What plastics raw materials is best choice for slippers strap

What plastics raw materials is best choice for slippers strap?

1. TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) / TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)

Advantages: 

Better tactile feel: Generally softer than PVC and has a rubber-like elastic touch, with better skin-friendliness. 

Better environmental performance: Generally free of controversial plasticizers such as phthalates, 

easier to recycle and reuse, and some models are biodegradable. 

High transparency: It can achieve a "crystal bottom" effect like gelatin, and does not tend to turn yellow. 

Disadvantages: 

Higher cost: The prices of raw materials are usually higher than those of PVC. 

Durability is slightly inferior: The flexibility resistance and tear resistance may be slightly lower than those of 

high-quality modified PVC. After long-term wearing, it may be more prone to aging and cracking. 

Higher processing requirements: More stringent requirements for injection molding temperature and process control. 

2. EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate Copolymer)

Explanation: EVA is mainly used for the soles of shoes, being very lightweight, soft and elastic. However, 

it is also sometimes used for the one-piece molding of entire slippers (including the straps). 

Advantages: 

Extremely light: The weight is extremely light. 

Extremely soft: Has a foot feel like that of foam. 

Non-toxic and odorless: Environmentally friendly and safe. 

Disadvantages: 

Poor support: Too soft, lacking in support, prone to collapse and deformation. 

Not durable: Poor in wear resistance and tear resistance, prone to tearing, not suitable for use 

as a sole material for individual carrying straps. Usually used as the material for one-piece slippers. 

3. Natural rubber / Silicone rubber

Advantages: 

Top-quality touch and environmental friendliness: With excellent softness, 

elasticity and anti-allergy properties, it is the top choice for high-end and eco-friendly brands. 

Extremely durable: It has excellent resistance to aging and flexing, and has a long service life. 

Excellent anti-slip performance: Even after coming into contact with water, 

it can still maintain excellent anti-slip properties. 

Disadvantages: 

The cost is extremely high: The costs of raw materials and processing are the highest among all materials. 

Complex processing: Usually requires vulcanization molding, which is more time-consuming and energy-consuming than injection molding. 

Heavier in weight: It is heavier than PVC and TPR. 

Design limitations: The colors are not as rich and vibrant as those of PVC. 

4. Textiles (canvas, velvet, etc.) or Leather

Advantages: 

Extremely comfortable: Wicks away sweat, breathable, skin-friendly, especially suitable for long-term wear. 

Fashionable appearance: Capable of creating various textures and styles, often used in fashion slippers. 

Disadvantages: 

Poor durability: not waterproof, not wear-resistant, prone to dirt and difficult to clean. It will age easily with prolonged exposure to sunlight. 

Structural issue: It is impossible to mold the connecting tongue for the shoe sole like plastic. 

It needs to be sewn or glued to the plastic part, and the connection point is a vulnerable area. 

Cost varies: High-quality leather has a high cost but is durable; ordinary textiles have a low cost but are not durable.

5. Modified PVC 

Comparison of Materials for Flip-Flop Straps

Expanded Details on Advantages & Disadvantages

• Modified PVC: The plasticizers (e.g., DOP, DOTP) allow precise tuning of flexibility.

  The main environmental issue involves certain phthalate plasticizers,

  though the industry is shifting to safer alternatives.

• TPR/TPE: A popular PVC alternative perceived as more sustainable.

  However, some grades can be less resistant to long-term wear and UV exposure, leading to cracking.

• EVA: Prized for its foam-like, cushioned feel but lacks structural integrity for a strap alone.

  Best suited for soft, one-piece designs where the strap and sole are molded together.

• Natural Rubber: Offers superior grip, especially when wet. The high cost comes from raw material sourcing

  and the energy-intensive vulcanization process required to cure it.

• Textiles/Leather: Provide the best breathability but are susceptible to water damage,

  odor, and wear from friction. The connection point between the fabric strap and the sole is often a structural weakness.