Rubber shoes are becoming increasingly popular for their sleek, edgy design and eco-friendly attributes. They’re also perfect for those who work in a chemical industry or mines and require a heavy-duty, industrial-grade shoe that will stand up to tough conditions.

Compared to leather, rubber soles are lightweight and provide excellent traction for walking on a variety of surfaces. They’re also slip-resistant, so they’re perfect for wearing in wet weather or snow.

You can also find rubber soles that are non-marking, which means they won’t leave a mark on traditional wood floors and tiled surfaces or cause damage to them. It’s easy to tell if your rubber-soled shoes are non-marking: simply dent them with a nail or your thumb and see how long they last without leaving a mark.

The soles of rubber-soled shoes are made from different materials, such as plastic or synthetic materials, depending on the style and purpose of the shoe. The most common form of rubber soles is polyurethane (PU), but you can also find PVC and crepe rubber.

It’s important to understand that PU and PVC are not natural materials in the same way as rubber is, so it’s not always a wise choice to go for them over natural rubber soles. And even though they’re often recycled, they’re still made from a synthetic material that has the potential to be harmful to our environment in some ways.

In addition, PU and PVC aren’t biodegradable, meaning they’ll take years to break down in landfills. The other big concern with these materials is that they can easily become contaminated with toxins during the manufacturing process, such as mercury.

Another drawback to synthetic materials is that they are often more expensive than their natural counterparts. That can mean a higher price tag on your shoes.

Alternatively, you can opt for rubber soles that are certified as organic by the Global Recycle Standard or Forest Stewardship Council. These are more durable, but they will not be as aesthetically pleasing as naturally sourced rubber.

They can also be more difficult to clean and care for. It’s a good idea to keep your rubber-soled shoes out of the rain or snow and dry them on a warm, sunny day if you want to make sure they last as long as possible.

As with any other type of footwear, it’s crucial to choose a brand that has ethical production practices in place. This is especially true for those that produce their shoes in factories that are located far from pollution-prone areas.

You can also look for shoes that are made using environmentally-friendly materials such as leather and wool, or those that use natural dyes to colour their textiles. In addition to ensuring the safety of workers, these companies have a responsibility to protect the environment and help prevent deforestation and soil erosion.

In addition, you can find shoes that are made from materials that are renewable, such as bamboo or jute. This is particularly the case with shoes that are designed for children, which can be a great way to promote environmental sustainability in a fun, playful way.