The shoes upper material plays a crucial role in determining the comfort, durability and style of the shoes. As there are various materials to choose from, understanding the characteristics of each material can help you make a wise decision when purchasing shoes.
Leather
Leather remains one of the most popular materials for shoe uppers. This is because of its timeless charm and superior quality. Leather is derived from animal skins. It presents a natural and luxurious appearance. It can be worn formally or casually. It is renowned for its durability, breathability, and the ability to adapt to the shape of the feet over time.
Among the shoe upper materials, there are several types of leather to choose from. These include full-grain leather, top-grain leather and split leather. Full-grain leather is the highest quality and has the best durability. Top-grain leather has slightly poorer durability, but still performs well. Split leather is more affordable, but it has weaker resistance to wear and tear and ripping.
Synthetic Materials
In recent years, synthetic materials have gained popularity due to their affordability and wide range of applications. These materials are artificially manufactured and can imitate the appearance and texture of leather. Therefore, for those with limited budgets, they are an economical alternative.
PU and PVC are two commonly used synthetic materials. PU is renowned for its softness, durability, water resistance and stain resistance. While PVC boasts excellent water resistance and flexibility. Both of these materials can be embossed with various textures and patterns to imitate the appearance of leather.
TPU
TPU is a hard yet elastic plastic material. It has excellent supporting and protective properties. It is often used in the manufacturing of shoe uppers to provide additional structure and durability. Especially in areas that require reinforcement.
TPU has outstanding resistance to wear, tear and chemical substances. Therefore, it is highly suitable for use in sturdy and durable outdoor footwear.
When it comes to choosing the shoes upper material, there are numerous options available. Each material has its own unique characteristics and advantages. Understanding these materials can help you find the perfect shoes that meet your needs.