World’s Top 20 Companies in Footwear Sole Material Market 2025: Industry Intelligence Report by Spherical Insights (2024–2035)
RELEASE DATE: Oct 2025 Author: Spherical InsightsRequest Free Sample Speak to Analyst
Description
According to a research report published by Spherical Insights & Consulting, The Global Footwear Sole Material Market Size is projected to Grow from USD 22.12 Billion in 2024 to USD 38.56 Billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 5.18% during the forecast period 2025–2035. The growing demand from consumers for footwear options that are comfortable, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly is driving this growth trajectory. The need for novel sole materials that provide improved comfort and functionality is being driven by the growing emphasis on fashion and lifestyle, as well as the increased awareness of foot health. The market landscape is also being significantly shaped by developments in material science, technology and a growing emphasis on eco-friendly products.
Introduction
The materials used to make the lower part of shoes are referred to as footwear sole material. The midsole serves as a cushioning layer between the outer sole and the insole, which makes direct contact with the ground and the wearer's foot bottom, respectively. The materials used for footwear soles are essential for any kind of sandal or shoe because they cushion the foot, protect it, and stabilise movement. The performance, comfort, durability, and appearance of footwear are all influenced by the materials used to make the soles. These materials, which have distinct uses in different footwear segments like sports, casual, and work shoes, include rubber, polyurethane, EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), thermoplastic rubber (TPR), and leather. The growing consumer preference for footwear that blends comfort, style, and functionality is one of the main drivers of growth in the footwear sole material market. Customers are looking for shoes that not only look good but also offer exceptional comfort and durability as a result of changing fashion trends and rising disposable incomes. As a result, shoe manufacturers are now investing more in R&D to create cutting-edge materials that can satisfy these consumer demands.
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Footwear Sole Material Market Size & Statistics
- The Market Size for Footwear Sole Material Was Estimated to be worth USD 22.12 Billion in 2024.
- The Market Size is Going to Expand at a CAGR of 5.18% between 2025 and 2035.
- The Global Footwear Sole Material Market Size is anticipated to reach USD 38.56 Billion by 2035.
- Asia Pacific is projected to generate the highest demand during the forecast period in the footwear sole material market.
- Europe is anticipated to grow the fastest during the forecast period in the footwear sole material market.
Regional growth and demand
Europe is estimated to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period in the footwear sole material market. The robust fashion industry and the growing demand for high-quality, sustainable footwear are driving the steady growth of the footwear sole material market in Europe. The region has a sizable market for high-end and luxury footwear because of its emphasis on design and craftsmanship, where materials like leather and cutting-edge composites are highly prized. The demand for eco-friendly and ethically sourced sole materials is being driven by European consumers' growing concerns about sustainability.
Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the highest share over the forecast period in the footwear sole material market. With a significant portion of global sales, the Asia Pacific is the market leader for footwear sole materials. Large populations, economic expansion, and the existence of important footwear manufacturing hubs in nations like China, India, and Vietnam are the main factors contributing to the region's dominance. The demand for a variety of footwear options is being driven by rising disposable incomes and shifting lifestyle preferences, which is increasing the use of creative and superior sole materials.
Top 10 Trends in the Footwear Sole Material Market
- Sustainability-Driven Materials
- Lightweight and High-Performance Polymers
- Thermoplastic Innovations
- Customization and 3D Printing
- Smart and Functional Soles
- Anti-Slip and Safety Enhancements
- Hybrid Sole Structures
- Colour and Texture Customisation
- Asia-Pacific Innovation Surge
- Circular Manufacturing Models
1. Sustainability-Driven Materials
Increased demand for recycled and bio-based materials, such as biodegradable polymers, recycled rubber, and EVA derived from algae.
2. Lightweight and High-Performance Polymers
Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) and Polyurethane (PU) continue to be popular because of their lightweight, flexible, and shock-absorbing qualities.
3. Thermoplastic Innovations
In sports and fashion footwear, thermoplastic rubber (TPR) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) are becoming more popular due to their durability and ability to be recycled.
4. Customisation and 3D Printing
3D printing is being used by brands for localised production and sole prototyping, which allows for quick design iterations.
5. Smart and Functional Soles
Combining sensors and responsive materials in athletic and medical footwear to track health, analyse gait, and provide adaptive cushioning.
Empower your strategic planning:
Stay informed with the latest industry insights and market trends to identify new opportunities and drive growth in the footwear sole material market. To explore more in-depth trends, insights, and forecasts, please refer to our detailed report.
Top 20 Companies Leading the Footwear Sole Material Market
- BASF SE
- Dow Inc.
- Covestro AG
- Huntsman Corporation
- Vibram S.p.A.
- Solvay S.A.
- Evonik Industries AG
- SABIC
- Arkema S.A.
- Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd.
- Trinseo PLC
- Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.
