Europe Footwear Sole Materials Market Segmentation, Product (Polyurethane, Rubber, SBS/Thermoplastic Elastomeric Block Copolymers, EVA, PVC, and Bio-Materials), Sole Component (Innersole and Outsole), Sole Product (New Soles and Repair Soles), Application (Athletic and Non-Athletic), End-User (Men, Women, and Kids), Country (U.S., Canada, China, India , Japan, South East Asia, South Korea, Australia & New Zealand, Rest of Asia-Pacific, Germany, U.K., France , Italy, Portugal, Spain, Russia, Switzerland, Turkey, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxemburg, Rest of Europe, Brazil, Argentina Mexico, Peru, Chile, Ecuador, Rest of Latin America, South Africa, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, U.A.E., Israel, and Rest of Middle East and Africa) – Industry Trends and Forecast to 2031
Footwear Sole Materials Market Analysis
As more individuals engage in various forms of physical exercise and sports, there is a heightened demand for footwear that offers enhanced support, comfort, and performance. This growing trend has led to an increased emphasis on specialized insoles designed to meet the specific needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The demand for insoles that provide better shock absorption, cushioning, and arch support has surged as consumers seek to prevent injuries and improve their overall performance. With the rising popularity of fitness activities such as running, hiking, and gym workouts, the need for high-performance insoles has become more pronounced. Modern insoles are engineered to offer tailored support for different types of physical activities, thereby enhancing user comfort and reducing the risk of foot-related issues.
Footwear Sole Materials Market Size
The global footwear sole materials market is expected to reach USD 6.09 billion by 2031 from USD 4.15 billion in 2023, growing with a substantial CAGR of 5.31% in the forecast period of 2024 to 2031. In addition to the insights on market scenarios such as market value, growth rate, segmentation, geographical coverage, and major players, the market reports curated by the Data Bridge Market Research also include import export analysis, production capacity overview, production consumption analysis, price trend analysis, climate change scenario, supply chain analysis, value chain analysis, raw material/consumables overview, vendor selection criteria, PESTLE Analysis, Porter Analysis, and regulatory framework.
Footwear Sole Materials Market Trends
“Rising Incidence of Foot Disorders and Chronic Diseases”
As the global population ages and the prevalence of conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and obesity increase, there is a growing demand for supportive and therapeutic footwear solutions. Foot disorders, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and bunions, are becoming more common, leading individuals to seek insoles that offer enhanced support, cushioning, and pain relief.
Diabetes, in particular, is a major driver of this market as per the American Diabetic Association and The American Journal of Managed Care estimate that diabetes is directly responsible for 60% of lower-leg amputations in patients 20 years of age and older. Diabetic patients often suffer from foot-related complications such as neuropathy and ulcers. This condition necessitates the use of specialized insoles that provide adequate cushioning and reduce pressure points to prevent injuries and improve comfort.
Report Scope and Footwear Sole Materials Market Segmentation
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Attributes
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Footwear Sole Materials Market Insights
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Segments Covered
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Countries Covered
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Germany, France, U.K., Italy, Russia, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and Rest of Europe
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Key Market Players
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Huntsman International LLC. (U.S.), DOW (U.S.), Solvay (Belgium), INOAC CORPORATION (Japan), Asahi Kasei Corporation. (Japan), BASF (Germany), Covestro AG (Germany), TP Polymer Private Limited (India), inpvc.(India)
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Market Opportunities
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Value Added Data Infosets
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In addition to the insights on market scenarios such as market value, growth rate, segmentation, geographical coverage, and major players, the market reports curated by the Data Bridge Market Research also include import export analysis, production capacity overview, production consumption analysis, price trend analysis, climate change scenario, supply chain analysis, value chain analysis, raw material/consumables overview, vendor selection criteria, PESTLE Analysis, Porter Analysis, and regulatory framework.
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Footwear Sole Materials Market Definition
Footwear sole material refers to the substances used in creating the bottom part of a shoe, providing support, comfort, durability, and traction. Common materials include rubber, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), polyurethane (PU), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), leather, and combinations of these. Each material offers unique properties such as flexibility, shock absorption, water resistance, or abrasion resistance. The choice of sole material depends on the intended purpose of the footwear, such as sports, fashion, or work-related uses, and directly impacts performance, cushioning, and safety. Innovative sole technologies and sustainable materials are gaining prominence to improve functionality and environmental responsibility.
