Sole Build-Up With Crepe Material

Crepe Material

• The "crepe" part of rubber crepe comes from the shape of the protector, which typically is designed to fit over the bottom part of the shoe. This covers up the normal treads that the shoe was made with to give it better traction. The rubber itself is manufactured with a crepe pattern, with crinkled lines along the bottom for better grip. Rubber, being inexpensive, flexible and easy to mold in different shapes, is an ideal sole build-up material.

Protective Soles

• Sole build-ups are created to slip onto shoes, fitting over the base, or to form a permanent lift for the sole. The thickness of the build-up is, of course, one of the key factors. Thicker soles provide greater protection and build-up, but may make the sole more difficult to use and alter the shape of the shoe too much. A balance between style, thickness and feel is necessary.

Types

• Not all build-ups are created the same way, or for the same purposes. While rubber is the material of choice, some versions are made from natural rubber while others use synthetic materials instead. Some mix in clay or other particles to give the build-up additional qualities. The ribbing, or how close the crepe wrinkles in the rubber fit together, also varies between fine and wide options. Some versions are flexible for easy removal, while others are tough, high density versions for long-lasting alterations to the shoe.

Advantages

• Sole build-ups not only increase durability and change the shape of the shoe, they also can protect delicate leather surfaces from scuffing during outdoor activities. They may be used to help increase the water resistance of shoes. Very precise versions may be manufactured to treat specific balance or orthopedic problems. For example, a build-up on one shoe can treat leg length discrepancy. Other versions can help realign stance to help correct balance problems and connected issues.