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Like all types of footwear, men's sandals are made from different materials. Such features differentiate the sandals, affecting their suitability for different occasions and environments and influencing the comfort level and durability.
Here are the men's sandals soles materials:
Rubber soles
Rubber is flexible and resilient. These properties have popularized it among manufacturers as a preferred material for sandal soles.
Rubber soles are known for their superb traction. This aspect makes them ideal for casual and outdoor wear, where grip and stability are critical.
In addition, pure gum rubber has a long lifespan. People use it in activities that require constant wear and tear. These activities include walking, hiking, or just strolling on rough terrains or urban environments.
EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) soles
EVA is a lightweight and cushy material that offers a good balance between firmness and flexibility. Because of its features, manufacturers favor it for making athletic sandals.
EVA sandals are water resistant. This feature not only makes them suitable for wet environments like pools and beaches but also for light to moderate physical activities. These activities include walking, where a lightweight design can significantly enhance performance and comfort.
TPR (thermoplastic rubber) soles
Thermoplastic rubber is a synthetic material combining the best properties of rubber and plastic. Namely, flexibility, durability, and resistance to temperature changes.
TPR soles are often used in budget-friendly sandals. They give a decent level of comfort and traction for everyday wear.
Leather soles
Leather is the traditional choice for sandal soles in luxury and formal sandals. Even though it does not have the same level of water resistance and durability as rubber or TPR, it has a timeless aesthetic appeal and offers superb comfort.
Furthermore, it molds the feet over time. This feature gives greater comfort in the long run. People value leather soles in formal sandals where style and comfort are prioritized, although they require more maintenance and are more expensive.
Cork soles
Cork, a natural and sustainable material, is also used in making sandal soles. It is lightweight, shock-absorbing, and contours to the foot's shape over time. Like leather, cork insulates and provides added warmth.
Additionally, it is eco-friendly. For this reason, manufacturers are encouraged to use cork for making their sandals. Moreover, cork soled sandals are often finished with a layer of jute or fabric on top for added comfort and a refined look.
When choosing men's sandals, it is important to consider the sandal sole material. Each material offers different comfort and durability levels, making it critical to choose one that suits the customer's lifestyle and needs.
In addition, at wholesale level, it is prudent to understand the customer's needs and those of different customer segments to make informed purchasing decisions as a retailer.
Here are the key factors that a buyer should consider:
Comfort
A customer prioritizing safety will favor footwear made from EVA and cork. These materials excel in providing cushioning. Thus, they are suitable for those who wear sandals for long periods.
Moreover, sandals featuring cork and EVA soles have good ergonomic support. They are ideal for customers seeking relief from foot fatigue or conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Usage
If a customer uses sandals mostly for indoor and non-adventurous outdoor activities, leather and cork soles would suffice. However, if the sandals are intended for hiking, the half-insole and rubber would have good traction. They are suitable for casual and heavy-duty use.
Durability
Rubber and TPR are very sturdy, good for people who wear sandals regularly. These materials can withstand wear and tear, making them suitable for people who use their sandals daily. Even though leather and cork are durable, they need more maintenance to keep their durability.
Water resistant
EVA and rubber are resistant to water. That is why they are commonly used in swimming pools and beaches. Cork and leather are not water resistant. Therefore, avoid them for wet conditions.
Price
Among the materials mentioned above, EVA is the cheapest, while cork, leather, and ethylene require a higher price and more maintenance. Therefore, customers with a limited budget will decide to go for TPR or rubber.
Men's sandals have evolved from simply being functional to also becoming stylish. This shift to more casual and practical footwear has made sandals a staple in men's fashion. These sandals offer versatility and comfort.
So, are people still wearing sandals in 2023?
Sporty aesthetic
The sporty look remains appropriate in 2023, mainly with active sandals. It is particularly popular for those undertaking light activities. Such sandals usually have rugged soles made from rubber or TPR. These materials ensure good footing and comfort.
In addition, they are suitable for casual and mildly adventurous use. Furthermore, these sporty sandals are sometimes paired with outdoor-inspired clothing. This combination creates a functional yet trendy feel.