Footwear Sole Materials Market Dynamics
Drivers
- Growing Demand for Sports and Athletic Footwear
As more individuals engage in various forms of physical exercise and sports, there is a heightened demand for footwear that offers enhanced support, comfort, and performance. This growing trend has led to an increased emphasis on specialized insoles designed to meet the specific needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts. The demand for insoles that provide better shock absorption, cushioning, and arch support has surged as consumers seek to prevent injuries and improve their overall performance.
With the rising popularity of fitness activities such as running, hiking, and gym workouts, the need for high-performance insoles has become more pronounced. Modern insoles are engineered to offer tailored support for different types of physical activities, thereby enhancing user comfort and reducing the risk of foot-related issues. The expansion of sports and fitness activities has driven manufacturers to innovate and produce insoles with advanced features such as moisture-wicking fabrics, antimicrobial properties, and custom orthotic designs, which cater to the evolving preferences of active individuals
For instance,
In January 2023, according to an article published by Mastercard, Europe’s exercise economy thrived in 2022, with 54% of Europeans exercising more compared to 2021, an increase of 10 points. Popular activities included hiking, swimming, and weightlifting, while 52% engaged in video gaming. Gym memberships surged, with 43% preferring paid access over free alternatives, reflecting a 21-point drop in home workouts. Sporting goods retail sales rose 15%, and a third of Europeans planned to travel abroad for live sports events in 2023
- Rising Incidence of Foot Disorders and Chronic Diseases
As the global population ages and the prevalence of conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, and obesity increase, there is a growing demand for supportive and therapeutic footwear solutions. Foot disorders, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and bunions, are becoming more common, leading individuals to seek insoles that offer enhanced support, cushioning, and pain relief.
Diabetes, in particular, is a major driver of this market as per the American Diabetic Association and The American Journal of Managed Care estimate that diabetes is directly responsible for 60% of lower-leg amputations in patients 20 years of age and older. Diabetic patients often suffer from foot-related complications such as neuropathy and ulcers. This condition necessitates the use of specialized insoles that provide adequate cushioning and reduce pressure points to prevent injuries and improve comfort. Consequently, there is a rising demand for insoles that can address these specific needs, thereby supporting the growth of the market. Similarly, the increase in obesity rates contributes to the demand for shoe insoles. Excess body weight places additional stress on the feet, leading to various foot problems and increasing the need for insoles that offer better shock absorption and distribute pressure more evenly. As obesity continues to rise globally, the market for insoles that address these issues is expected to expand accordingly.
For instance,
In February 2022, according to an article published by UT, foot and ankle problems increased due to pandemic habits. It reported a 25-30% rise in injuries from outdoor running and home exercise equipment. Common issues involved foot pain from improper footwear or barefoot walking
Opportunities
- Technological Advancements in Sole Materials
Innovations such as the development of advanced foams and gels have enhanced comfort and support, leading to increased consumer demand. Materials such as memory foam and EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) are now being used to create soles that offer superior cushioning and shock absorption, which appeals to consumers seeking better foot health and comfort. In addition, advancements in materials such as carbon fiber and advanced polymers have improved the durability and performance of soles. These materials are increasingly used in high-performance and athletic footwear, providing enhanced stability and support for various physical activities. The integration of such technologies helps address common foot issues like arch pain and plantar fasciitis, further boosting market demand.
For instance,
In February 2024, Superfeet introduced Work Cushion and Work Slim-Fit Cushion insoles, engineered for durable, anti-fatigue support. It targeted construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality workers. Work Cushion suited roomier footwear, while Work Slim-Fit Cushion fit tighter, athletic-inspired shoes. Superfeet's Adaptive Comfort Technology and Moisturewick top cover were key features. In a recent trial, 80% reported reduced discomfort and pain after 30 days
- Emergence of Customizable and Personalized Sole Materials and Products
Increasing consumer demand for footwear that offers enhanced comfort and support has led to the development of insoles that can be tailored to individual needs. Customizable insoles, which can be adjusted for specific foot shapes and medical conditions, provide a higher level of personalization compared to standard insoles. This customization allows consumers to address specific issues such as arch support, heel pain, or pressure points, leading to improved overall foot health and comfort.
