ELEMENTS OF THE MIDSOLE

Question 1

composed of rubber like foam, is the core of the shoe and provides cushioning and energy return

Answer 1

midsole

Question 2

has been the standard in midsole foams for its softness, flexibility, and low production cost since the 1970s. The downside is that it becomes more rigid in cold weather and compresses over mileage, losing its bounce.

Answer 2

Ethylene vinyl acetate (both white and gray layers)

Question 3

Compared with EVA, this is less sensitive to temperature, is more durable, and has a bouncier feel. However, it is roughly 50 percent heavier than EVA.

Answer 3

polyurethane (PU)

Question 4

heated and reformed. Companies like Adidas and Saucony use a two-step process, making it beads and then fusing them to create a more durable, flexible, and bouncier foam than EVA and PU. However, it is still a heavier foam compared with EVA.

Answer 4

thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)

Question 5

gained recognition as the highly responsive foam used in the Nike Vaporfly 4%. it retains its flexibility and energy return in cold conditions and is 20 percent lighter than TPU.

Answer 5

polyether block amide (PBU)