TPU, or Thermoplastic Polyurethane, is one of the most widely used materials in footwear — prized for its balance of durability, flexibility, and visual precision. Whether it’s used in midsoles, outsoles, heel cages, or shanks, TPU has become a foundational material in both performance and safety shoes.
Though not as springy as ETPU or as soft as EVA, TPU delivers structural reliability and wear resistance in ways that few other materials can match. It’s a go-to choice when long-term support and toughness matter.
Why Use TPU in Footwear?
TPU’s appeal lies in its versatility. It offers the elasticity of rubber combined with the strength of engineered plastic — meaning it can be molded into sleek designs without sacrificing function. It’s used across a range of footwear categories, from high-end running shoes to heavy-duty work boots.
Key reasons to use TPU in footwear:
- Excellent abrasion resistance
- Stable support under load
- High tear strength and tensile durability
- Visual detail and finish control (great for transparent or colored parts)
- Low compression set compared to EVA
Key Technical Properties of TPU
Depending on formulation, TPU offers a broad range of performance. Typical midsole/outsole TPU values include:
- Tensile Strength: 15–25 MPa
- Elongation at Break: 300–500%
- Density: 1.10–1.25 g/cm³
- Shore Hardness: 65–95A (can be tuned for flexibility or rigidity)
- Compression Set: <20% under normal load conditions
- Abrasion Resistance: Excellent — low volume loss under DIN tests
- Temperature Range: Performs from –20 °C to +80 °C
TPU can be injection molded, extruded, or used in multi-part assemblies, making it extremely adaptable to outsole and midsole design.
TPU vs EVA and ETPU
Compared to EVA, TPU is heavier and stiffer — but offers far greater resistance to wear, compression, and deformation. While EVA is ideal for soft, low-impact applications, TPU holds its shape and support far longer under stress.
Compared to ETPU, standard TPU offers less energy return but more stability. Where ETPU is springy and light, TPU is structured and durable — making it a good choice for heel supports, toe guards, midfoot wraps, and shanks.
Where You’ll See TPU in Footwear
TPU is often used in:
- Outsoles: For precision grip zones, abrasion resistance, and color blocking
- Heel Cages: For stability and ankle support
- Midsole Wraps: To control torsion and improve lateral stiffness
- Toe Caps & Reinforcements: In safety and work shoes
- Shanks: As part of a supportive underfoot structure
Its visual versatility (matte, glossy, clear) also makes it a favorite in design-forward applications where aesthetics matter as much as performance.
Final Thoughts
TPU is one of the most durable, tunable, and structurally supportive materials available to footwear designers. While it may not deliver the soft cushioning of ETPU or the weight savings of EVA, it offers dependable performance, longevity, and moldability that few materials can match.
When your product demands form with function — especially in technical, workwear, or hybrid performance categories — TPU is often the foundation material that makes it all possible.
