Top 6 Outsole Suppliers

Are you searching for reliable outsole manufacturers to power up your footwear business? Finding the right supplier can transform your product quality and boost your profits.

As a footwear suuply chain manager with years of experience in the footwear industry, I’ve worked with countless suppliers and understand the challenges businesses face when sourcing reliable partners.

I checked numerous manufacturers and found XDS to be the best option. Their exceptional quality control, reliable production capabilities, and cost-effective pricing make them a standout choice for businesses.

In this review, I’ll introduce the 6 best outsole suppliers you can depend on. You’ll learn about their specialties, key strengths, and how they can help you scale your footwear business with confidence.

So let’s get started!

1. Industry Zone Overview

The global footwear market is fueled by regions specializing in diverse techniques to fulfill market-specific demands. From artistic luxury to large-scale affordability, these zones cater to consumers worldwide. Below is an overview of key industry regions:

• Guangzhou, China: Renowned for high-quality leather, fashion, and sports footwear.
• Quanzhou, China: Affordable supplier of casual and sports shoes for international brands.
• Wenzhou, China: Famous for leather craftsmanship and premium-quality footwear.
• Chengdu, China: Stylish, comfortable women’s shoes for fashion-focused markets.
• Jinjiang, China: Excels in sports shoe production with complete supply chains.
• USA: Custom-made, high-quality footwear for niche and premium markets.
• Germany: Precision-engineered shoes with excellent craftsmanship and quality.
• Italy: Luxurious designs blending artistry and skilled craftsmanship.
• Japan: Innovative footwear with a focus on technical excellence.
• Turkey: Affordable shoes meeting high standards for European consumers.
• Vietnam: High-volume, affordable production for mass-market footwear.
• India & Bangladesh: Large-scale, budget-friendly footwear for cost-conscious markets.
• Mexico: Reliable mid-range footwear with consistent quality and service.

2. Quick Comparison Chart

Choosing the right outsole supplier can be challenging with so many options available. The table below shows a quick comparison of the top suppliers, highlighting their strengths and important considerations to help you make an informed decision:

3. Vibram – Best for High-End Brands

City & Country: Albizzate, Italy

Established Date: 1937

Vibram has been synonymous with performance and innovation for over 80 years. They are known for introducing the first rubber mountaineering sole that delivers exceptional durability and traction. The company’s iconic yellow octagon logo is trusted by premium footwear brands and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.

Key Products: Their main products include Climbing Shoe Outsole and Trail Running Shoe Outsole. Climbing Shoe Outsoles are engineered for precision and grip, providing optimal performance on steep and rocky surfaces. Trail Running Shoe Outsoles are crafted for durability and traction, providing stability and protection on uneven and rugged trails.

Takeaway Note:

Vibram stands out for its highly innovative products, making it ideal for premium brands focused on advanced performance. However, their poor online support can be a challenge for businesses that rely on digital communication.

4. Soles by Michelin – Best for Innovation

City & Country: Clermont-Ferrand, France

Established Date: 1889

Soles by Michelin applies more than 100 years of tire technology to create high-performance footwear soles. Their soles excel in challenging environments like trail running and mountain biking, ensuring outstanding performance. I guess they contribute a lot to the increasing demand of footwear soles that has a CAGR of 3.2%, according to Business Research Insights.

Key Products: Their main products include Trail Running Shoe Outsoles and Mountain Biking Shoe Soles. Trail Running Shoe Outsoles are designed for durability and traction, offering stability and grip on rugged terrains. Mountain Biking Shoe Soles are crafted for stiffness and control, providing efficient power transfer and secure footing on pedals.

Takeaway Note:

Soles by Michelin excels with its strong after-sales support, making it ideal for brands that value customer service. However, their lack of physical stores may pose limitations for businesses needing in-person product evaluations.

5. Xin De Sheng – Best for Overall

City & Country: No.45 YanHe Road, Jinjiang City, Fujian province, China

Established Date: 2009

XDS is a leading footwear manufacturer specializing in private label production. Offering full-service solutions, they focus on delivering customized footwear for brands of all sizes. With a large production capacity, advanced facilities, and strict compliance standards, they support startups and established businesses alike.

Key Products: Their main products include Outsoles and Upper Insoles. Outsoles are designed for durability and traction, offering stability and grip across various surfaces. Upper Insoles are crafted for added cushioning and comfort, enhancing the overall fit and feel of footwear.

