Shoe Factory Tour: How are Vans and Converse Vulcanized Shoes are made

Shoe Factory Tour: How are Vans and Converse Vulcanized Shoes are made

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Vulcanized Rubber Sole Construction

In the vulcanized shoemaking process, the rubber shoe outsole parts are assembled onto the lasted upper before the rubber is completely cured. With the sole attached, the entire shoe must be heated in a vulcanizing oven. The shoe must be heated to around 110˚C/230˚F for 80 minutes.

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The Vulcanized Construction Process Behind Vans Shoes

Have you ever wondered about the secret behind the iconic Vans shoes? Well, the answer lies in the age-old technique of vulcanized shoemaking. The story of Vans began in 1966 when the Van Doren brothers, Paul and James, established The Van Doren Rubber Company. Over the subsequent four decades, they not only cultivated a cult following for their brand but also expanded their production to factories in California, China, and Vietnam, all while adhering to the vulcanized shoemaking process.

But what exactly does "vulcanize" mean? It's the pivotal step in transforming raw rubber into the resilient and durable material that defines Vans footwear. This process involves heating raw rubber to cure it, creating crosslinks within the rubber compound, effectively bonding it together. Before vulcanization, rubber is stretchable, gummy, and prone to tearing. However, once the vulcanization process is complete, the rubber becomes robust, resilient, and ready to withstand the test of time.

Here's a closer look at how Vans shoes are made using the vulcanized construction method:

Step 1: Assembly of Rubber Outsole Parts
In the vulcanized shoemaking process, the various parts of the rubber shoe outsole are carefully assembled onto the lasted upper. This crucial step ensures that all components fit together seamlessly before the rubber transforms.

Step 2: Heating in a Vulcanizing Oven
With the sole securely attached to the upper, the entire shoe is placed into a vulcanizing oven. The temperature inside the oven must reach approximately 110°C (230°F), and the shoe must remain there for a duration of 80 minutes. It's important to note that this level of heat is essential for vulcanizing the rubber sole properly. However, it's also hot enough to melt certain materials, such as nylon and polyester fabrics, rendering them unsuitable for vulcanized shoes. Similarly, specific types of foam, like EVA and PE, are susceptible to damage from the heat. This imposes restrictions on the materials that footwear designers can use.

Step 3: Material Choices for Uppers
To ensure the shoe's integrity during the vulcanization process, uppers must be constructed from heat-resistant materials. Popular choices include suede, leather, and cotton canvas, along with metal hardware. These materials not only withstand the high temperatures of the vulcanizing oven but also contribute to the distinctive look and feel of Vans shoes.

In conclusion, the magic behind Vans shoes lies in their vulcanized construction method. This meticulous process, developed and perfected over decades, is the key to creating the iconic, durable, and stylish footwear that Vans enthusiasts worldwide know and love. So, the next time you slip on a pair of Vans, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and heritage that goes into making each and every shoe.

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