Cup Soles vs. Vulcanized Soles - The Debate Continues.

In recent years the most debated part of a skateboarding shoe, that we have heard, has always been the difference between the cup sole, and the vulcanized sole.

To those not familiar with the terms or the difference. Let us explain.


Vulcanized:

Skate shoes actually have whats considered "Twice" Vulcanized soles. Which means the rubber is baked first prior to assembly and then steam baked after making them tougher and more durable.

Examples: Chucks, Vans

Cup Soles:

Cup soles are generally considered "Cold Process Outsoles" They are usually made with rubber and probably a CM EVA which is foamed material for comfort and fit. The EVA acts as a lightweight cushion layer and the rubber layer then patterned over it.

Examples: Lakai Mariano 2, eS Accel


So whats the big difference? Well to skateboarders its everything!

The top reason a skateboarder would choose one or another would be feel or the lack thereof. With a vulcanized sole its pretty much all rubber from midsole on and the only real comfort comes in the form of an insole. Whereas the cup sole has a bit more of a spongy feel due to the EVA / TPF so while there is much more comfort and less heel bruising with a cup sole, you also lose a bit of that feel and at times you feel a bit disconnected from your board.

Another thing that these soles affect is the price of the shoe. In general Vulcanized shoes are cheaper since they can be made directly at the assembly factory, whereas Cup Soles are made by a specialized outsole manufacturer adding to the cost of the shoe.

So which one do you choose? Well its America and its your choice! Some skaters swear by cup and some swear by vulc. Some have even stated that depending on what they are skating, they actually change shoes to assist them. Small jumps, flat ground they go vulcanized. Big rails and ledges they tend to go to cup soles for that added cushion support.

At the end of the day many make due with their choices and learn to "customize" their shoes based on their preference. If you love the feel of vulcanized soles, we suggest you invest in a good pair of insoles to lessen the shock and fatigue your feet will go through. As for cup soles, I have found that wearing them around and allowing the cup sole to really break in prior to skating in them has been beneficial since the shoe has broken in enough and I dont end up with a torn up shoe with a just broken in sole.


NOTE: Please take the time to take our Vulcanized or Cup Sole poll located to the right of the blog! Thanks!