Takeaway Note:

XDS is a great choice for businesses looking for dependable, high-quality shoe manufacturing across multiple categories. With the capacity to produce 200–300 new styles each month and offer customized packaging, it’s ideal for brands aiming to differentiate themselves in competitive markets.

6. Wolverine – Best for Durability and Craftsmanship

City & Country: Michigan, USA

Established Date: 1883

Wolverine has built a legacy of durability and craftsmanship in footwear since the late 1800s. They are known for producing comfortable and tough footwears, they combine traditional leatherwork with innovative designs to meet global market demands.

Key Products: Their main products include Boots Outsoles and Sneaker Outsoles. Boots Outsoles are designed for durability and grip, providing support on rugged terrains and in challenging conditions. Sneaker Outsoles are crafted for flexibility and comfort, offering lightweight traction for everyday and active wear.

Takeaway Note:

Wolverine is a great choice for businesses looking for reliable OEM services and top-quality footwear. However, their products come at a higher price point, which may not suit budget-conscious brands.

7. Margom – Best for Premium Rubber Soles

City & Country: Civitanova Marche, Italy

Established Date: 1974

Margom has been a trusted producer of high-quality rubber soles and heels for decades. Originally starting as a small family business, the company has grown into a recognized name in the footwear industry, specializing in premium semi-finished rubber products while maintaining strong local and international connections.

Key Products: Their main products include Rubber Outsoles and Semi-Finished Shoes. Rubber Outsoles are designed for superior durability and slip resistance, making them ideal for various applications. Semi-Finished Shoes are crafted to allow further customization and finishing, providing a flexible solution for footwear manufacturing needs.

Takeaway Note:

Margom is ideal for businesses seeking premium products with excellent after-sales service support. However, their limited customization options might not meet the needs of brands requiring highly tailored solutions.

8. Texon – Best for Sustainable Solutions

City & Country: England, UK

Established Date: 1947

Texon is a global leader in providing technical solutions for footwear, accessories, and apparel. With a focus on sustainability, the company delivers high-quality materials that support and protect. Their commitment to eco-friendly production makes them a forward-thinking choice for modern brands.

Key Products: Their main products include Footwear Outsoles and Shoe Linings. Footwear Outsoles are designed for durability and traction, offering reliable performance across various surfaces. Shoe Linings are crafted for comfort and breathability, enhancing the fit and feel of the footwear.

Takeaway Note:

Texon is perfect for brands looking for high standards and sustainable solutions. However, their high minimum order quantity (MOQ) may not be ideal for smaller businesses or startups.

3 Tips To Consider When Choosing The Best Outsole Suppliers

When choosing the best outsole supplier, it’s important to focus on key features that impact performance, comfort, and durability. Here are essential tips to help you make the right decision for your footwear business:

• Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA): Look for suppliers offering EVA outsoles, as they are lightweight and provide excellent shock absorption. This material helps reduce foot fatigue, improves overall comfort, and enhances the user experience for long-lasting wear.

• 11-15 mm or More Thick Outsoles: Look for outsoles with a thickness of 11-15 mm or more if durability and protection are essential for your footwear. For example, if you’re producing hiking boots or work footwear, thick outsoles are vital for handling rough terrains and heavy use. They provide stability and long-term wear, increasing product value for customers.
• Textured Tread Patterns: Confirm that the supplier provides textured tread patterns for better grip and traction. For example, if your customers need shoes for slippery surfaces or outdoor adventures, textured soles will prevent slipping and enhance safety.

Conclusion

Choosing the right outsole supplier can be overwhelming, especially when high MOQs limit your options. At XDS, we specialize in meeting the needs of growing businesses with a minimum order of just 500 pairs for select styles. Our flexible production lines and added services, like photography and image editing for e-commerce, make it easier for you to scale your business.

We hope this guide to the top 6 outsole suppliers has provided valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. By partnering with XDS, you’ll benefit from quality products, low MOQs, and tailored support to grow your brand successfully. Contact us today to get started and bring your vision to life!

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For more in-depth knowledge, take a look at these recommended reads. We think you’ll find them useful:

• Top 7 Sole Factories
• Top 7 Slipper Sole Manufacturers
• Top 9 Leather Sole Manufacturers
• Top 9 Knitting Shoe Upper Manufacturer
• Top 8 Sandal Soles Suppliers

Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Don’t hesitate to contact us; we’re available around the clock to assist you.