The Ultimate Guide to Selecting Footwear/Shoe Materials


The Ultimate Guide to Selecting Footwear/Shoe Materials

Selecting the right footwear material is a critical component for any purchasing decision related to your feet. With a variety of options available at Footwear etc., it's important to understand the different types of shoe materials and for which specific situations each is best suited. This guide will help you choose the right shoe materials for your needs, discussing the pros and cons of each, while recommending top products from Footwear etc.

Here at Footwear etc., we offer a variety of footwear types and styles, built from a wide selection of materials such as:

  • BIRKIBUC
  • BIRKO-FLOR
  • CANVAS
  • COTTON
  • EVA
  • FABRIC
  • LEATHER
  • MESH
  • NUBUCK
  • NYLON
  • PATENT LEATHER
  • POLYESTER
  • SHEEPSKIN
  • SUEDE
  • SYNTHETIC
  • WOOL

BIRKIBUC

Birkibuc is a durable synthetic material designed by Birkenstock that has a leather-like texture but is completely animal-free. It is designed to be soft to the touch and offers a good alternative to leather for those who prefer vegan products. When choosing Birkibuc shoes, consider their durability and ease of maintenance, making them a great choice for both casual and everyday wear.

Pros:

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Animal-friendly
  • Easy to clean
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Less breathable compared to natural leather
  • Can feel stiff initially
  • Limited color options

Top Products:

  • Women's Birkenstock Mayari Mocha Birkibuc
    •
  • Women's Birkenstock Papillio Arizona Platform Vegan Mocha Birkibuc
  • Unisex Birkenstock Arizona Mocha Birkibuc

    • BIRKO-FLOR

    Birko-Flor is another synthetic material developed by Birkenstock. It combines the durability of Birkibuc with a softer feel and a leather-like appearance. This material is particularly popular for its comfort and easy maintenance. When selecting Birko-Flor shoes, look for options that offer both durability and a stylish, leather-like finish.

    Pros:

    • Comfortable and soft
    • Durable
    • Easy to maintain
    • Affordable

    Cons:

    • Less breathable than natural materials
    • Can cause sweating in hot weather
    • Limited to Birkenstock products

    Top Product:

  • Men's Birkenstock Tatacoa Black Birko-Flor
    •
  • Women's Birkenstock Papillio Arizona Platform Vegan Black Birko-Flor
    •
  • Unisex Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Black Birko-Flor
  • Women's Birkenstock Arizona Eggshell Birko-Flor

    •

    CANVAS

  • Men's Ecco Yucatan Marine Nubuck

  • Women's Clarks Kassanda Lily Stone Nubuck

  • Canvas is a woven fabric made from cotton or a blend of cotton and synthetic fibers. It is lightweight, breathable, and commonly used in casual and athletic shoes. Canvas is known for its versatility and ease of customization. When choosing canvas shoes, consider their breathability and comfort, making them ideal for summer and casual wear.

    Pros:

    • Breathable and lightweight
    • Easy to clean
    • Versatile and stylish
    • Affordable

    Cons:

    • Not waterproof
    • Less durable compared to leather
    • Can stain easily

    Top Products:

     

    COTTON

    Cotton is a natural fiber known for its breathability and softness, making it an excellent choice for casual and summer footwear. Cotton shoes are typically very comfortable and gentle on the skin. When selecting cotton shoes, consider their hypoallergenic properties and biodegradability, which make them suitable for sensitive skin and eco-friendly options.

    Pros:

    • Breathable and comfortable
    • Soft on the skin
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Biodegradable

    Cons:

    • Absorbs moisture easily
    • Less durable than synthetic materials
    • Can shrink when washed

    Top Products:

    EVA

    Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) is a lightweight and flexible synthetic material used in the soles of many athletic and casual shoes. It provides excellent cushioning and shock absorption, making it a popular choice for comfort. When selecting EVA shoes, look for their lightweight nature and cushioning properties, which are ideal for athletic and everyday wear.

