provides excellent traction on all indoor surfaces, but is not meant for outdoor courts. Its use is usually limited to indoor court play and volleyball shoes.
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