What is CrêPe Rubber?

Crêpe rubber is a crude form of natural rubber that is relatively inexpensive to produce and can be used for several applications. Characterized by a texture that is somewhat crinkled, it is available in several different thicknesses. Most often, this rubber is used to construct shoe soles as well as boot soles.

Using a process of coagulation creates the crinkled rubber texture of crêpe rubber. This process calls for the combination of coagulated latex with some natural form of coagulum. Often, the nature element used is some type of shell or earth scrap, as well as tree lace. The combined material is ran through large rollers that are known as crepers. Generally, each batch is ran through the crepers several times, allowing the finished product to achieve the density, thickness, and texture that is desired for a particular product.

One of the most common applications of crêpe rubber is in the manufacture of soles for footwear. Many manufacturers of rubber soles will offer at least four different types of soles, each with a different amount of thickness. The cost for the crêpe rubber soles will vary, depending on the exact ingredients used to create the rubber, and the amount of the product that is used in the final construction of the sole.

Some forms or grades of crêpe rubber are free of a high level of dirt and other contaminants. Often, these higher grades are somewhat more expensive than other blends of crepe rubber, and are used for footwear that is more upscale. Other grades of the product may contain a higher degree of contamination, but will still provide a solid sole that is both durable and budget priced. The lower grades are generally more of an earthy color and are often used for more casual footwear, such as deck shoes. In both cases, crepe rubber tends to stand up to a great deal of wear and tear, as well as providing comfort and protection for the individual wearing the shoes or boots.