    Pros:

    • Lightweight and flexible
    • Good cushioning
    • Durable
    • Waterproof

    Cons:

    • Can degrade over time
    • Less support compared to some other materials
    • Can be slippery when wet

    Top Products:

    FABRIC

    Fabric encompasses a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends. It is commonly used in casual, athletic, and dress shoes for its versatility and comfort. Fabric shoes are often lightweight and easy to clean. When choosing fabric shoes, consider their breathability and versatility, which make them suitable for various occasions.

    Pros:

    • Versatile and stylish
    • Breathable
    • Easy to clean
    • Lightweight

    Cons:

    • Can be less durable
    • Not always waterproof
    • Can tear easily

    Top Products:

    LEATHER

    Leather is a natural material prized for its durability, breathability, and timeless style. It conforms to the shape of your foot, providing a comfortable fit over time. Leather shoes are known for their longevity and ability to improve with age. When selecting leather shoes, consider their durability and classic appearance, which make them a long-term investment for formal and casual wear.

    Pros:

    • Durable and long-lasting
    • Breathable
    • Comfortable fit over time
    • Classic appearance

    Cons:

    • Requires regular maintenance
    • Can be expensive
    • Not suitable for vegans
    • Can be heavy

    Top Products:

    MESH

    Mesh is a lightweight and breathable synthetic material commonly used in athletic shoes. It allows for maximum airflow, keeping feet cool and dry during intense activities. Mesh shoes are often used for running and other high-energy sports. When selecting mesh shoes, consider their breathability and lightweight nature, making them perfect for athletic and casual activities.

    Pros:

    • Highly breathable
    • Lightweight
    • Quick-drying
    • Flexible

    Cons:

    • Less durable than some other materials
    • Not waterproof
    • Can get dirty easily

    Top Products:

    NUBUCK

    Nubuck is a type of leather that has been buffed to create a soft, velvety surface. It is durable and offers a luxurious feel, often used in casual and dress shoes. Nubuck shoes are known for their stylish appearance and comfort. When selecting nubuck shoes, consider their soft texture and stylish look, which make them ideal for dress and casual wear.

    Pros:

    • Soft and luxurious feel
    • Durable
    • Breathable
    • Stylish appearance

    Cons:

    • Prone to staining and scuffing
    • Requires special care
    • Not waterproof

    Top Products:


  • Men's Ecco Yucatan Marine Nubuck
  • Women's Kizik Milan Optic White Nubuck
  • Women's Vionic Brea Camel Nubuck Leather
  • Women's Clarks Kassanda Lily Stone Nubuck
  • Men's Ecco Track 25 Low GTX Bison Leather/Nubuck
  • Men's Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX Black/Black Nubuck

    •

    NYLON

    Nylon is a synthetic material known for its durability and resistance to abrasion. It is often used in athletic and outdoor shoes for its lightweight and strong properties. Nylon shoes are popular for their resilience and quick-drying capabilities. When selecting nylon shoes, consider their durability and lightweight nature, making them suitable for athletic and outdoor activities.

    Pros:

    • Durable and abrasion-resistant
    • Lightweight
    • Quick-drying
    • Flexible

    Cons:

    • Can retain odors
    • Less breathable than some natural materials
    • Can be less comfortable over time

    Top Products:

    PATENT LEATHER

    Patent leather is a type of coated leather that has a glossy, shiny finish. It is commonly used in dress shoes for its elegant appearance. Patent leather shoes are known for their stylish look and easy maintenance. When selecting patent leather shoes, consider their stylish appearance and easy maintenance, making them ideal for formal occasions.

    Pros:

    • Stylish and elegant
    • Easy to clean
    • Durable
    • Waterproof

    Cons:

    • Less breathable than regular leather
    • Can be stiff initially
    • Can show scratches easily

    Top Products:

    POLYESTER

    Polyester is a synthetic fiber known for its strength, durability, and resistance to stretching and shrinking. It is often used in athletic and casual shoes for its performance benefits. Polyester shoes are appreciated for their durability and quick-drying properties. When selecting polyester shoes, consider their durability and quick-drying nature, making them suitable for active and casual wear.

