Global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear Market Growth 2026-2032
Description
The global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market size is predicted to grow from US$ 1644 million in 2025 to US$ 2055 million in 2032; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% from 2026 to 2032.
The thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) market refers to the production, compounding, and sale of polymer materials that feel and perform like rubber in normal use, but can be processed like plastics when heated. In chemistry terms, a thermoplastic elastomer is an elastomer that has a thermoreversible (reversible-with-heat) network, meaning the structure that gives rubber-like elasticity can “hold” at service temperature and then soften when heated for melt processing. From a standards point of view, ISO describes a TPE as a polymer or blend of polymers that has properties similar to vulcanized rubber at its service temperature, but can be processed and reprocessed as a thermoplastic. In the market, this definition matters because it sets the boundary: TPEs compete on one side with traditional thermoset rubbers (EPDM, NBR, SBR, silicone rubbers, etc.) and on the other side with flexible plastics such as plasticized PVC, EVA, and soft polyolefins.
In footwear, the most visible TPE is TPU, especially for outsoles, midsoles, and structural cushioning parts. Footwear makers like TPU because it can deliver a mix of durability (abrasion resistance), flexibility, and good rebound while still being processable by injection molding and other thermoplastic methods. Some TPU product descriptions aimed at footwear also highlight cushioning, rebound, stability, and low density for midsoles and soles. The market trend in footwear is that brands keep pushing for “better comfort with lower weight” and for more distinctive designs (complex lattice soles, mixed-hardness designs, and premium feel). TPU supports this because it can be tuned across hardness ranges and can be molded with fine detail. Another trend is sustainability pressure: footwear is hard to recycle when many materials are glued together, so more brands are experimenting with thermoplastic-based designs that can be mechanically recycled more easily. Key drivers in footwear are simple: consumers want comfort and durability; brands want fast, repeatable production; and factories want materials that work with automation and reduce scrap. TPU-based TPE solutions fit these needs because they combine performance with thermoplastic processing.
In 2025, global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear production reached approximately 829.3 K MT, with an average global market price of around US$ 2026 per MT. The global single-line production capacity ranges from 10 to 15 K MT per year. The industry's gross profit margin is approximately 20%-25%.
In footwear, the most important TPE family is usually thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), especially in soles and cushioning parts. Footwear makers like TPU because it can combine mechanical strength, abrasion resistance, slip resistance, and a wide hardness range, which helps designers balance comfort and durability across different shoe types. A clear market trend is the continued move toward lightweight and high-rebound sole systems, because consumers expect comfort without heavy shoes, and brands want soles that keep their performance over long use. To reach lower density without losing too much strength, producers and brands are using different foaming and structure ideas, including foamed TPU midsole concepts that target high resilience and comfort. Another practical trend is manufacturing efficiency: footwear supply chains want to reduce steps, labor, and variability. Some TPU midsole concepts are promoted around “one-step” or simplified manufacturing approaches that can support automation, which matters when brands scale to high volumes and face labor cost pressure.
Sustainability is also becoming a stronger driver in footwear TPE selection. Shoes are hard to recycle when many materials are glued together, so brands and material suppliers are exploring mono-material or “easier-to-recycle” designs. One example is the push for concept shoes made primarily from TPU, positioned as fully recyclable in principle because the main material family is the same. A related trend is growth in recycled-content TPU products for new shoe parts. When a supplier can offer a TPU grade with high recycled content, it helps brands claim progress toward circularity goals while still using familiar thermoplastic processing. In short, the main drivers for TPE (especially TPU) in footwear are performance (wear resistance and comfort), manufacturing (fast, repeatable molding and lower scrap), and sustainability pressure (recyclability concepts and recycled content) working together.
LP Information, Inc. (LPI) ' newest research report, the “Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear Industry Forecast” looks at past sales and reviews total world Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear sales in 2025, providing a comprehensive analysis by region and market sector of projected Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear sales for 2026 through 2032. With Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear sales broken down by region, market sector and sub-sector, this report provides a detailed analysis in US$ millions of the world Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear industry.
This Insight Report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear landscape and highlights key trends related to product segmentation, company formation, revenue, and market share, latest development, and M&A activity. This report also analyzes the strategies of leading global companies with a focus on Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear portfolios and capabilities, market entry strategies, market positions, and geographic footprints, to better understand these firms’ unique position in an accelerating global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market.
