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Footwear construction guide
Sole Types

A practical guide to sole options for leather shoe export programs.

Choosing the right sole construction

The sole determines comfort, weight, grip, flexibility, durability, and target price for leather footwear.

Sole Type Common Use Buyer Notes
Leather sole Formal and luxury dress shoes Premium appearance, elegant profile, best for formal markets.
Rubber sole Formal, casual, boots Strong grip and durability for everyday use.
TPR sole Casual shoes, sandals, value footwear Flexible, cost-effective, and widely used.
PU sole Comfort shoes, casual footwear Lightweight cushioning and clean finish.
EVA sole Lightweight casual shoes Soft, light, and comfortable for daily wear.
Combination sole Premium formal and hybrid shoes Leather look with rubber grip inserts or layered construction.