At Rafale, when we select a pair of shoes for you, we think about style, quality but also its environmental impact. We select the best shoes by taking all the elements of the product into consideration and that also includes the sole. A real challenge because the sole must be resistant, comfortable and eco-responsible materials are still difficult to find.
Sole materials and their characteristics
At Rafale Market, we know that the choice of sole is crucial for the comfort and durability of your shoes. The materials used for soles vary based on their specific properties, which influence the performance and feel of the shoe. Let's explore the main types of sole materials, their unique characteristics, and their ecological impact.
Here are the main materials used in soles:
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Leather
Features: Durability, personalized comfort and sophisticated aesthetics. Leather adapts to the shape of the foot and is often used for chic shoes.
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Natural and Synthetic Rubber
Natural Rubber: Comes from the latex of rubber trees. Flexible, durable and biodegradable, it offers excellent adhesion and impact resistance.
Synthetic Rubber: Made from petroleum derivatives, it is often more resistant to certain conditions but less ecological. It is used for its adhesion and resistance qualities.
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EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate)
Manufacturing EVA is a chemical process using ethylene and vinyl acetate that creates a foam, which can then be molded into a sole.
Characteristics: Lightness, flexibility and excellent shock absorption. EVA is a synthetic foam material that provides optimal comfort thanks to its cushioning.
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TPU (Thermoplastic Polymer)
TPU is a thermoplastic polymer obtained through a chemical process (the reaction between a diisocyanate and a polyol). This chemical process includes several key steps:
TPU is valued for its durability, flexibility and abrasion resistance, making it a popular choice for athletic shoes and work boots.
Characteristics: Abrasion resistance, stability and lightness. Used primarily in athletic shoe soles for its ability to maintain shape and performance in a variety of conditions.
Environmental impact of sole materials
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The environmental impact of leather
Leather production can be very polluting due to the chemicals used in tanning. Vegetable tanning is a more ecological alternative. Rafale favors labeled leathers, resulting from vegetable tanning processes and recycled leathers for a more sustainable approach.
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The environmental impact of natural rubber
Natural rubber is biodegradable and comes from renewable sources. However, its production can lead to deforestation if not managed sustainably. At Rafale, we favor certified suppliers who guarantee sustainable practices.
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The environmental impact of synthetic rubber
Strong environmental impact due to its production from petroleum products. The manufacturing process is energy-intensive and generates pollutants. We limit its use and promote more ecological alternatives.
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The environmental impact of EVA
EVA is derived from petrochemicals and is not biodegradable. Its environmental impact is significant, but using recycled versions can alleviate this problem. At Rafale, we encourage the use of recycled EVA.
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The environmental impact of TPU
TPU, like EVA, comes from the chemical industry. Its production has a notable environmental impact, but recycled versions reduce this impact. We favor recycled TPU for our products.
Conclusion
At Rafale Market, we are committed to offering products that combine comfort, style and respect for the environment. By understanding the different types of soles and their impacts, you can make more informed and responsible choices. We strive to favor natural and recycled materials to minimize our ecological footprint while offering you quality products.
We have selected ultra-desirable shoe brands for you that meet our sustainable fashion charter, such as Humaya Paris , MoEa , Vandrélaar and Meeko .