Advancements in technology have enabled the creation of insoles with personalized features using 3D scanning and printing techniques. These technologies facilitate the precise measurement of foot contours and gait patterns, resulting in insoles that offer superior fit and support. The ability to personalize insoles based on individual foot structure and walking patterns not only enhances comfort but also prevents common foot-related problems, making these products increasingly popular among consumers seeking tailored solutions.
For instance,
In May 2024, according to an article published by Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd., Custom foot orthotics, tailored to individual foot structure corrected abnormal walking patterns and improved foot function. Created from various materials and designed to fit specific feet, these inserts addressed issues such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and chronic pain. Unlike generic insoles, these were prescribed by healthcare professionals based on detailed assessments. Custom orthotics also optimized performance for athletes and supported recovery post-surgery. Their targeted design offered superior comfort and effectiveness compared to store-bought alternatives.
Restraints/Challenges
- Price Sensitivity and cost Constraints
Consumers are price-conscious and the higher costs associated with advanced and custom insoles often limit their market appeal. These insoles, which incorporate advanced materials and technologies for enhanced comfort and support, which leads to higher production costs. These increased costs effects consumers, making such products less accessible to a broader market segment.
Customization adds another layer of cost, as bespoke insoles require specialized manufacturing processes and materials tailored to individual needs. This personalization often involves additional steps such as precise foot scanning and adjustments to achieve the optimal fit, further driving up costs. For many consumers, particularly those in price-sensitive demographics, the expense of customized insoles can outweigh the perceived benefits, leading to lower market uptake
For instance,
In January 2024, according to an article published by Upstep, the average cost of premade insoles ranged from USD 20 to USD 80, offering relief for mild conditions but lacking long-term effectiveness. Custom orthotics, averaging between USD 200 and USD 800, justified their higher cost due to a detailed manufacturing process, specialist doctor involvement, tailored materials, and precise customization. The greater expense of custom orthotics reflected their enhanced quality and individualized support compared to off-the-shelf options
- Concerns Regarding Production and Disposal of Synthetic Sole Materials
The manufacturing process of shoe insoles often involves the use of non-renewable resources and toxic chemicals. Many insoles are made from synthetic materials like polyurethane and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), which are derived from petroleum products. The extraction and processing of these materials contribute to environmental degradation, including greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. In addition to the environmental issues associated with the production of insoles, their disposal presents another critical concern. Most sole material are not biodegradable and can persist in landfills for decades. The non-degradable nature of many insoles leads to long-term waste management issues, contributing to landfill overflow and environmental pollution. The chemical substances contained in these products can leach into the soil and water, causing potential harm to ecosystems and human health.
For instance,
In May 2022, according to an article published by Elsevier B.V., Shoe sole fragments from various types of shoes were tested for their effects on Vigna radiata (mung bean) and soil. Fragments from sneakers increased soil bulk density but reduced water holding capacity, and affected plant growth and photosynthesis. Slippers and running shoes fragments improved plant growth but altered flavonoid content and photosynthetic factors. Trekking shoe fragments did not inhibit plant photosynthesis but had inhibitory effects through their leachate
Impact and Current Market Scenario of Raw Material Shortage and Shipping Delays
Data Bridge Market Research offers a high-level analysis of the market and delivers information by keeping in account the impact and current market environment of raw material shortage and shipping delays. This translates into assessing strategic possibilities, creating effective action plans, and assisting businesses in making important decisions.
Apart from the standard report, we also offer in-depth analysis of the procurement level from forecasted shipping delays, distributor mapping by region, commodity analysis, production analysis, price mapping trends, sourcing, category performance analysis, supply chain risk management solutions, advanced benchmarking, and other services for procurement and strategic support.
Expected Impact of Economic Slowdown on the Pricing and Availability of Products
When economic activity slows, industries begin to suffer. The forecasted effects of the economic downturn on the pricing and accessibility of the products are taken into account in the market insight reports and intelligence services provided by DBMR. With this, our clients can typically keep one step ahead of their competitors, project their sales and revenue, and estimate their profit and loss expenditures.