    Pros:

    • Strong and durable
    • Resistant to stretching and shrinking
    • Quick-drying
    • Lightweight

    Cons:

    • Can retain odors
    • Less breathable than natural fibers
    • Can feel less comfortable over time

    Top Products:

    SHEEPSKIN

    Sheepskin is a soft and luxurious material often used in high-end and winter footwear. It provides excellent insulation and comfort, making it perfect for cold weather. Sheepskin shoes are known for their warmth and plush feel. When selecting sheepskin shoes, consider their insulation and luxurious comfort, making them ideal for winter wear.

    Pros:

    • Soft and comfortable
    • Excellent insulation
    • Luxurious feel
    • Breathable

    Cons:

    • Requires special care
    • Can be expensive
    • Not suitable for vegans

    Top Products:

    SUEDE

    Suede is a type of leather with a soft, napped finish. It is known for its stylish appearance and is commonly used in casual and dress shoes. Suede shoes are appreciated for their comfort and classic look. When selecting suede shoes, consider their soft texture and stylish appearance, making them suitable for casual and dress occasions.

    Pros:

    • Soft and stylish
    • Comfortable
    • Breathable
    • Lightweight

    Cons:

    • Prone to staining and scuffing
    • Requires special care
    • Not waterproof

    Top Products:

    SYNTHETIC

    Synthetic materials are man-made and designed to mimic the properties of natural materials. They are often used in a variety of footwear for their durability and versatility. Synthetic shoes are known for their affordability and ease of maintenance. When selecting synthetic shoes, consider their durability and affordability, making them a practical choice for various activities.

    Pros:

    • Durable and versatile
    • Often more affordable
    • Easy to clean
    • Water-resistant

    Cons:

    • Can be less breathable
    • May not provide the same comfort as natural materials
    • Can feel less luxurious

    Top Products:

    WOOL

    Wool is a natural fiber known for its excellent insulation and moisture-wicking properties. It is often used in winter and outdoor footwear. Wool shoes are prized for their warmth and comfort in cold conditions. When selecting wool shoes, consider their insulation and moisture-wicking properties, making them ideal for winter and outdoor activities.

    Pros:

    • Excellent insulation
    • Moisture-wicking
    • Odor-resistant
    • Soft and comfortable

    Cons:

    • Can be more expensive
    • Requires special care
    • Not suitable for vegans

    Top Products:

    Birko-Flor is another synthetic material developed by Birkenstock. It combines the durability of Birkibuc with a softer feel and a leather-like appearance. This material is particularly popular for its comfort and easy maintenance. When selecting Birko-Flor shoes, look for options that offer both durability and a stylish, leather-like finish.

      Comparison Table

      Material Pros Cons Top Products Best For

      BIRKIBUC
      • Durable and long-lasting
      • Animal-friendly
      • Easy to clean
      • Affordable
      • Less breathable compared to natural leather
      • Can feel stiff initially
      • Limited color options
      		 Birkenstock Arizona Sandals Casual wear, vegan-friendly options

      BIRKO-FLOR
      • Comfortable and soft
      • Durable
      • Easy to maintain
      • Affordable
      • Less breathable than natural materials
      • Can cause sweating in hot weather
      • Limited to Birkenstock products
      		 Birkenstock Gizeh Sandals Casual wear, vegan-friendly options

      CANVAS
      • Breathable and lightweight
      • Easy to clean
      • Versatile and stylish
      • Affordable
      • Not waterproof
      • Less durable compared to leather
      • Can stain easily
      		 Women's Merrell Siren 4 Black Mesh, Men's Teva Omnium 2 Turkish Coffee Leather Casual wear, summer footwear