This Insight Report evaluates the key market trends, drivers, and affecting factors shaping the global outlook for Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear and breaks down the forecast by Type, by Application, geography, and market size to highlight emerging pockets of opportunity. With a transparent methodology based on hundreds of bottom-up qualitative and quantitative market inputs, this study forecast offers a highly nuanced view of the current state and future trajectory in the global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear.
This report presents a comprehensive overview, market shares, and growth opportunities of Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market by product type, application, key manufacturers and key regions and countries.
Segmentation by Type:
Styrene-based TPE (SBCs)
Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPU)
Others
Segmentation by Processing Method:
Injection Molding Grades
Extrusion Grades
Blow Molding Grades
Thermoforming Grades
3D Printing Grades
Segmentation by Physical Form:
Neat Resin
Oil-extended Compounds
Filled vs Unfilled
Reinforced Compounds
Foamed / Microcellular Grades
Others
Segmentation by Hardness:
Very Soft Gels
Soft Touch
General-Purpose Elastomeric
Semi-rigid Elastomeric
Segmentation by Application:
Canvas Shoes
Sports Shoes
Others
This report also splits the market by region:
Americas
United States
Canada
Mexico
Brazil
APAC
China
Japan
Korea
Southeast Asia
India
Australia
Europe
Germany
France
UK
Italy
Russia
Middle East & Africa
Egypt
South Africa
Israel
Turkey
GCC Countries
The below companies that are profiled have been selected based on inputs gathered from primary experts and analysing the company's coverage, product portfolio, its market penetration.
Kraton Polymers
Dynasol
LG Chem
INEOS Styrolution
Avient Corporation
Asahi Chemical
Versalis
Kumho Petrochemical
Sinopec
LCY Technology Corp
TSRC
Key Questions Addressed in this Report
What is the 10-year outlook for the global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market?
What factors are driving Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market growth, globally and by region?
Which technologies are poised for the fastest growth by market and region?
How do Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market opportunities vary by end market size?
How does Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear break out by Type, by Application?
Please note: The report will take approximately 2 business days to prepare and deliver.
The thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) market refers to the production, compounding, and sale of polymer materials that feel and perform like rubber in normal use, but can be processed like plastics when heated. In chemistry terms, a thermoplastic elastomer is an elastomer that has a thermoreversible (reversible-with-heat) network, meaning the structure that gives rubber-like elasticity can “hold” at service temperature and then soften when heated for melt processing. From a standards point of view, ISO describes a TPE as a polymer or blend of polymers that has properties similar to vulcanized rubber at its service temperature, but can be processed and reprocessed as a thermoplastic. In the market, this definition matters because it sets the boundary: TPEs compete on one side with traditional thermoset rubbers (EPDM, NBR, SBR, silicone rubbers, etc.) and on the other side with flexible plastics such as plasticized PVC, EVA, and soft polyolefins.
In footwear, the most visible TPE is TPU, especially for outsoles, midsoles, and structural cushioning parts. Footwear makers like TPU because it can deliver a mix of durability (abrasion resistance), flexibility, and good rebound while still being processable by injection molding and other thermoplastic methods. Some TPU product descriptions aimed at footwear also highlight cushioning, rebound, stability, and low density for midsoles and soles. The market trend in footwear is that brands keep pushing for “better comfort with lower weight” and for more distinctive designs (complex lattice soles, mixed-hardness designs, and premium feel). TPU supports this because it can be tuned across hardness ranges and can be molded with fine detail. Another trend is sustainability pressure: footwear is hard to recycle when many materials are glued together, so more brands are experimenting with thermoplastic-based designs that can be mechanically recycled more easily. Key drivers in footwear are simple: consumers want comfort and durability; brands want fast, repeatable production; and factories want materials that work with automation and reduce scrap. TPU-based TPE solutions fit these needs because they combine performance with thermoplastic processing.
In 2025, global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear production reached approximately 829.3 K MT, with an average global market price of around US$ 2026 per MT. The global single-line production capacity ranges from 10 to 15 K MT per year. The industry's gross profit margin is approximately 20%-25%.
In footwear, the most important TPE family is usually thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), especially in soles and cushioning parts. Footwear makers like TPU because it can combine mechanical strength, abrasion resistance, slip resistance, and a wide hardness range, which helps designers balance comfort and durability across different shoe types. A clear market trend is the continued move toward lightweight and high-rebound sole systems, because consumers expect comfort without heavy shoes, and brands want soles that keep their performance over long use. To reach lower density without losing too much strength, producers and brands are using different foaming and structure ideas, including foamed TPU midsole concepts that target high resilience and comfort. Another practical trend is manufacturing efficiency: footwear supply chains want to reduce steps, labor, and variability. Some TPU midsole concepts are promoted around “one-step” or simplified manufacturing approaches that can support automation, which matters when brands scale to high volumes and face labor cost pressure.
