Sneaker Technology
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 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 shoes
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 shoes 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.
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 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 shoes
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 shoes 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.