      COTTON
      • Breathable and comfortable
      • Soft on the skin
      • Hypoallergenic
      • Biodegradable
      • Absorbs moisture easily
      • Less durable than synthetic materials
      • Can shrink when washed
      		 Women's Marcmarcs 81900 Cotton Socks, Men's Marcmarcs 91900 Cotton Soft Socks Casual wear, summer footwear, sensitive skin

      EVA
      • Lightweight and flexible
      • Good cushioning
      • Durable
      • Waterproof
      • Can degrade over time
      • Less support compared to some other materials
      • Can be slippery when wet
      		 Men's Hoka Speedgoat 5, Women's Hoka Challenger ATR 7 Athletic footwear, casual wear

      FABRIC
      • Versatile and stylish
      • Breathable
      • Easy to clean
      • Lightweight
      • Can be less durable
      • Not always waterproof
      • Can tear easily
      		 Women's Hoka Speedgoat 5, Men's Hoka Challenger ATR 7 Casual wear, athletic footwear

      LEATHER
      • Durable and long-lasting
      • Breathable
      • Comfortable fit over time
      • Classic appearance
      • Requires regular maintenance
      • Can be expensive
      • Not suitable for vegans
      • Can be heavy
      		 Men's Merrell Moab 3 Mid, Women's Dansko Paisley Navy Dress shoes, casual wear, formal occasions

      MESH
      • Highly breathable
      • Lightweight
      • Quick-drying
      • Flexible
      • Less durable than some other materials
      • Not waterproof
      • Can get dirty easily
      		 Women's Hoka Speedgoat 5, Men's Hoka Challenger ATR 7 Athletic footwear, casual wear

      NUBUCK
      • Soft and luxurious feel
      • Durable
      • Breathable
      • Stylish appearance
      • Prone to staining and scuffing
      • Requires special care
      • Not waterproof
      		 Women's Dansko Paisley Navy, Men's Teva Riva RP Dark Brown/Olive Casual wear, dress shoes

      NYLON
      • Durable and abrasion-resistant
      • Lightweight
      • Quick-drying
      • Flexible
      • Can retain odors
      • Less breathable than some natural materials
      • Can be less comfortable over time
      		 Women's Hoka Torrent 3, Men's Hoka Challenger ATR 7 Athletic footwear, outdoor activities

      PATENT LEATHER
      • Stylish and elegant
      • Easy to clean
      • Durable
      • Waterproof
      • Less breathable than regular leather
      • Can be stiff initially
      • Can show scratches easily
      		 Women's Dansko Paisley Black/Black Suede, Men's Teva Omnium 2 Black Synthetic Dress shoes, formal occasions

      POLYESTER
      • Strong and durable
      • Resistant to stretching and shrinking
      • Quick-drying
      • Lightweight
      • Can retain odors
      • Less breathable than natural fibers
      • Can feel less comfortable over time
      		 Women's Hoka Speedgoat 5 Cloudless/Cosmos, Men's Hoka Challenger ATR 7 Stone Blue Athletic footwear, casual wear

      SHEEPSKIN
      • Soft and comfortable
      • Excellent insulation
      • Luxurious feel
      • Breathable
      • Requires special care
      • Can be expensive
      • Not suitable for vegans
      		 Women's UGG Jaclyn Crew, Men's UGG Josephine Cloudy Grey Zebra Winter footwear, high-end casual wear

      SUEDE
      • Soft and stylish
      • Comfortable
      • Breathable
      • Lightweight
      • Prone to staining and scuffing
      • Requires special care
      • Not waterproof
      		 Women's Dansko Paisley Red, Men's Teva Riva RP Dark Brown/Olive Casual wear, dress shoes

      SYNTHETIC
      • Durable and versatile
      • Often more affordable
      • Easy to clean
      • Water-resistant
      • Can be less breathable
      • May not provide the same comfort as natural materials
      • Can feel less luxurious
      		 Men's Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX, Women's Ecco Yucatan Black/Mole Athletic footwear, casual wear

