PU vs EVA Insole: Which one is better for your brand?

When it comes to building a great pair of shoes, the outside might catch the eye, but it’s what’s inside that truly matters. Insoles play a significant role in that experience. Whether you’re designing running shoes, casual sneakers, work boots, or orthopedic footwear, choosing the right insole material can make a real difference.

For many brands, the choice often comes down to PU (Polyurethane) or EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate). These are two of the most popular materials in the footwear industry, and for good reason. They each bring something valuable to the table.

But which one is right for your product? Let’s dive into what EVA and PU insoles really are, how they perform, and when each material makes sense for your product line.

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1. Material overview

1.1. What is EVA?

EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) is a soft, flexible foam material that’s known for being:

• Extremely lightweight
• Shock-absorbing
• Easy to mold
• Cost-effective

EVA is especially popular in casual shoes, kids’ footwear, sandals, and lifestyle products. Its cushioning makes it comfortable for low to moderate impact use, and its affordability is a plus for brands looking to scale production or maintain low price points.

In short, EVA feels soft and light, and works great when flexibility and comfort are priorities.

1.2. What is PU?

PU (Polyurethane) is a denser, more elastic material that provides:

• Superior durability
• Strong rebound and energy return
• Better shape retention over time
• A more premium feel

PU insoles are widely used in performance footwear, such as running shoes, safety boots, and orthopedic designs. Though more expensive than EVA, PU pays off in the long term with better support, structure, and lifespan.

Simply put, PU is firm, resilient, and built for performance.

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2. Comparison: EVA vs PU insoles

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3. Which material should you choose?

The answer depends on who you’re selling to and how the footwear will be used.

Choose EVA insole if:

• You’re producing casual, affordable shoes
• You need high-volume production at a lower cost
• Lightweight and soft comfort are important to your customers
  

EVA is also great for brands that want bright colors or creative shapes, thanks to its flexibility in molding and finishing.

Choose PU insole if:

• Your customers expect long-lasting, supportive insoles
• You’re creating work boots, sports shoes, or premium footwear
• Comfort over time matters more than a soft first impression

PU is your best bet if you’re selling to professional users, runners, or customers with higher performance demands.

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4. Environmental considerations

Sustainability has become a key factor in material selection across the footwear industry. As more consumers demand environmentally conscious products, brands are actively exploring ways to reduce their ecological footprint, starting with the materials used inside the shoe.

4.1. EVA and sustainability

EVA is naturally recyclable and relatively low-impact in processing. In recent years, many manufacturers have adopted the use of recycled EVA, reusing factory scraps to create new insole foam. This approach reduces material waste and contributes to more circular production models.

4.2. PU and greener alternatives

PU is traditionally more challenging to recycle, but advancements in material science have led to the development of water-based PU systems that emit fewer VOCs during production. Additionally, bio-based PU formulations, made with plant-derived polyols, are now available as a lower-impact alternative to petroleum-based versions.

Although neither material is fully biodegradable, both EVA and PU can contribute to more sustainable insole solutions when paired with responsible sourcing, advanced manufacturing techniques, and sustainable product design

For footwear brands aiming to balance performance with environmental responsibility, understanding these options is essential to making smarter, future-focused decisions.

4.3. Aligning with ESG and Global Standards

As Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks become deeply embedded in global supply chains, footwear brands face increasing pressure to validate the environmental impact of their components, including insoles.

Both EVA and PU materials can be integrated into compliant, responsible production systems that align with internationally recognized standards and certifications, such as:

• GRS (Global Recycled Standard)
• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 (chemical safety and textile standards)
• ISO 14001 (environmental management systems)
• REACH (EU chemical regulation) and Prop 65 (California consumer safety)
  

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5. Strategic recommendations

• For entry-level or casual footwear, EVA is often the better choice due to its softness, low weight, and affordability.
• For performance-driven products, PU provides the durability and long-term comfort needed in athletic and industrial settings.
• Hybrid solutions (e.g., PU base with EVA top layer) can offer a balanced experience for brands aiming for both comfort and durability.

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Let’s help you choose the right material

Still unsure which insole material is best suited for your product line? Our team can guide you through the selection process, helping you test both EVA and PU options to find the perfect fit for your brand.

Whether you're considering EVA, PU, or a custom combination of both, choosing the right manufacturing partner is key to achieving quality, consistency, and long-term success.

At Datong Vietnam, we specialize in producing custom insoles tailored to your specific needs, including:

• Single or dual-density PU
• High-elastic EVA
• Molded and cut options
• Private label & full OEM/ODM services

With over 10 years of experience and proven export capabilities to the U.S. and European markets, we understand what it takes to deliver both performance and value, from design to production to global delivery.

Contact Datong Vietnam today to request free samples, technical consultation, or a customized quote.