Shoes do not merely protect our feet from sharp or harmful objects on the road but they also defend our feet against injuries and ensure we maintain our balance and don’t slip, especially on slippery surfaces. Any pair of shoes can provide you with this basic protection, but if you want something extra from your shoes: extra comfort, extra grip on the slippery surfaces, extra lateral support. You need to go for a good pair of shoes. Rubber sole vs plastic sole is a hot and confusing topic while selecting pickleball shoes nowadays.
What is a good pair of pickleball shoes? What Makes a pickleball Shoe Good? The aesthetic design? The intragamical style? NO, these are the soles of the shoes which make them good. But how will you figure out whether that sole of the shoe is good or not?
Finding a shoe with a good sole can be nasty when the market is overflooded with options and each brand is claiming to have the best soles. Do not worry, in this article we will guide you on different types of soles: rubber soles and plastic soles, the difference between rubber and plastic soles and which one is better.
What Are Rubber Soles?
Rubber soles are primarily made from natural or synthetic rubber. Natural rubber, also known as latex, is derived from the sap of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). On the other hand, synthetic rubber is a man-made material produced using various petrochemicals.
Types of rubber sole
There are different types of rubber soles to craft quality pickleball shoes. Most common soles are described in the following:
1. Pure Rubber Soles
Natural Rubber (Latex) Derived from the rubber tree’s sap are called pure rubber soles. They offer excellent grip and elasticity. Pure natural rubber soles provide superb cushioning and are commonly used in sports shoes, especially those designed for activities like pickleball and tennis.
2. Synthetic Rubber Soles
The synthetic rubber is frequently blended with natural rubber to improve wear resistance. Synthetic rubber soles include Nitrile Rubber (NBR), Butyl Rubber (IIR), Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Rubber. These soles are versatile and found in various types of footwear, from sneakers to casual shoes.
3. Other Rubber Variants
Neoprene soles are known for their cushioning properties and resistance to heat, oil, and weather. They are often found in athletic shoes, hiking boots, and diving suits.
What Are Plastic soles?
Plastic soles are made from thermoplastic materials, which means they can be melted and molded into various shapes during the manufacturing process. Common plastics used for shoe soles include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).
Types Of Plastic Soles
Here is the list of commonly used plastic soles in pickleball shoes with little explanation for your better understanding:
1. PVC Soles
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a common material for plastic soles. It is known for its durability and water-resistant properties.
2. PU Soles
Polyurethane (PU) is another popular plastic material used for shoe soles. PU soles offer a balance between comfort and durability. They are suitable for casual and formal shoes.
3. EVA Soles
Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) is a lightweight and cushioning material often used in athletic and casual shoe soles. It provides shock absorption and comfort.
4. TPU Soles
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) combines the durability of plastic with the flexibility of rubber. TPU soles are used in sports and outdoor footwear for their robustness and traction.
Rubber Sole vs Plastic Sole: What’s the Real Difference
The main difference between rubber soles and plastic soles is their ability to absorb shocks. Let’s explore the other differences between rubber soles and plastic soles in terms of comfort, wear resistance, floor grip, lightweightness, and cushioning.
Comfort
There is no doubt that rubber soles are more comfortable than other types of soles. They provide a cushioned feel underfoot, which can significantly enhance the wearer’s comfort. This cushioning effect is due to the inherent elasticity of rubber, which absorbs shock and reduces the impact on your feet.
On the other hand, plastic soles generally lack the same level of comfort as rubber. They tend to be stiffer and may not provide the same level of shock absorption, which can make them less comfortable for prolonged wear.
Wear Resistance
Plastic soles, such as those made from PVC or TPU, are known for their exceptional wear resistance. They can endure tough conditions and are less prone to abrasion, making them a suitable choice for heavy-duty or outdoor footwear. Rubber soles, particularly those made from durable rubber compounds like natural rubber or SBR, exhibit good wear resistance. However, they are not as wear-resistant as plastic soles.
Floor Grip
Rubber soles excel in providing excellent floor grip and reducing the risk of slippage. The natural grip of rubber compounds, coupled with their flexibility, makes them effective on various surfaces, including wet or slippery ones. Plastic soles, while still offering grip, may not perform as well as rubber soles in slippery conditions. Their rigidity and smooth texture can sometimes limit their effectiveness in preventing accidental slips.
Weight (Lightweightness)
Plastic soles tend to be lighter in weight compared to rubber soles. This lightweight quality can be advantageous for activities that require agility and minimal footwear weight. Rubber soles are generally slightly heavier due to their composition. However, the added weight often contributes to better stability and shock absorption, which can be beneficial in certain situations.
Cushioning
Rubber soles are known for their superior cushioning properties. They effectively absorb shocks from walking, jumping, or running and provide a comfortable and supportive experience for the user. Plastic soles may offer less cushioning due to their rigidity. While they provide some level of protection, they may not absorb shocks as effectively as rubber soles.
Final Verdict
To conclude, the choice between rubber soles and plastic soles depends on your specific needs and preferences. Rubber soles are comfortable, have a good grip on floors, and provide cushioning, making them ideal for everyday wear and sports activities. Plastic soles are known for their durability and lightness, making them suitable for rugged and lightweight footwear. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your intended use and comfort priorities. We hope you will find this guide helpful in understanding: Rubber sole vs Plastic Sole.
FAQs
Which is better PU sole or rubber sole?
PU (Polyurethane) soles are known for their balance between comfort and durability, making them suitable for various types of footwear. Rubber soles, on the other hand, excel in grip and cushioning. It depends on your specific needs.
Which type of sole material is best?
The best sole material for you depends on your needs. Rubber soles are great for grip and cushioning, while PU soles offer a mix of comfort and durability. Choose the sole material that best suits your specific needs and the purpose of your footwear.
What is the difference between rubber sole and TPR sole?
Rubber soles are often made from natural or synthetic rubber compounds. They provide excellent grip and cushioning but may be slightly heavier. TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) soles are a blend of plastic and rubber, offering durability and flexibility. The main difference is in their composition: rubber is more natural, while TPR is a synthetic blend.
Are plastic soles comfortable?
Plastic soles, such as those made from PVC or TPU, are comfortable. however, They tend to be stiffer and may not provide as much shock absorption as rubber soles. However, comfort can vary based on the shoe’s design and the specific plastic material used.