Sustainability is also becoming a stronger driver in footwear TPE selection. Shoes are hard to recycle when many materials are glued together, so brands and material suppliers are exploring mono-material or “easier-to-recycle” designs. One example is the push for concept shoes made primarily from TPU, positioned as fully recyclable in principle because the main material family is the same. A related trend is growth in recycled-content TPU products for new shoe parts. When a supplier can offer a TPU grade with high recycled content, it helps brands claim progress toward circularity goals while still using familiar thermoplastic processing. In short, the main drivers for TPE (especially TPU) in footwear are performance (wear resistance and comfort), manufacturing (fast, repeatable molding and lower scrap), and sustainability pressure (recyclability concepts and recycled content) working together.
LP Information, Inc. (LPI) ' newest research report, the “Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear Industry Forecast” looks at past sales and reviews total world Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear sales in 2025, providing a comprehensive analysis by region and market sector of projected Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear sales for 2026 through 2032. With Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear sales broken down by region, market sector and sub-sector, this report provides a detailed analysis in US$ millions of the world Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear industry.
This Insight Report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear landscape and highlights key trends related to product segmentation, company formation, revenue, and market share, latest development, and M&A activity. This report also analyzes the strategies of leading global companies with a focus on Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear portfolios and capabilities, market entry strategies, market positions, and geographic footprints, to better understand these firms’ unique position in an accelerating global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market.
This Insight Report evaluates the key market trends, drivers, and affecting factors shaping the global outlook for Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear and breaks down the forecast by Type, by Application, geography, and market size to highlight emerging pockets of opportunity. With a transparent methodology based on hundreds of bottom-up qualitative and quantitative market inputs, this study forecast offers a highly nuanced view of the current state and future trajectory in the global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear.
This report presents a comprehensive overview, market shares, and growth opportunities of Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market by product type, application, key manufacturers and key regions and countries.
Segmentation by Type:
Styrene-based TPE (SBCs)
Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPU)
Others
Segmentation by Processing Method:
Injection Molding Grades
Extrusion Grades
Blow Molding Grades
Thermoforming Grades
3D Printing Grades
Segmentation by Physical Form:
Neat Resin
Oil-extended Compounds
Filled vs Unfilled
Reinforced Compounds
Foamed / Microcellular Grades
Others
Segmentation by Hardness:
Very Soft Gels
Soft Touch
General-Purpose Elastomeric
Semi-rigid Elastomeric
Segmentation by Application:
Canvas Shoes
Sports Shoes
Others
This report also splits the market by region:
Americas
United States
Canada
Mexico
Brazil
APAC
China
Japan
Korea
Southeast Asia
India
Australia
Europe
Germany
France
UK
Italy
Russia
Middle East & Africa
Egypt
South Africa
Israel
Turkey
GCC Countries
The below companies that are profiled have been selected based on inputs gathered from primary experts and analysing the company's coverage, product portfolio, its market penetration.
Kraton Polymers
Dynasol
LG Chem
INEOS Styrolution
Avient Corporation
Asahi Chemical
Versalis
Kumho Petrochemical
Sinopec
LCY Technology Corp
TSRC
Key Questions Addressed in this Report
What is the 10-year outlook for the global Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market?
What factors are driving Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market growth, globally and by region?
Which technologies are poised for the fastest growth by market and region?
How do Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear market opportunities vary by end market size?
How does Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear break out by Type, by Application?
Please note: The report will take approximately 2 business days to prepare and deliver.
Table of Contents
121 Pages
- *This is a tentative TOC and the final deliverable is subject to change.*
- 1 Scope of the Report
- 2 Executive Summary
- 3 Global by Company
- 4 World Historic Review for Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear by Geographic Region
- 5 Americas
- 6 APAC
- 7 Europe
- 8 Middle East & Africa
- 9 Market Drivers, Challenges and Trends
- 10 Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis
- 11 Marketing, Distributors and Customer
- 12 World Forecast Review for Thermoplastic Elastomers for Footwear by Geographic Region
- 13 Key Players Analysis
- 14 Research Findings and Conclusion
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