What is the process of injection shoes?

The injection shoe process is a manufacturing method used primarily to create lightweight, durable, and cost-effective shoes, especially in sports and casual footwear. It involves injecting molten material (often plastic, rubber, or EVA foam) into molds to form the shoe's sole or entire structure.

Injection Shoes Process

1. Material Preparation

Materials like EVA, PU (polyurethane), or PVC are chosen based on the desired properties of the shoe.

The material is heated until it becomes a thick, molten liquid that can be injected.

2. Mold Design and Preparation

Molds are designed based on the shoe's specific shape and design features. They can be custom-made to include different textures, tread patterns, or branding details.

The mold is usually two-part (upper and lower), which allows the material to flow into the desired shape.

3. Injection Process

The molten material is injected into the mold cavities under high pressure.

The material fills the entire mold, creating a uniform shoe sole or shoe body.

The injected material is then left to cool and solidify, often with the help of air cooling or water cooling systems built into the machinery.

4. Mold Opening and Ejection

After cooling, the mold opens, and the shoe or shoe component is removed.

This stage may include trimming or additional detailing, such as adding holes for ventilation or slots for laces.

5. Finishing Touches and Assembly

If the sole is manufactured separately, it’s attached to the shoe upper using adhesives or stitching.

Final touches such as painting, adding decorative elements, or attaching insoles and linings are added as needed.

Benefits of the Injection Shoe Process

Cost-Effective: Suitable for mass production with lower labor costs.

Durable and Lightweight: Materials like EVA are light and absorb impact well, making the shoes comfortable.

Efficient Production: Mold-based manufacturing reduces waste and production time, allowing for high-volume output.

Common Applications

This process is widely used in the production of athletic shoes, clogs, sandals, rain boots, and various other types of footwear, especially those needing lightweight, waterproof, or flexible soles.