The Global PU Sole (Footwear Polyurethane) Market is valued at approximately USD 5.61 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to expand at a promising CAGR of 7.80% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. Footwear made with polyurethane (PU) soles has gained considerable traction across fashion-forward and performance-driven segments due to its lightweight, abrasion-resistant, and cushioned properties. As consumers become increasingly conscious of comfort, durability, and style, PU soles have become a go-to material in manufacturing footwear ranging from casual wear to specialized athletic shoes. This evolution is further fueled by manufacturers’ willingness to invest in polyurethane innovations that allow better moldability, eco-friendly compositions, and higher mechanical strength—thereby addressing both aesthetic and functional requirements of modern footwear consumers.
A substantial driver propelling the PU sole market forward is the booming demand from the global footwear industry, particularly within urbanizing economies. Consumers in both developed and emerging markets are leaning toward premium yet versatile footwear, resulting in high-volume production cycles across sportswear, casual shoes, and safety boots. Furthermore, PU’s compatibility with advanced raw materials such as MDI, TDI, and polyols enhances customization and design flexibility—thus strengthening its position in the value chain. In addition, sustainability is steadily becoming a key decision-making criterion; polyurethane's recyclability and potential for bio-based alternatives are opening new avenues for green manufacturing in the footwear ecosystem.
Geographically, Asia Pacific is projected to dominate the PU sole market owing to a confluence of low-cost labor, expansive manufacturing infrastructure, and soaring domestic demand—particularly in China, India, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The region’s sprawling export networks and rising brand penetration make it an attractive hub for PU-based shoe production. North America is expected to retain steady growth, supported by high consumer preference for athletic and luxury footwear segments, as well as rising integration of sustainable materials into fashion lines. Meanwhile, Europe is increasingly pivoting toward environmentally responsible and vegan footwear materials, thus accelerating demand for PU alternatives to traditional leather. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also showcasing incremental gains due to increasing urbanization, population growth, and government-supported industrialization programs targeting textile and leather sectors.
Major market player included in this report are:
• BASF SE
• Huntsman Corporation
• Chevron Phillips Chemical Company
• Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corporation
• Croda International Plc.
• Halliburton Company
• Trican Well Service Ltd.
• Aubin Group
• Schlumberger Limited
• M&D Industries Of Louisiana, Inc.
• Baker Hughes Company
• Impact Fluid Solutions
• Dow Inc.
• Clariant AG
• Arkema S.A.
Global PU Sole (Footwear Polyurethane) Market Report Scope:
• Historical Data – 2023, 2024
• Base Year for Estimation – 2024
• Forecast period – 2025–2035
• Report Coverage – Revenue forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth factors, and Trends
• Regional Scope – North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa
The objective of the study is to define market sizes of different segments & countries in recent years and to forecast the values for the coming years. The report is designed to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the industry within the countries involved in the study. The report also provides detailed information about crucial aspects, such as driving factors and challenges, which will define the future growth of the market. Additionally, it incorporates potential opportunities in micro-markets for stakeholders to invest, along with a detailed analysis of the competitive landscape and product offerings of key players.
The detailed segments and sub-segments of the market are explained below:
By Application:
• Casuals
• Boots
• Slippers & Sandals
• Sports
• Formals
By Raw Material:
• Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI)
• Toluene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (TDI)
• Polyols
By Region:
North America
• U.S.
• Canada
Europe
• UK
• Germany
• France
• Spain
• Italy
• Rest of Europe
Asia Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• Rest of Asia Pacific
Latin America
• Brazil
• Mexico
Middle East & Africa
• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Rest of Middle East & Africa
Key Takeaways:
• Market Estimates & Forecast for 10 years from 2025 to 2035.
• Annualized revenues and regional level analysis for each market segment.
• Detailed analysis of geographical landscape with Country level analysis of major regions.
• Competitive landscape with information on major players in the market.
• Analysis of key business strategies and recommendations on future market approach.
• Analysis of competitive structure of the market.
• Demand side and supply side analysis of the market.
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