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Preferred Soles for Shoes

bsarosi

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I only came across one post on this and not a whole lot of information was provided so I figured I'd raise it to the forum.

I know most of the high-end shoemakers use leather soles. However, some cobblers I've used recommend putting rubber soles on to prevent slipping and keep water from being absorbed. (Also prevents holes building in the leather soles, although I would just re-sole at that point)

Anyways, are there any other pros to putting the rubber soles on? And do those who prefer the leather soles have specific reasons (or just preference)?

In other words, what are the pros and cons for each? As usual, I assume it comes down to preference for most, but figured maybe there's some further explanation.

Thanks in advance for your input.
 

DerekS

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personally, (and this just my humble opinion) Rubber soles shouldnt be worn with a suit....just me. Leather soles can easily be replaced when worn out...and if you are properly rotating them, they will probably out last you.
 

Master Squirrel

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I prefer plates and wheels on my shoes, but they are illegal in many and frowned upon in most places.
 

W.R.

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When comparing the two you'll find that rubber soles are superior in everything (except, maybe, that shoes with leather soles will "breathe" better). However, aesthetically, leather soles are to prefer.
 

hohneokc

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I always preferred leather soles unless it was a more casual shoe, then Vibram has some very nice soles.

However, I recently bought a couple of pair of Allen Edmonds Executive Collection shoes. They have a rubber sole, but it is a great design. The rubber sole is only the piece that is usually leather. The heels are still the stacked leather with rubber top. So from the side, it looks just like a leather sole.

And you get the comfort, durability, and water resistance of rubber.

Just my take on this subject.

Chris
 

bigbris1

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I prefer leather soles on shoes. Rubber is for sneakers which I wear, too.
 

Timeless Fashion

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I like to reserve my rubber sole shoes for poor weather and casual shoes. I hate it when I am wearing leather soled dress shoes and it is raining outside.
 

GBer

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Leather in the city. Rubber for bad weather & older cities with bad pavement or cobblestone streets

Lots of walking? Recommend rubber for comfort. Heard of double and triple leather soles, but have never tried.
 

bsarosi

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Thanks for the comments.

Can anyone elaborate more on what topys/vibrams are? It looks like a thin rubber (??) layer over the sole. Am I correct? And is it designed to do the same things as a rubber sole i.e. protect the shoes from water/wearing? Or is there some added benefit to having them?

Appreciate all the responses so far.
 

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