      WOOL
      • Excellent insulation
      • Moisture-wicking
      • Odor-resistant
      • Soft and comfortable
      • Can be more expensive
      • Requires special care
      • Not suitable for vegans
      		 Women's UGG Darcy Cozy Socks, Men's Thorlo LTH Hiking Moderate Cushion Crew Winter footwear, outdoor activities

      FAQs About Shoe Materials

      • How do I choose the right shoe material? Consider your lifestyle, the climate you live in, and the activities you engage in. For example, leather is great for durability and classic style, while mesh is ideal for breathability during athletic activities.
      • Are synthetic materials as good as natural materials? Synthetic materials can offer similar benefits to natural materials and are often more affordable and easier to maintain. However, they may not always provide the same level of comfort and breathability.
      • Can I wear canvas shoes in the rain? Canvas shoes are not waterproof and can get soaked easily. It's best to avoid wearing them in wet conditions unless they have been treated with a waterproof spray.
      • How do I care for leather shoes? Leather shoes require regular maintenance, including cleaning, conditioning, and polishing. Use leather-specific products to keep them in good condition.
      • Are wool shoes good for summer? Wool shoes can be worn in summer because they are moisture-wicking and breathable. However, they are more commonly used for insulation in colder weather.
      • What is the difference between nubuck and suede? Nubuck and suede are both types of leather, but nubuck is made from the outer side of the hide, making it more durable, while suede is made from the underside, giving it a softer, more velvety texture.

      Master Checklist for Selecting Your Footwear Material

      Footwear Material Decision Tree
      1. What is your primary activity?
        1. Casual Wear?
          1. Is the climate warm and dry?
            1. Do you prioritize soft texture and comfort?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Canvas
              2. Naturally Made? Cotton
            2. Do you prioritize lightweight and breathability?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Canvas
              2. Easy Maintenance? Synthetic
          2. Is the climate cold and wet?
            1. Do you need low maintenance and water-resistant materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Birko-Flor
              2. Easy Maintenance? Synthetic
            2. Do you prefer stylish and long-lasting materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Birkibuc
              2. Naturally Made? Leather
              3. Do you prefer a stylish and comfortable material? Suede
        2. Athletic Activities?
          1. Is the climate warm and dry?
            1. Do you need breathable and flexible materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Nylon
              2. Naturally Made? Mesh
            2. Do you need quick-drying and durable materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Nylon
              2. Easy Maintenance? Polyester
          2. Is the climate cold and wet?
            1. Do you need cushioned and water-resistant materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? EVA
              2. Naturally Made? Leather
            2. Do you need lightweight and flexible materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Synthetic
              2. Easy Maintenance? Polyester
        3. Formal Occasions?
          1. Is the climate warm and dry?
            1. Do you prefer durable and classic materials?
              1. Naturally Made? Leather
              2. Luxurious Feel? Nubuck
            2. Do you prefer soft and luxurious materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Birkibuc
              2. Luxurious Feel? Sheepskin
              3. Do you prefer a stylish and comfortable material? Suede
          2. Is the climate cold and wet?
            1. Do you need waterproof and stylish materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Birko-Flor
              2. Luxurious Feel? Patent Leather
            2. Do you need water-resistant and low maintenance materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Synthetic
              2. Easy Maintenance? Treated Leather
        4. Outdoor Adventures?
          1. Is the climate warm and dry?
            1. Do you need abrasion-resistant and durable materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Nylon
              2. Naturally Made? Leather
            2. Do you need breathable and lightweight materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Mesh
              2. Naturally Made? Mesh
          2. Is the climate cold and wet?
            1. Do you need durable and water-resistant materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Treated Leather
              2. Easy Maintenance? Synthetic
            2. Do you need moisture-wicking and insulated materials?
              1. Vegan-Friendly? Synthetic
              2. Naturally Made? Wool