What is hydrolysis?Updated 10 months ago

What is Hydrolysis?

Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction that occurs when a compound reacts with water. In the case of shoes, hydrolysis can occur when the polyurethane (PU) in the sole reacts with water vapor in the air. This reaction can cause the PU to break down and crumble, which can lead to the sole of the shoe becoming detached.

How Does Hydrolysis Affect Shoes?

Hydrolysis can affect shoes in a number of ways, including:

• Cracking or crumbling of the sole. This is the most obvious sign of hydrolysis. The sole of the shoe may start to crack or crumble, and it may eventually become detached from the upper.
• Loss of flexibility. The PU in the sole will become brittle and less flexible over time, which can make the shoe uncomfortable to wear.
• Loss of shock absorption. The PU in the sole is designed to absorb shock, but this ability will be reduced as the PU breaks down. This can lead to foot pain and fatigue.

How to Prevent Hydrolysis

There are a number of things you can do to prevent hydrolysis from affecting your shoes, including:

• Wear your shoes regularly. The more you wear your shoes, the less likely they are to be affected by hydrolysis.
• Avoid storing your shoes in damp conditions. If you have to store your shoes for a long period of time, make sure they are stored in a dry place.
• Always dry your shoes thoroughly after wearing them. This will help to prevent moisture from building up in the shoes, which can lead to hydrolysis.

If you think your shoes may have hydrolysis, there are a few things you can do:

• Inspect the sole of the shoe for cracks or crumbling. If you see any signs of damage, it is likely that your shoes have hydrolysis.
• If it's been less than 6 months from your purchase date, contact the customer care team with your order number. We may be able to offer you advice on how to repair the shoes or replace them.

Conclusion

Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction that can affect shoes over time. By following the tips above, you can help to prevent hydrolysis from affecting your shoes and extend their lifespan.