Luxury casual
Recently, there have been changes in sandals from purely functional to luxury casual ones. This trend includes high-end materials like leather and cork in the construction of the sandals.
This transformation is intended to elevate the sandals from a mere relaxed wear to a sophisticated item that can be worn even for semi-formal events. Therefore, consumers can now wear rich-looking sandals with all outfits and for all occasions.
Environmental consciousness
People have made it a priority to consider sustainability when purchasing goods. This mindset also includes sandals. Thus, manufacturers are making sandals from natural and renewable materials like cork and jute.
For instance, sandals featuring cork and jute not only provide comfort but also jump on the eco-friendly bandwagon. These sandals are a more conscientious choice against the backdrop of rising concern about waste and plastic pollution.
Minimalism
In 2023, the minimalist approach to sandal design is becoming popular and accepted in men's fashion. This trend emphasizes simple and streamlined designs, often with neutral color palettes and unembellished lines.
This minimalist style focuses more on the sandal's functionality. In addition, minimalistic sandals are easy to combine with various outfits. Thus, they are a practical choice for everyday wear.
Proper maintenance of sandals extends their life and preserves their condition. The cleaning methods for men's sandal soles largely depend on the material used in making them.
Here are the cleaning methods for the different men's sandals soles materials:
Sponge or damp cloth and mild detergent
A leather sandal sole needs a little attention to keep its charm and durability intact. Simply use a damp cloth or sponge with mild detergent to clean the leather surface. This practice prevents dirt from accumulating and keeps the leather moisturized and durable.
However, one must avoid soaking the leather in water. It causes the leather to crack or lose its texture. In addition, using a leather conditioner regularly helps to keep the leather soft and prevents it from drying out.
Sponge or damp cloth and mild detergent
Cork sandal soles also require a gentler cleaning method. Instead of soaking the cork, use a damp cloth to wipe it clean. To ensure the cork remains durable, applying a special cork sealer or conditioner is advisable.
This practice prevents the cork from drying out. Additionally, try to keep the cork soles away from excessive moisture. It will cause the material to break down.
Soft-bristled brush and mild soapy water
Rubber sandal soles are the most sturdy types. This robustness, however, does not exempt them from the cleaning process. Use a soft-bristled brush with mild soapy water to get rid of dirt and grime easily.
Moreover, rubber is resistant to water and harsh chemicals. Therefore, users can use bleach when washing it. To increase the lifespan of rubber soles, avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures and strong detergents. These items can degrade the rubber over time.
Soft-bristled brush and mild soap with water
Like rubber soles, TPR (thermoplastic rubber) soles are easy to clean and maintain. Users should use a soft-bristled brush with warm soapy water to remove dirt and grime easily.
They should do this regularly to maintain the shoes' original look. One should ensure the sandals are air-dried completely after cleaning them, as this will prevent the growth of mold.
Soft-bristled brush and mild soap with water
The cleaning process for synthetic jute sandals is similar to that of TPR sandals. A soft-bristled brush and warm soapy water work well in cleaning them.
However, give extra care to the jute material as it is more delicate. Avoid letting them be in contact with water for longer than necessary to prevent jute from getting frayed and spoil.
Yes, sandals with arch support relieve the strain on the toes, feet, and back. They also encourage good posture while distributing body weight evenly. This balance reduces pressure on the joints and soft tissues, lowering pain risk.
Sandals with orthotic insoles designed for arch support and heel cradling work well for plantar fasciitis. They ease pressure on the plantar fascia by evenly distributing body weight. They also provide shock absorption at the heel to reduce tension on the feet and heels.
Men's sandals are more breathable than closed shoes, allowing better airflow to the feet. Open styles like slides, flip-flops, and outdoor sandals promote air circulation, keeping the feet cooler and drier and reducing sweat buildup compared to full coverage shoes.
Everyday-use sandals like slides, sport sandals, and casual woven sandals are practical for daily use. Slide sandals are easy to wear and good for quick tasks. Sport sandals provide comfort, grip, and durability for outdoor activities, while woven fabric sandals are cool and comfortable in warm weather.