Footwear Sole Materials Market Scope
The market is segmented on the basis of product, sole component, sole product, applications, and end user. The growth amongst these segments will help you analyze meagre growth segments in the industries and provide the users with a valuable market overview and market insights to help them make strategic decisions for identifying core market applications.
Product
- Polyurethane
- Rubber
- SBS/Thermoplastic Elastomeric Block Copolymers
- EVA
- PVC
- Bio-Materials
Sole Component
- Innersole
- Outsole
Sole Product
- Athletic
- Non-Athletic
Applications
- Athletic
- Non-Athletic
End-user
- Men
- Women
- Kids
Footwear Sole Materials Market Regional Analysis
The market is analyzed and market size insights and trends are provided by country, product, sole component, sole product, applications, and end user as referenced above.
The countries covered in the market are Germany, France, U.K., Italy, Russia, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and Rest of Europe.
Germany is expected to dominate the market due driven by several factors, including Germany's strong manufacturing capabilities, high demand for premium footwear, and its position as a hub for technological advancements and innovation in footwear materials.
Italy is fastest growing country because of robust network of luxury fashion and footwear brands such as Prada, Gucci, and Salvatore Ferragamo, which rely heavily on high-quality sole materials.
The country section of the report also provides individual market impacting factors and changes in regulation in the market domestically that impacts the current and future trends of the market. Data points like down-stream and upstream value chain analysis, technical trends and porter's five forces analysis, case studies are some of the pointers used to forecast the market scenario for individual countries. Also, the presence and availability of global brands and their challenges faced due to large or scarce competition from local and domestic brands, impact of domestic tariffs and trade routes are considered while providing forecast analysis of the country data.
Footwear Sole Materials Market Share
The market competitive landscape provides details by competitors. Details included are company overview, company financials, revenue generated, market potential, investment in research and development, new market initiatives, global presence, production sites and facilities, production capacities, company strengths and weaknesses, product launch, product width and breadth, application dominance. The above data points provided are only related to the companies' focus related to market.
Footwear Sole Materials Market Leaders Operating in the Market Are:
- Huntsman International LLC. (U.S.)
- DOW (U.S.)
- Solvay (Belgium)
- INOAC CORPORATION (Japan)
- Asahi Kasei Corporation. (Japan)
- BASF (Germany)
- Covestro AG (Germany)
- TP Polymer Private Limited (India)
- inpvc.(India)
Latest Developments in Footwear Sole Materials Market
- In September 2024, Covestro announced the construction of a new Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPU) Application Development Center in Guangzhou, South China, following last year's launch of its largest TPU plant in Zhuhai. This center aims to enhance customer collaboration by integrating technical expertise with innovative solutions for key applications such as films, specialty cables, consumer electronics, and footwear
- In September 2023, BASF showcased innovative and sustainable solutions for the footwear industry under the theme "Say hello to the Footure!" at Simac Tanning Tech 2023, Key highlights included the mechanical recycling of PU waste to create new soles, new PU-based technologies for more comfortable and lightweight insoles, and advancements in Infinergy® E-TPU for energy return. BASF also demonstrated how combining traditional processes with 3D printing can result in futuristic footwear designs
- In October 2024, Dow and Ambipar expanded their strategic alliance to revolutionize plastic recycling in Brazil, aiming to increase polyethylene recycling from 2,000 to 60,000 tons annually by 2030. Their partnership focuses on transforming post-consumer waste into valuable products for a circular economy
- In June 2024, Dow announced its acquisition of Circulus, a North American polyethylene recycler, adding 50,000 metric tons of recycled capacity annually. This move supports Dow's 2030 goal to transform plastic waste, enhancing its circular product offerings and sustainability initiatives
- In May 2024, Dow has launched an 80,000-ton capacity expansion of its propylene glycol (PG) manufacturing facility in Map Ta Phut, Thailand, bringing total capacity to 250,000 tons annually. This move enhances Dow's presence in high-value markets like personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food, while supporting sustainable production through bio-circular feedstocks and ISCC PLUS certification
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