Definition: Unisoles refers to a one-piece sole on the bottom of the shoe. A unisole is vacuumed molded onto the sole rather than sewn on. Most shoes with leather soles have a separate heel attached to the sole that can easily be replaced, and the forefoot part of the sole can also be replaced. Only a thin layer of the unisole can be replaced, so if it is worn down, many times shoe repairers won’t try to replace the sole. There are some, however, who will grind the sole down and place a new sole on that will not be the same sole as the original, but if the workmanship is good, it is a perfectly valid replacement.
Most unisoles are made as toe only rockers. Since the materials (a plastic) are softer than leather, the combination of toe only rockers and softer materials make shoes more comfortable.
Benefits: Unisoles are becoming the standard for soles, replacing leather soling. They are superior in terms of comfort and less expensive to manufacture.
Text: Copyright Carole Romig 2007-2010 Image: Foot.com