- INOAC Corporation
- Asahi Kasei Corporation
- Tosoh Corporation
- Lubrizol Corporation
- Bridgestone Corporation
- Hexpol AB
- BASF Elastollan
- Lanxess AG
1. BASF SE
Headquarters: Rhein, Germany
Another big player in the market for footwear sole materials is DOW Inc., which is well-known for providing cutting-edge material solutions for a range of footwear applications. The company's emphasis on sustainability and innovation propels the creation of goods with improved functionality and less of an adverse effect on the environment. With its strong global presence and research and development investments, DOW can meet changing consumer demands and stay competitive. The company's market leadership is further supported by its strategic initiatives to increase customer engagement and diversify its product offerings.
2. Dow Inc.
Headquarters: Midland, Michigan, USA
Another big player in the market for footwear sole materials is DOW Inc., which is well-known for providing cutting-edge material solutions for a range of footwear applications. The company's emphasis on sustainability and innovation propels the creation of goods with improved functionality and less of an adverse effect on the environment. With its strong global presence and research and development investments, DOW can meet changing consumer demands and stay competitive. The company's market leadership is further supported by its strategic initiatives to increase customer engagement and diversify its product offerings.
3. Covestro AG
Headquarters: Leverkusen, Germany
Covestro AG is a leading global supplier of high-performance materials for the footwear sole material market, specialising in thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), adhesives, and sustainable polymer solutions. Known for innovative products like Bayflex TPU and cardyon technology, Covestro focuses on producing lightweight, flexible, durable, and environmentally-friendly sole materials derived from alternative raw materials such as CO2 and biomass. The company supports advances in footwear design through specialised materials that offer superior cushioning, energy return, and recyclability, including solutions optimised for emerging manufacturing techniques like 3D printing. Covestro's commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles helps footwear manufacturers reduce carbon footprints while delivering high-performance soles for sports, leisure, and fashion segments globally.
4. Huntsman Corporation
Headquarters: Texas, USA
Offering a variety of polyurethane solutions that improve the comfort and functionality of footwear, Huntsman Corporation is a major rival in the market for footwear sole materials. The company's efforts to create eco-friendly materials that satisfy the needs of consumers who care about the environment demonstrate its dedication to sustainability and innovation. Huntsman maintains its position in the market thanks to its emphasis on customer-centric solutions and cooperative approach with shoe manufacturers. The company's competitive position in the global footwear sole material landscape is further strengthened by its strategic expansions and investments in emerging markets.
5. Vibram S.p.A.
Headquarters: Varese, Italy
Vibram S.p.A. is a global leader in the design and production of high-performance rubber soles for footwear, catering to markets like fashion, orthopaedics, outdoor and recreational activities, workwear, and repair. The "Carrarmato," a rubber lug sole, was created to offer superior traction and durability on a variety of surfaces. Vibram, which has production facilities in Italy, the USA, China, Brazil, and Japan, and is present in more than 120 countries, produces more than 40 million pairs of shoes a year. The business is renowned for its innovative products, such as the Vibram FiveFingers, which mimic barefoot walking, and for its ongoing innovation in sole technology, which includes eco-friendly materials. Vibram is a major player in the footwear sole material market because of its well-known quality, safety, and performance soles throughout the world.
Are you ready to discover more about the footwear sole material market?
The report provides an in-depth analysis of the leading companies operating in the global footwear sole material market. It includes a comparative assessment based on their product portfolios, business overviews, geographical footprint, strategic initiatives, market segment share, and SWOT analysis. Each company is profiled using a standardized format that includes:
Company Profiles
- BASF SE
- Business Overview
- Company Snapshot
- Products Overview
- Company Market Share Analysis
- Company Coverage Portfolio
- Financial Analysis
- Recent Developments
- Merger and Acquisitions
- SWOT Analysis
- Dow Inc.
- Covestro AG
- Huntsman Corporation
- Vibram S.p.A.
- Solvay S.A.
- Evonik Industries AG
- SABIC
- Arkema S.A.
- Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd.
- Trinseo PLC
- Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.
- INOAC Corporation
- Asahi Kasei Corporation
- Tosoh Corporation
- Lubrizol Corporation
- Bridgestone Corporation
- Hexpol AB
- BASF Elastollan
- Lanxess AG
- Others
Conclusion
The Global Footwear Sole Material Market Size is set for significant expansion, with its value expected to rise from USD 22.12 billion in 2024 to USD 38.56 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 5.18%. This growth is largely fueled by the rising consumer desire for shoes that provide a combination of comfort, longevity, and eco-friendliness. Significant market trends feature a substantial move towards sustainable materials (bio-based and recycled polymers), ongoing advancements in lightweight, high-performance thermoplastics (EVA, TPU), and the rise of 3D printing for tailored solutions. Although the Asia-Pacific area, which hosts significant manufacturing centres, is forecasted to produce the greatest demand, Europe is projected to expand the quickest, driven by its strong fashion sector and a strict emphasis on sustainable and high-quality sole material. The market is intensely competitive, led by global leaders in chemical and material science such as BASF SE, Dow Inc., Covestro AG, and Huntsman Corporation, as well as niche providers like Vibram S.p.A., all dedicated to innovative solutions that address changing consumer and functional requirements.
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