Plastic is a versatile material used in numerous products, including shoes. This is because plastic is durable, lightweight and often water-resistant. However, the use of plastic in shoes has both advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we dive deeper into this matter.
In recent years, major brands such as Adidas have led the way by introducing shoes made from upcycled plastic from the ocean. This is not only a step forward in sustainability, but also an innovation in shoe design.
One of the biggest advantages of plastic shoes is their light weight. This makes them ideal for sports activities where every gram counts. Moreover, they are resistant to wear and tear, which means they often last longer than shoes made of natural materials.
Synthetic shoes require minimal maintenance. They are easy to clean and do not require special care products, as leather shoes do.
Plastic shoes are often waterproof, making them perfect for rainy days or activities near water.
Although plastic shoes have many advantages, one of the biggest disadvantages is that they do not breathe well. This can lead to excessive sweating and unpleasant odors. For people who are prone to sweaty feet, this can be a serious problem.
Plastics can be stiffer than natural materials. Because of this, some people may find that plastic shoes are less comfortable or do not fit as well as leather shoes.
Although upcycled plastic shoes are a step in the right direction, traditional plastic shoes can have a negative impact on the environment because of their long degradation process.
When choosing shoes, it is important to think about purpose. For activities such as sports or hiking in the rain, plastic shoes can be ideal. For everyday use or those with sensitive feet, a natural material such as leather may be a better choice.
As with many things in life, plastic shoes have both advantages and disadvantages. It’s up to you to decide what best suits your needs and lifestyle.
